Get Your Ontario Certificate of Incorporation Copy in Minutes
Need a corporate certificate Ontario, a duplicate incorporation certificate Ontario, or just an Ontario business incorporation lookup? Here’s how to obtain a copy of the Certificate of Incorporation quickly and precisely. More than mere paperwork, this document is the legal foundation upon which your company rests.
If you misplace it, opening bank accounts or signing contracts can be stalled. But there’s nothing to worry about. This Bizincs guide walks you through the step-by-step procedure on how you can get your Ontario certificate in minutes.
What is a Certificate of Incorporation?
A Certificate of Incorporation is the formal document issued by the government upon registering your corporation in Ontario. It certifies that your business is officially acknowledged, correctly registered, and permitted to function. This document has not altered from the initial submission and is frequently needed for banking, contracts, and obtaining investments. It consists of:
- Official company name: It is the name of your corporation as legally registered and must be placed on all forms, certificates, and official documents.
- Corporation number: This number serves as a distinguishing identity assigned by the government so that the same name cannot be registered under different businesses in legal and administrative records.
- Incorporation date: The date on which your corporation was legally registered under Ontario or federal business laws.
- Authorized share structure and directors: This covers the kinds of shares the company is authorized to issue and the persons who are authorized to act as its directors on incorporation.
Why You Might Need a Duplicate Incorporation Certificate in Ontario?
You will need an incorporation certificate whenever a formal proof of your corporation is required. Here are some common instances wherein you may need to get yourself a duplicate incorporation certificate in Ontario:
- Lost or damaged original certificate
- Required by a bank or financial institution
- For license, vendor, or grant applications
- Asked for an audit or legal review
How to Get Your Ontario Incorporation Copy?
You can obtain a copy quickly by using the ServiceOntario incorporation copy via the Ontario Business Registry or through a trusted intermediary.
Step 1: Sign In to the Ontario Business Registry
Use a One-Key ID or Sign-In Partner to log into the ServiceOntario portal.
Step 2: Search Your Corporation
Do the Ontario business incorporation lookup by searching:
- Your corporation’s legal name
- Ontario Corporation Number (OCN) or
- Business Identification Number (BIN)
Step 3: Request the Certificate
When your profile comes up:
- Select “Get Certificate of Incorporation Copy.”
- Pick either an electronic PDF or a printed copy.
- Next, you have to submit the standard delivery fee ($20–$30) through ServiceOntario.
Step 4: Receive Your Certificate
- The authority will email you the PDF version within minutes.
- The printed copy takes nearly 5 to 10 business days to arrive.
Check Out: A Step-by-Step Guide to Incorporating Your Business in Canada
How to Get a Certificate of Incorporation for a Federal Corporation
If your business stands as a federal corporation under Corporations Canada, here is how you can request your Certificate of Incorporation:
Step 1: Visit Corporations Canada’s Online Filing Centre
Access your federal corporation records by going to the Corporations Canada website.
Step 2: Look for Your Corporation
Search for your business on the portal using either its corporation number or legal name.
Step 3: Choose the Certificate Type
Choose between uncertified (usually $1/page) and certified (around $35).
Step 4: Submit Your Request
Complete payment and confirmation processes. Choose whether to download the PDF or receive it through the mail.
Step 5: Retrieve Your Certificate
The PDF copy is typically sent within minutes. Once the certified mail copy is ready, you will get it delivered within several business days.
Check Out: Federal Vs Provincial Business Registration in Canada
Tips for a Smooth Retrieval of the ServiceOntario Incorporation Copy
Here are some tips to make the ServiceOntario incorporation copy retrieval process smooth, fast, and error-free. Following these can help you avoid delays, compliance issues, or repeated requests later.
| Pro Tip | Why It Matters |
| Use your OCN/BIN when searching | Speeds up lookup and avoids errors |
| Secure your PDF and mailed copy | Keeps backups for smooth operations |
| Order a profile report if the records have changed | Ensures your records are current |
| Check for future renewals or filings | Stay compliant and avoid non-compliance penalties |
Wrapping Up.
Obtaining your incorporation copy from ServiceOntario is a straightforward process. It can be carried out through the official Ontario Business Registry. You can download a PDF version right away or request a printed copy to be mailed by providing your Ontario Corporation Number (OCN) or registered business name.
Whenever your business details have been amended since incorporation, it would be better to request a Corporate Profile Report so that records stay updated.
Need help? Bizincs makes the process faster and stress-free, ensuring your documents are accurate, compliant, and always within reach.
FAQs
- How long will it take to obtain a duplicate certificate?
A PDF copy is usually sent within minutes after you submit the request. If you opt for a printed version, it usually takes about 5 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.
- Can I order it if I lost my company key?
Yes, you can still search for your corporation using your business name, Ontario Corporation Number (OCN), or Business Identification Number (BIN) on the Ontario Business Registry.
- Is the copy from ServiceOntario free?
No, ServiceOntario generally charges between CAD 20 to 30 per certificate copy. For federally incorporated businesses, uncertified copies cost around CAD 1 per page, while certified copies are approximately CAD 35.
