Appoint or change a recognized agent for a business or non-profit
Appoint or change the recognized agent for your business or non-profit. Or change the recognized agent’s address. All businesses and non-profits need a recognized agent, except sole proprietors who live in Nova Scotia and co-operatives.
Use the Change/Resign Recognized Agent Form to appoint or change a recognized agent or update their address.
A recognized agent needs to live in Nova Scotia. They can be a partner, employee or other trusted representative. They don’t have to be a lawyer or an accountant.
All correspondence, including official documents from Registry of Joint Stock Companies, goes to the recognized agent unless you tell the registry in writing that the correspondence should go to someone else.
You need to notify Registry of Joint Stock Companies of any changes to the recognized agent or their address.
Public record
Information you file at Registry of Joint Stock Companies is available to the public.
Who can use this form
Sole proprietorships, partnerships, companies and societies need to use this form any time they appoint or change a recognized agent, or the agent’s address changes. Sole proprietors who live in Nova Scotia and co-operatives don’t need to appoint a recognized agent.
What you need to do
- Complete the Change/Resign Recognized Agent Form online.
- Check the form for details on all required supporting documents.
- Submit your completed form and supporting documents.
- Registry of Joint Stock Companies updates your records.
How long it takes
It should take 1 to 2 weeks to update your records. It can take longer if more information is needed or if your form hasn’t been filled in correctly.
Cost
There is no cost to submit the form.
Before you start
Make sure you have the sole proprietor, or 1 of the partners, officers or directors available to sign the form.
Online
When you file online you need to create an account or sign in. You also need to be an authorized filer for the for the business or non-profit.
You can use the Appointment of Recognized Agent Form (PDF 560 kB) if you’re unable to file online. Send your completed form by mail. Or visit Registry of Joint Stock Companies or Access Nova Scotia.