How long does it take to incorporate federally compared to provincially in Ontario?

Both federal and Ontario provincial incorporations can typically be completed quickly, though processing times vary and can change based on demand and government capacity.

Ontario provincial incorporations filed online through the Ontario Business Registry are generally processed quickly — often on the same business day for straightforward numbered corporations. Named corporations require a NUANS report, which takes some time to obtain, but once the report is in hand and your articles are filed, confirmation is usually fast.

Federal incorporations filed online through Corporations Canada have historically been processed within a few business days for most applications. Corporations Canada also offers an expedited service for an additional fee when you need the certificate faster.

In practice, for most business purposes, both paths are fast enough that processing time is rarely the deciding factor. If you need a corporation urgently (for example, to close a real estate deal or sign a time-sensitive contract), an Ontario numbered corporation filed online can be obtained very quickly. If you need something that specific day, talk to a business lawyer who can manage the filing efficiently.