How to Do a NUANS Search Online (Step-by-Step Guide)
If you are incorporating a Named Company in Canada, you will need a NUANS report.
Fortunately, you can complete a NUANS search online in just a few minutes.
This guide explains exactly how to do a NUANS search online, when you need one, and the difference between a preliminary search and an official NUANS Name Reservation Report.
What Is a NUANS Search?
A NUANS search (Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search) compares your proposed corporate name against:
- Existing corporations
- Registered business names
- Canadian trademarks
- Similar sounding names
If you are incorporating a Named Company federally or in Ontario, an official NUANS name reservation report must be submitted with your incorporation documents.
If you are incorporating a Numbered Company, a NUANS report is not required.
Step 1: Decide if You Need a NUANS Report
You need a NUANS report if you are:
- Incorporating a Named Company federally
- Incorporating a Named Company in Ontario
- Changing the name of an existing corporation
You do not need a NUANS report if you are incorporating a Numbered Company.
Step 2: Run a Preliminary NUANS Search (Optional but Recommended)
Before ordering the official report, it is often helpful to run a NUANS preliminary search.
A preliminary search:
- Provides instant results
- Identifies obvious name conflicts
- May show exact trademark matches
- Helps reduce the risk of rejection
It does not generate an official report number and cannot be submitted for incorporation.
At Opstart, the preliminary NUANS search is free and provides instant online results, allowing you to check availability before purchasing the official report.
Step 3: Order the Official NUANS Name Reservation Report
Once you are confident in your proposed name, you can order the official NUANS name reservation report online.
The official report:
- Includes a unique, 9 digit, reservation number
- Must be submitted with incorporation documents
- Reserves your proposed business name
- Is valid for 90 days from the date issued
At Opstart:
- Official NUANS reports are $48 + HST
- Preliminary searches are instant and free
- Official reports are typically delivered, by email, within 15 minutes
Step 4: Submit the NUANS Report With Your Incorporation
When incorporating a Named Company, the official NUANS report must be included with your incorporation documents.
Government examiners review the report to confirm that the proposed name meets approval standards.
If approved, your corporation can proceed under that name.
How Long Is a NUANS Report Valid?
An official NUANS name reservation report is valid for 90 days from the date it’s issued.
If the report expires before incorporation is completed, you can simply order a new report to obtain another 90-day reservation.
Common Questions About Doing a NUANS Search Online
Can I do a NUANS search myself online?
Yes. NUANS searches can be completed online through authorized service providers.
Is a preliminary NUANS search enough for incorporation?
No. A preliminary search is optional and cannot be submitted for incorporation. You must obtain the official NUANS name reservation report.
Does a NUANS search reserve my company name?
An official NUANS name reservation report reserves your proposed corporate name for 90 days from the date it is issued.
During this 90-day period, the name is reserved for the purpose of incorporation.
However, final approval of the corporate name still depends on government review when your incorporation documents are submitted.
If the 90-day validity period expires before incorporation is completed, a new NUANS report must be obtained.
How fast can I get a NUANS report?
At Opstart, our free NUANS Preliminary Search delivers instant results online. And official NUANS Name Reservation Reports are delivered within 15 minutes, by email.
Final Thoughts
Doing a NUANS search online is a straightforward process.
Start by determining whether you are incorporating a Named Company or a Numbered Company.
If you are incorporating a Named Company, run a free preliminary search to reduce risk and save money, then order the official NUANS name reservation report before submitting your incorporation documents.
Completing these steps correctly helps ensure your corporate name is approved without unnecessary delay.
