Company Name Reservation is the process of securing exclusive rights to use a specific business name for a limited period before officially registering your company.
Company name reservation allows entrepreneurs to hold a chosen business name temporarily whilst preparing incorporation paperwork.
This prevents others from registering the same name during the reservation period, typically lasting 28-90 days depending on jurisdiction.
You submit an application to the relevant company registry with your preferred name and pay the required fee.
The registry checks name availability and, if approved, reserves it exclusively for you.
You must complete your full company registration within the specified timeframe.
Company name reservation protects your brand identity during the incorporation process.
It ensures your chosen name remains available whilst you gather necessary documents, secure funding, or finalise business plans.
This prevents competitors from claiming your preferred name.
Use company name reservation when you need time between choosing your business name and completing full incorporation.
It's particularly useful if you're waiting for legal documents, finalising shareholding structures, or coordinating with multiple founders across different locations.
If your company name reservation expires before completing registration, the name becomes available for others to claim.
You'll need to submit a new reservation application and pay additional fees.
The original name might no longer be available.
Company name reservation fees vary by jurisdiction but typically range from modest administrative charges to slightly higher premium fees.
Many registries offer online applications with immediate confirmation, making the process quick and affordable for early-stage businesses.
Most jurisdictions allow company name reservation extensions for additional periods, subject to further fees.
However, extension policies vary significantly between different company registries, so check specific requirements well before your current reservation expires.