Canadian Compliance
Canada does not have federal franchise legislation. Six provinces have enacted specific franchise disclosure laws. Verifran helps franchisors navigate this patchwork and ensure every candidate interaction is compliant.
6
Provinces with FDD laws
14
Days minimum disclosure period
2 yr
Rescission if no FDD provided
Arthur Wishart Act (Franchise Disclosure), 2000
Disclosure Period
14 days before signing or payment
Rescission Rights
60 days if FDD is deficient; 2 years if no FDD provided
Most comprehensive franchise legislation in Canada. Requires detailed financial statements, litigation history, and franchisee contact lists.
Franchises Act (Alberta), 2000
Disclosure Period
14 days before signing or payment
Rescission Rights
60 days if FDD is deficient; 2 years if no FDD provided
Similar to Ontario. Franchisors must include audited financial statements and material facts about the franchise system.
Franchises Act (British Columbia), 2015
Disclosure Period
14 days before signing or payment
Rescission Rights
60 days if FDD is deficient; 2 years if no FDD provided
Newest provincial franchise legislation. Closely mirrors Ontario and Alberta requirements.
The Franchises Act (Manitoba), 2012
Disclosure Period
14 days before signing or payment
Rescission Rights
60 days if FDD is deficient; 2 years if no FDD provided
Requires disclosure of all material facts. Includes civil remedies for misrepresentation.
Franchises Act (New Brunswick), 2007
Disclosure Period
14 days before signing or payment
Rescission Rights
60 days if FDD is deficient; 2 years if no FDD provided
First Atlantic province to adopt franchise legislation. Modelled on Ontario framework.
Franchises Act (PEI), 2005
Disclosure Period
14 days before signing or payment
Rescission Rights
60 days if FDD is deficient; 2 years if no FDD provided
Smallest province with franchise legislation. Requirements align with other regulated provinces.
Relies on Civil Code of Quebec for contract law. Good faith obligations and pre-contractual disclosure under general law. No franchise-specific requirements.
No franchise-specific legislation. Common law principles govern franchise relationships.
No franchise-specific legislation currently. Industry groups have advocated for adoption.
No franchise-specific legislation. Federal business law applies.
Verifran tracks which provinces your candidates are in and ensures your qualification process meets local disclosure requirements.
Start finding qualified candidatesThis page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a franchise lawyer for specific compliance guidance.