A NUANS (Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search) search is a comprehensive search that compares a proposed Alberta or extra-provincial corporation name or a proposed non-profit name to a database of Alberta and federal corporation names.

• The person who ordered the report uses it to decide whether they should proceed with their proposed name for an Alberta or extra-provincial corporation.
• In the case of a non-profit organization, Corporate Registry will examine the report to decide whether or not the proposed name can be used in Alberta.
• In most cases, a NUANS report is required for incorporation, amalgamation, name change, or revival of an Alberta corporation or non-profit organization and for registration, amalgamation, name change, and reinstatement of an extra-provincial corporation.
• The following situations do not require a NUANS report:
  • When the proposed name is a ’number name’ for an Alberta or extra-provincial corporation.
  • When the proposed name is for a federal (Canada) corporation that is extra-provincially registering in Alberta.
  • When the proposed name is for an Alberta corporation that is reviving within three years of it dissolution.
• The NUANS report reserves the proposed name for 90 days. The complete report, whether an original or fax copy, must be submitted with the incorporation/registration details and must be less than 91 days old.
• Another type of report, the Business Name Report, focuses on Alberta partnership and trade names (business names) and does not reserve the proposed business name. Corporate Registry recommends this report be purchased and reviewed prior to registration of a business name.

HOW CAN I GET A NUANS REPORT?

• In Alberta, NUANS and Business Name Reports can be purchased through the registry.

WHEN DO YOU REQUIRE A NUANS REPORT?

• Before incorporating newly-named Alberta corporations, societies and religious societies
• Amending names for named Alberta or extra-provincial corporations registered in Alberta
• Reviving an Alberta corporation that has been struck or dissolved for more than three years
• Registering or reviving a named extra-provincial corporation
• Amalgamating 2 or more corporations where a new name is selected
• A NUANS search is not necessary if you choose to incorporate as a numbered Alberta corporation

A NUANS REPORT IS VALID FOR 90 DAYS

• A name proposed on a NUANS report is reserved for 90 days
• If you wish to incorporate the name it is important that you have the incorporation completed within the 90 days
• If the NUANS expires, you will need to purchase a new report if you still wish to use the name

Come to our registry and we will help you through the process.