Launch Your International Affairs Venture in Saint John Today
This page offers a practical, step-by-step guide to launching an International Affairs venture in Saint John (NAICS 928120). Get a clear overview of the 10 requirements, the permits you may need, typical startup costs, and a realistic timeline so you can plan with confidence and stay compliant from day one. You'll also find quick-start checklists and next steps.
You'll learn exactly what the 10 requirements cover, how to assemble the right documents, where to apply for permits, and what costs you should budget for—registration, licensing, insurance, and initial compliance steps. We also map out a step-by-step timeline from planning through launch, with practical milestones to track progress.
Saint John offers a welcoming, practical base for international work: a growing port city with strong government and business networks, access to Atlantic Canada markets, and attainable startup costs. Local programs, grants, and a pro-business climate help you move from planning to launch smoothly and stay connected with regional partners.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Saint John is Business Licence. This license is legally required to operate within the city, and you cannot run your business without it—it's non-negotiable. Think of it as the essential permission you must obtain before doing any commercial activity in Saint John.
Operationally, focus on health, safety, and permits, and group related requirements so you’re prepared. If you have employees, you must secure New Brunswick WorkSafeNB Employer Coverage to protect your team. Depending on the nature of your work, you may encounter Security Clearance and Screening requirements for certain government-related contracts, and you should align with Government Program Administration Standards when you participate in government programs. If your business structure involves a partnership, you’ll also need Partnership Registration.
Business Registration & Tax covers how you officially set up and report your activity. You’ll likely need New Brunswick Business Name Registration (SNB) if you’re operating under a name other than your own, and NB Corporation Registration if you’re forming a corporation. You’ll also need a Canada Revenue Agency Business Number (BN) for tax accounts and program reporting. GST/HST Registration applies if you reach the thresholds or engage in relevant activities, and Payroll Deductions Registration is required if you’re withholding payroll taxes for employees.
You’re taking the right first steps. To move forward, start with the City of Saint John’s licensing process to secure your Business Licence, then align your tax and registration needs (BN, SNB, SNB-name, NB corporation) with CRA and the NB registry. Gather documents, set a realistic timeline, and consider a quick consult with a local business advisor to keep you on track. You’ve got this—with a clear plan, you’ll be compliant and up and running smoothly.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a international affairs in Saint John:
-
Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Saint John. Apply to City of Saint John 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 Saint John Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
-
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).
-
New Brunswick Business Name Registration (SNB) RequiredBusinesses in New Brunswick must register their business name with Service New Brunswick if operating under a name other than the owner's legal name. This applies to sole proprietorships, partnerships, and trade names. Registration provides legal recognition and is required for business operations and licensing. Registration can be completed online through SNB Online. Business name registrations for sole proprietorships and partnerships must be renewed every 5 years. To register a business name in New Brunswick: 1. Conduct name search ($13.80) 2. Complete registration through SNB Online 3. Pay $112 registration fee (includes Royal Gazette) 4. Receive certificate of business name 5. Renew every 5 years ($62) 6. Report any changes as required
-
Partnership Registration ConditionalRequired for partnerships. Registration of partnerships. Register through Province of New Brunswick Corporate Registry or business services: 1. Conduct name search if applicable 2. Complete registration application 3. Submit required documents 4. Pay registration fees Contact Province of New Brunswick government services for specific requirements and fees. Annual reporting may be required.
-
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.
-
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.
-
NB Corporation Registration ConditionalRequired if incorporating in New Brunswick. Incorporation under NB law. Register through Province of New Brunswick Corporate Registry or business services: 1. Conduct name search if applicable 2. Complete registration application 3. Submit required documents 4. Pay registration fees Contact Province of New Brunswick government services for specific requirements and fees. Annual reporting may be required.
-
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.
-
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.
-
New Brunswick WorkSafeNB Employer Coverage ConditionalRequired if you have employees in New Brunswick. Employers in New Brunswick must register with WorkSafeNB (Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission) and maintain coverage for workers. WorkSafeNB provides insurance coverage for workplace injuries and occupational diseases. Most employers are required to register, with limited exceptions. Registration must occur within 10 days of commencing business operations or hiring the first worker. Employers pay assessments based on their classification unit rate and assessable payroll. To register with WorkSafeNB: 1. Determine if you're in a mandatory industry with 3+ workers 2. Register with WorkSafeNB online or by phone 3. Report assessable payroll annually 4. Pay premiums based on industry rate ($1.18/100 avg 2024) 5. Maintain coverage and report workplace injuries 6. Experience rating affects rate (+80% to -40%)
Ready to Launch Your Business?
Starting a business can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. Our AI-powered business matcher can help you understand exactly what you need for your specific situation.
Try Our AI Business Matcher Get Expert Help
No credit card required • Takes 2 minutes
Browse Other Business Sectors
Explore business requirements in other industries: