Launch Your All Other Support Services Business in Vancouver
This page shows you how to start an All Other Support Services business (NAICS 561990) in Vancouver. It delivers a practical, step-by-step overview—from registrations and licenses to permits and upfront costs—so you can move confidently from idea to launch. It's designed for first-time owners and seasoned pros alike, with a clear, doable path.
What you’ll learn: a six-item requirements overview to get set up in Vancouver (registration with BC Registry, City of Vancouver business license, GST/HST registration, WorkSafeBC coverage, appropriate insurance, banking and bookkeeping setup), plus permits you may need and the typical costs. You’ll also see a realistic timeline from filing to opening.
Why Vancouver works: The city’s thriving small-business scene, access to diverse clients in tech, film, and hospitality, and a supportive local ecosystem make this a natural fit for All Other Support Services. You’ll benefit from city and provincial resources, plus programs from Small Business BC to help you launch confidently and grow.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Vancouver is Business Number (BN) Registration. This number is issued by the Canada Revenue Agency and you cannot legally operate a business in Canada without it. The BN is the single identifier you’ll use for taxes, payroll, and dealings with government programs, so getting it right from the start is non-negotiable and essential to stay compliant.
Mandatory Operational Requirements: In addition to the BN, you’ll need to handle health, safety and local permits. Make sure you have WorkSafeBC coverage and registration if you employ people, so your workplace is safe and compliant. In Vancouver, you’ll also need a City of Vancouver Business Licence to operate in the city; depending on your location and services, you may require additional permits or zoning checks. These steps protect workers and keep you legally allowed to operate in your area.
Business Registration & Tax: If you’re operating as a sole proprietor or partnership under a name other than your own, register the BC Business Name with the provincial registry. For taxes, register for GST/HST if your taxable revenue meets the threshold (and you can voluntarily register sooner). If you have employees, set up Payroll Deductions with the Canada Revenue Agency to manage income tax, Canada Pension Plan contributions, and Employment Insurance.
Encouragement: With these core steps in place, you’ll be positioned to operate legally and confidently. Start by obtaining your BN, then secure your Vancouver Licence and any required permits, register your business name if applicable, and set up GST/HST and payroll as needed. If you’d like, I can help map a simple, priority-based checklist and point you to the right local resources.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a all other support services in Vancouver:
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Business Number (BN) Registration RequiredA 9-digit Business Number is required for most businesses operating in Canada. It is used to interact with the Canada Revenue Agency and other federal programs. Required for GST/HST, payroll, corporation income tax, and import/export accounts. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) at canada.ca. Takes 15-30 minutes. As of November 3, 2025, online registration is MANDATORY for new BNs - phone registration no longer available. You'll need: business name, address, owner SIN, business type, and start date. BN (9-digit number) issued INSTANTLY online. Available 21 hours/day, 7 days/week (closed 3-6am ET for maintenance).
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Vancouver. Apply to City of Vancouver for Business Licence: 1. Determine business category 2. Complete business licence application 3. Submit required documents (ID, lease, zoning confirmation) 4. Pay application and annual fees 5. Await approval and receive licence Contact City of Vancouver Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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BC Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership) RequiredRegistration of sole proprietorship or partnership business names with BC Registries Register sole proprietorship or partnership at bcregistry.gov.bc.ca. Name reservation: $30 (standard) or $100 (priority 1-2 days). Registration fee: $40. Total: ~$70. Name reserved for 56 days after approval. Registration is continuous (no renewal required). No name protection for sole proprietorships. Personal names operating under own name do not require registration. Contact BC Registries: 1-877-526-1526.
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GST/HST Registration ConditionalRequired if annual taxable revenue exceeds $30,000 (small supplier threshold). Taxi/ride-share drivers must register regardless of revenue. Businesses with gross revenues over $30,000 in any single quarter or over four consecutive quarters must register for, collect, and remit GST/HST. Small suppliers (under $30,000) may register voluntarily. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when your revenue exceeds $30,000 in any 4 consecutive quarters (small supplier threshold). Takes 15-30 minutes. You MUST register within 29 days of exceeding threshold and start charging GST/HST immediately on the sale that made you exceed it. Need your BN (or get one simultaneously). As of Nov 3, 2025, online registration is mandatory. Voluntary registration available anytime for input tax credits.
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Payroll Deductions Registration ConditionalRequired if you pay salaries, wages, or other remuneration to employees. Must register before first pay period. Required if you have employees. You must withhold Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Employment Insurance (EI), and income tax from employee wages and remit to CRA. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when you hire your first employee. Takes 15-20 minutes. You'll need your Business Number (BN) or can get one simultaneously. Payroll account (RP) added to your BN instantly. Register BEFORE your first pay date. Required to deduct CPP, EI, and income tax from employee wages. For 2025: CPP rate 5.95%, EI employee rate $1.66/$100 insurable earnings.
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WorkSafeBC Coverage and Registration ConditionalRequired if you have workers in BC. Workers compensation insurance coverage through WorkSafeBC for employers in British Columbia WorkSafeBC coverage required for most BC employers. Average base premium rate: 1.55% of assessable payroll ($1.55 per $100). Register online at worksafebc.com. Apply 30 days before starting business or hiring workers. Processing: ~10 business days. Premium rates vary by industry classification (514 classification units). COR certified employers eligible for 10% rebate. Contact: 604-276-3100 or 1-888-967-5377.
Funding & Grants
Available funding programs that may apply to your all other support services:
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Three-stream grant program for Nunavut-based artists, businesses, and organizations: (1) Getting Started/Arts Creation/Training — supports education, training, art supplies, equipment; (2) Arts and Culture Development — supports collaborative arts initiatives, exhibitions, shows, and touring; (3) Infrastructure Development — supports studios and cultural tourism infrastructure. Annual call for proposals.
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Provided contributions to settlement, employment, and community organizations delivering programs addressing employment barriers for racialized newcomer women, including work placements, mentorships, job counselling, and support for gender- and race-based discrimination. Program renewal ended in 2025; no new open call as of early 2026. Over 2,200 racialized newcomer women were served …
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