Launch an Open-End Investment Fund in Laval Today
This page gives you a practical roadmap to starting an open-end investment fund in Laval. Learn how to navigate the 11 requirements, from initial formation and regulatory filings to the licenses and oversight needed to operate legally. We break down the permits, typical startup costs, and a realistic timeline so you can move from concept to launch with confidence. Whether you’re starting from scratch or expanding an existing business, this guide helps you take concrete steps today.
Here’s what you’ll learn: a clear, step-by-step view of the 11 requirements per NAICS 525910 for open-end investment funds, the licenses you’ll need, ongoing compliance and reporting expectations, and the typical costs involved—legal, filing, and regulator fees. We also map out a practical timeline, show how to prepare a strong application package, and share tips to expedite approvals in Quebec’s market. Plus, you’ll get practical checklists, sample forms, and a suggested 90-day plan to keep you on track.
Why Laval? A growing financial services scene, close proximity to Montreal, and a cost-friendly business climate help your fund launch stay agile while you tap local talent and support networks. This combination positions your fund to attract investors and grow within Quebec’s supportive financial ecosystem.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Laval is Trust Company License. This license is legally required to offer or manage open-end investment funds in Quebec, and you cannot legally operate without it. In addition, a general Business Licence is also required to run any business in Laval, and this non-negotiable step should be secured early so you can begin serving clients with confidence.
Mandatory Operational Requirements: Beyond licenses, you must set up essential compliance steps. Anti-Money Laundering (Securities) controls are mandatory, including customer due diligence and ongoing reporting. If your fund structure is a partnership, you need Partnership Registration; if you structure as a corporation, you must pursue Quebec Corporation Registration. If you employ people, you will also need Quebec CNESST Employer Registration for workers’ compensation. These items ensure you operate safely, legally, and with proper accountability from day one.
Business Registration & Tax: You’ll also handle key tax and registration numbers. Obtain a Business Number (BN) for federal purposes, plus a Quebec Enterprise Number (NEQ) and a Registraire des entreprises registration (REQ). Depending on your activities, you may also need GST/HST Registration and Payroll Deductions Registration to manage sales taxes and payroll taxes correctly.
Encouragement: Start by confirming the licensing paths for the Trust Company License and the Business Licence, then map out your legal structure, AML controls, and payroll plans. With these registrations in place, you’ll be well-positioned to launch your Laval open-end investment fund responsibly and with confidence. If you tackle these steps in a structured plan, you’ll reduce surprises and move smoothly toward launch.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a open-end investment funds in Laval:
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in Ville de Laval. Apply to Ville de Laval 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 Ville de Laval 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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Trust Company License RequiredTrust companies must be licensed by federal (OSFI) or provincial regulators and comply with fiduciary standards, capital requirements, and trust administration rules. OSFI Trust and Loan Companies Act licensing. Federal trust company charter. Capital requirements. Contact OSFI: 1-800-385-8647.
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Quebec Enterprise Number (NEQ) Registration RequiredRegistration of business with the Quebec Enterprise Registrar. Register with Registraire des entreprises du Québec: 1. Access quebec.ca/entreprises services 2. Complete declaration of registration online 3. Pay registration fee ($38 sole proprietorship, $367 corporation) 4. Receive NEQ (Numéro d'entreprise du Québec) Annual registration fee: $35 (exempt first 2 years). Annual update declaration required. 30-day deadline for changes.
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Quebec Business Registration (REQ - Registraire des entreprises) RequiredAll businesses operating in Quebec must register with the Registraire des entreprises du Québec (Quebec Enterprise Registrar). This includes sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations. Registration provides a Quebec Enterprise Number (NEQ) which is required for all business activities including banking, licensing, and tax purposes. Unlike other provinces, registration is mandatory for ALL businesses in Quebec, not just those with a business name different from the owner. Registration can be completed online. Annual declarations must be filed to keep the registration current. Register with Registraire des entreprises within 60 days of starting business. Required for sole proprietors operating under trade name, partnerships, and corporations. $39 for sole proprietorship, $60 for partnership. Receive NEQ (Quebec Enterprise Number).
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Partnership Registration ConditionalRequired if operating as partnership. Registration of general or limited partnerships in Quebec. Register partnership with Registraire des entreprises: 1. Complete declaration of registration 2. Provide partner information 3. Submit registration 4. Pay registration fee General and limited partnerships. NEQ assigned upon registration. Annual update declaration required.
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Anti-Money Laundering (Securities) ConditionalRequired for securities activities. Securities dealers and fund managers must implement AML/ATF programs, conduct client identification and verification, report suspicious transactions to FINTRAC, and maintain compliance. FINTRAC registration and AML/ATF compliance for securities dealers. Know Your Client (KYC). Customer Due Diligence (CDD). Suspicious Transaction Reporting. Annual review. Training requirements. Contact FINTRAC: 1-866-346-8722.
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Quebec Corporation Registration ConditionalRequired if incorporating in Quebec. Incorporation of a company under Quebec law. Incorporate through Registraire des entreprises: 1. Conduct name search (NUANS) 2. Prepare articles of incorporation 3. Submit through quebec.ca or registry office 4. Pay incorporation fee ($367) Annual reporting required. Must file annual update declaration. Federal incorporation alternative available ($200).
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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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Quebec CNESST Employer Registration (Workers Compensation) ConditionalRequired if you have employees in Quebec. Employers in Quebec must register with the CNESST (Commission des normes, de l'équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail) and maintain coverage for workers. CNESST provides insurance coverage for workplace injuries and occupational diseases under Quebec's workers' compensation system. Most employers are required to register within 60 days of hiring their first worker. Employers pay contributions (premiums) based on their business activity classification and assessable payroll. Register with CNESST within 60 days of hiring first employee. CNESST provides workplace health and safety coverage. Premium rates based on industry classification. Annual declaration of wages required by March 14.
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