How Long Is a NUANS Report Valid in Ontario?

An official NUANS Name Reservation Report reserves your proposed corporate name for 90 days from the date it is issued.

During this period, the name is reserved for the purpose of incorporation. When you submit your incorporation documents, the proposed name is reviewed as part of the approval process.

In Ontario, incorporation processing is typically immediate once submitted properly, so the main timing risk is usually not government delay—it’s simply waiting too long to file after ordering the report.

What Happens If Your NUANS Report Expires?

If the 90-day validity period expires before you complete your incorporation, the NUANS report can no longer be used.

In that case, you can simply order a new NUANS Name Reservation Report to obtain another 90-day validity period.

There is no penalty for ordering a new report. It is a normal part of the process if your timeline changes.

Does a NUANS Report Automatically Renew?

No. NUANS name reservation reports do not automatically renew.

If your report expires, you must order a new NUANS report before incorporating a Named Company under that name.

When Should You Order a NUANS Report?

For most entrepreneurs, the best approach is to order your NUANS name reservation report when you are ready to proceed with incorporation within the next few weeks.

If you are still deciding between multiple name options, it can help to run a preliminary NUANS search first to reduce the chance of selecting a name that conflicts with existing corporations or trademarks.

Once you have selected your preferred name and you are ready to file, ordering the official NUANS report ensures you maximize the usefulness of the 90-day reservation period.

Common Timing Mistakes to Avoid

Most NUANS timing issues are easy to avoid once you know how the 90-day window works. Here are a few common pitfalls:

• Waiting too long after ordering the report and letting the 90-day validity period expire
• Assuming the report renews automatically (it does not)
• Confusing a preliminary NUANS search with the official report (only the official report reserves the name for 90 days)

If your report expires, the solution is simple: order a new NUANS report to obtain a fresh 90-day reservation period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I extend a NUANS report beyond 90 days?

No. If you need more time, you must order a new NUANS name reservation report to obtain another 90-day validity period.

Does the 90-day period start when I order it or when I receive it?

The 90-day period begins on the date the NUANS report is generated (the date shown on the report).

Does a preliminary NUANS search expire?

A preliminary NUANS search is not an official document and does not have a 90-day validity period. Only the official NUANS name reservation report is valid for 90 days and can be submitted for incorporation.

Final Thoughts

A NUANS Name Reservation Report is valid for 90 days.

If you are incorporating a Named Company, the simplest strategy is to order your NUANS report when you’re ready proceed within the 90-day window.

If your report expires, you can simply order a new NUANS report to obtain another 90-day reservation period and continue the incorporation process.