Launch an International Affairs Business in Richmond, BC Today
This page is your practical starting point for launching an International Affairs business (NAICS 928120) in Richmond, BC. It breaks down the eight requirements you’ll need to meet, the permits and registrations you’ll file, and what costs and timelines to expect—from initial filings to launch day. It’s designed to be clear, actionable, and easy to follow, even if you’re new to Canadian business setups.
What you’ll learn: a practical checklist of the eight requirements, the permits and registrations you’ll likely need (including basic business name registration and tax registrations), typical cost ranges, and a realistic timeline you can align with your planning. We’ll map out steps from registration to readiness for operations, so you’ll know what to expect at each stage and how to stay compliant.
Richmond’s strategic location makes this a smart move for international work. Proximity to Vancouver’s global business ecosystem, ports, airport connectivity, and a diverse talent pool create ideal support for a growing international affairs practice, all within a welcoming local startup scene.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Richmond, BC, is the Business Licence. This license is legally required by the City of Richmond to run most business activities, and you cannot operate without it. Without a valid licence, you could face fines, orders to cease activities, or other enforcement actions, so securing this first is non-negotiable.
Next come mandatory operational requirements that cover health, safety, and legitimate permissions. This includes WorkSafeBC Coverage and Registration to protect workers on the job. If your work involves government programs or sensitive contracts, you may also need Security Clearance and Screening and to meet Government Program Administration Standards. These items ensure you’re following safety rules and accountability expectations when delivering services.
On the financial and registration side, you’ll need the right numbers to work with government and tax authorities. This means registering for a Business Number (BN) with the Canada Revenue Agency, and, if you operate as a sole proprietor or partnership in BC, completing BC Business Name Registration. You’ll also handle GST/HST Registration if your business crosses the tax threshold, and Payroll Deductions Registration if you hire employees. These registrations streamline invoicing, tax reporting, and payroll compliance, and they keep your business in good standing with authorities.
Take the next steps with a simple plan: confirm your Richmond licence requirements, set up your BN with the CRA, apply for GST/HST registration if applicable, and arrange WorkSafeBC coverage. If you anticipate government work, start preparing any necessary security clearances and program standards early. You’ve got this—little by little, you’ll have a compliant, ready-to-operate business.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a international affairs in Richmond:
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Richmond. Apply to City of Richmond 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 Richmond Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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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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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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Security Clearance and Screening ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Government personnel in security-sensitive positions must undergo security clearance, background checks, and maintain confidentiality protocols. Federal security clearance and screening. CSIS background checks. Reliability status, Secret, Top Secret levels. Contact Treasury Board: 1-877-636-0656.
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Government Program Administration Standards ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Government program administrators must comply with accountability frameworks, performance reporting, audit requirements, and service delivery standards. Government program administration standards for federal contractors. Service standards. Reporting requirements. Performance measurement. Contact Treasury Board: 1-877-636-0656.
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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.
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