Register a partnership (general)
A partnership, also called a general partnership, is the most common type of partnership formed in Nova Scotia. Most partnerships need to register with Registry of Joint Stock Companies to operate in Nova Scotia.
Register your partnership.
Most partnerships need to register to operate in Nova Scotia.
You don’t have to register your partnership if you’re:
- a partnership registered in New Brunswick
- partners using only your personal names (for example, John Smith & Jane Smith don’t need to register, but John Smith & Associates needs to register)
- a partnership that has the sole purpose of farming or fishing
A partnership, also called a general partnership, is the most common type of partnership formed in Nova Scotia.
A partnership doesn’t have a separate legal status from its owners. All profits go to the partners, but they alone are responsible for any losses, liability and taxes. Profits are taxed as personal income.
All of the partners have unlimited liability in a partnership. In most circumstances, each partner can bind the whole partnership to a contract or business deal.
Public record
Information you file with Registry of Joint Stock Companies is available to the public.
Eligibility
Most partnerships need to register to operate in Nova Scotia.
How to register
- Reserve a name for your business (Registry of Joint Stock Companies needs to approve name).
- Complete the Partnership Registration Form online.
- Check the registration form for details on all required supporting documents.
- Include payment with your registration.
- Submit your completed registration, supporting documents and payment.
- If you meet all the requirements, Registry of Joint Stock Companies issues a Certificate of Registration and Business Number.
How long it takes
It should take 1 to 2 weeks to get the Certificate of Registration and Business Number. It can take longer if more information is needed or if your registration hasn’t been filled in correctly.
Cost
| Activity | Fee |
|---|---|
| Registration | $68.55 |
| Renewal | $68.55 |
Payment options
Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), debit card, cheque, money order, cash. Make your cheque or money order payable to the Minister of Finance. Payment options may vary depending on how you register.
When you pay online you need to pay the fee by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Visa Debit, Debit Mastercard).
Before you start
Make sure you have:
- approved name for your partnership from Registry of Joint Stock Companies
- name and address of recognized agent
- all partners available to sign the form, including an officer or director on behalf of each corporate partner
Register online
When you register online you need to create an account or sign in. You also need to upload any supporting documents in PDF format, including required signatures.
You can use the Application for Registration of a Business Name, Sole Proprietorship or Partnership in Nova Scotia Form (PDF 614 kB) if you’re unable to register online. Send your completed application and payment by mail. Or visit Registry of Joint Stock Companies or Access Nova Scotia.
Renewal
You need to renew your registration every year. You should get a renewal notice by mail or email before the renewal date. It’s your responsibility to renew on time.
Related information
Related legislation
- Limited Liability Partnerships Registration Regulations
- Partnership Act (PDF)
- Partnerships and Business Names Registration Act
- Partnerships and Business Names Registration Act Regulations
- Province of New Brunswick Exemption Designation - Corporations Registration Act
- Schedule of Fees Payable to the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies - Partnership and Business Names Act