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Start a business in Quebec online — $497 all-inclusive incorporation cost, the best price to start a business: Quebec Inc., federal Canada Inc. or offshore company

Everything to start your business in Quebec,
in Canada and beyond

Frequently asked questions about incorporating in Quebec

Answers to the questions we hear most often.

Numbered company or official name: do I have to choose a name right away?

No. A numbered company is not only created faster, but is fully operational from the moment it's created, and you can add a business name later at no cost (e.g. 1234-5678 Québec inc. doing business as “Coiffure Sylvain”).

Should I wait until I land a first contract before incorporating?

The decision is up to you, but it's important to note that some contracts are only offered to companies that are already incorporated — and sometimes even ones with a few years of existence.

Do clients really require an incorporated company?

Often, yes: many staffing agencies and large companies prefer to contract with an incorporated company rather than an individual, to reduce their administrative risk. For many consultants and self-employed workers, it's even the trigger for incorporating.

What are the advantages of incorporating?

Incorporating strengthens your credibility, opens up contracts reserved for companies, and limits your personal liability. It also offers greater tax flexibility as your revenue grows.

I'm still an employee: can I incorporate anyway?

Yes, nothing prevents an employee from incorporating a company for work on the side. However, check your employment contract (exclusivity or non-compete clauses).

Minimum requirements to start a business in Quebec

Age

18 or older to act as director or officer of a share corporation in Quebec.

Identity

Valid government-issued ID. Canadian citizenship is not required — anyone can incorporate in Quebec.

Address

A Quebec address for the registered office — a residential or virtual address is accepted.