One of the most common mistakes entrepreneurs make when incorporating a Named Company in Canada is confusing a
NUANS preliminary search with the
official NUANS name reservation report.
They are not the same thing.
A preliminary search cannot be submitted with incorporation documents. An official NUANS name reservation report can.
Understanding the difference will help you avoid delays, rejected filings, and unnecessary costs.
The Most Common NUANS Mistake
Many business owners:
- Run a preliminary NUANS search
- See that their name appears available
- Attempt to incorporate using that result
This can result in rejection.
Why? Because a preliminary search is not an official report and does not include the required report number that accompanies an official NUANS name reservation report.
If you are incorporating a
Named Company, you must obtain the official NUANS name reservation report.
Quick Comparison: Preliminary Search vs Official NUANS Report
Here is the simplest way to understand the difference:
| Feature |
Preliminary NUANS Search |
NUANS Name Reservation Report |
| Official document for incorporation |
No |
Yes (Named Company) |
| Provides an official report number |
No |
Yes |
| Instant results |
Yes (varies by provider) |
Processed and delivered |
| Validity period |
Not applicable |
90 days |
| Trademark checking |
Yes (typically exact matches) |
Yes (more comprehensive comparison) |
In short:
- A preliminary search is an informal availability check.
- The official NUANS name reservation report is the required document for incorporating a Named Company.
What Is a NUANS Preliminary Search?
A NUANS preliminary search is a name availability check that helps you see whether your proposed corporate name appears to conflict with existing names.
It is typically used:
- When brainstorming names
- Before ordering the official report
- To reduce the risk of rejection
A preliminary search:
- Does not generate an official report number
- Cannot be submitted with incorporation documents
- Does not reserve your name
It is simply an early screening tool.
Are Preliminary NUANS Searches Free?
Availability and pricing vary by provider.
Some service providers charge for preliminary NUANS searches, and results may not always be instant.
At Opstart, the preliminary NUANS search is:
- Free to use
- Provides instant online results
- Available without registration
This allows entrepreneurs to check name availability immediately before deciding whether to order the official report.
What Is a NUANS Name Reservation Report?
A NUANS name reservation report (often simply called a “NUANS report”) is the official name comparison document required when incorporating a
Named Company federally or in Ontario.
The official report:
- Includes a unique report number
- Must be submitted with incorporation documents
- Is reviewed by government examiners
- Is valid for 90 days from the date issued
If you are incorporating a Named Company, this document is mandatory.
Without it, your incorporation will not be approved.
When Should You Use a Preliminary Search?
A preliminary NUANS search is helpful when:
- You are still deciding on a company name
- You want quick feedback before ordering an official report
- You want to avoid ordering multiple official reports
- You are comparing several name options
It is optional but practical.
Many entrepreneurs run a preliminary search first, then order the official report once they are confident in their chosen name.
When Do You Need the Official NUANS Report?
You need the official NUANS name reservation report if you are:
- Incorporating a Named Company federally
- Incorporating a Named Company in Ontario
- Changing the name of an existing corporation
If you are incorporating a
Numbered Company, a NUANS report is not required because the government assigns the corporate number automatically.
Does a Preliminary Search Reserve Your Name?
No.
A preliminary search does not reserve or protect your name. It only reflects availability at the time of the search.
Only the official NUANS report can be submitted as part of your incorporation process, and final approval depends on government review.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To prevent delays, avoid these common misunderstandings:
- Submitting a preliminary search instead of the official report
- Assuming a preliminary search guarantees name approval
- Allowing the NUANS Report to expire before incorporating (The report is valid for 90 days)
- Assuming a preliminary search provides the same level of review as the official NUANS report
If a NUANS name reservation report expires before incorporation is completed, you can simply order a new report to obtain another 90-day validity period.
While a preliminary search may identify exact matches, the official NUANS report includes broader comparison methods and is the document reviewed during incorporation approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a preliminary NUANS search enough for incorporation?
No. A preliminary search is not an official document and cannot be submitted with incorporation documents.
Does a preliminary search reserve my company name?
No. It only checks name availability at that moment.
How long is a NUANS name reservation report valid?
A NUANS name reservation report is valid for 90 days from the date it is issued.
Can I skip the preliminary search?
Yes. It is optional. You can order the official NUANS report directly if you are ready to incorporate.
Final Thoughts
A NUANS preliminary search and a NUANS name reservation report serve different purposes.
A preliminary search helps you check availability quickly (and may identify exact matches), but it is not an official document and cannot be submitted with incorporation documents.
The official NUANS name reservation report is the required document for incorporating a
Named Company federally or in Ontario.
Understanding the distinction ensures you complete the correct step at the correct time — and avoid unnecessary rejection or delay.
