Launch Your Surrey Apprenticeship Training Business with Confidence
This page gives you a practical, step-by-step guide to starting an apprenticeship training business in Surrey, British Columbia, under NAICS 611513. You'll find a clear overview of the six essential requirements, the permits you'll need, and the typical costs to get up and running. We map out the path from business registration to your first cohort, with links to the right local resources to stay compliant and on track.
What you’ll learn: the six requirements you must meet to operate in Surrey—business registration in BC; becoming an approved training provider with Industry Training Authority (ITA); securing a compliant training facility and equipment and obtaining any building or safety permits; hiring and verifying qualified instructors; establishing insurance and WorkSafeBC coverage; and building a credible curriculum and employer partnerships. We also cover typical costs (facility, licensing, wages, insurance) and a realistic timeline for approvals and launch (weeks to a few months).
Surrey's growing trades scene and close proximity to Vancouver's networks make it a smart place to launch apprenticeship training. A local talent pool, supportive business programs, and strong demand for skilled trades can help you recruit learners and partner with employers right away.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating an apprenticeship training business in Surrey is the Business Number (BN) Registration. This federal identifier is how you interact with the Canada Revenue Agency and other government programs, and you cannot legally operate without it. Without BN, you cannot open bank accounts, issue receipts, or sign contracts. This is non-negotiable.
Mandatory Operational Requirements: In addition to the BN, you’ll need permits and safety coverage to run a training site. Secure a Surrey municipal Business Licence to operate legally in the city. You’ll also need WorkSafeBC coverage and registration to protect your apprentices and staff and to comply with workplace safety rules. If you plan to use a name other than your own, complete BC Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership).
Business Registration & Tax: Alongside the BN, ensure your BC Business Name Registration (if applicable). If your annual taxable supplies meet the threshold, register for GST/HST. If you hire employees or apprentices, you’ll also need Payroll Deductions Registration for income tax withholding, CPP/EI, and related payroll obligations. These steps help you file taxes properly and stay compliant.
Encouragement: The good news is these steps are manageable. Start with the BN, then apply for the Business Licence and WorkSafeBC coverage, register your business name if needed, and set up GST/HST and payroll registrations as your team grows. For help, contact Surrey’s small-business resources or a local accountant who knows apprenticeship training. You’ve got this—take it one step at a time.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a apprenticeship training in Surrey:
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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 Surrey. Apply to City of Surrey 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 Surrey 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 apprenticeship training:
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Delivered via the Protocol for Agreements for Minority-Language Education and Second-Language Instruction (2024–25 to 2027–28). Total federal investment: over $1.4 billion over four years. Funding flows through provinces and territories to school boards and post-secondary institutions. Quebec negotiates a separate bilateral agreement. Not directly accessible to non-governmental applicants.
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CATF provides financial support to not-for-profit organizations dedicated to professional arts training. Funds up to 70% of eligible expenses for most organizations and up to 100% for Indigenous and equity organizations. Annual intake with a May 15 deadline. Applicants must have maintained full-time administrative support for at least 3 years.
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UTIP funds unionized organizations to develop and deliver apprenticeship training, promote trades careers, and support underrepresented groups in the skilled trades. Projects run up to 3 years; Sustainable Jobs stream funds up to $10M.
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