Licensing Requirements

In Canada, surety bonds may only be issued by companies licensed to do so, either federally, or by one of the provincial insurance regulatory bodies. The requirements to obtain such a license are demanding and applicants are required to demonstrate financial solvency and sufficient strength to meet potential claims obligations. 

Only firms that are licensed to sell surety bonds in Canada may become members of the Surety Association of Canada. 

The Surety Association of Canada is available to assist bond purchasers in their efforts to protect themselves; if you encounter an unlicensed surety, please contact us at (905) 677-1353 or by email at surety [at] suretycanada.com.

Links to Canadian Surety Licensing Bodies

If you or your organization has any questions or concerns about whether a firm is licensed in Canada, you can visit any of the provincial/territorial regulator links below. 

• British Columbia Financial Services Authority
• Alberta Treasury Board and Finance
• Saskatchewan Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority
• Manitoba Financial Institutions Regulation Branch
• Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario
• Québec - l'Autorité des Marchés financiers
• Nova Scotia Finance and Treasury Board
• New Brunswick Financial and Consumer Services Commission
• Prince Edward Island Department of Justice & Public Safety
• Newfoundland & Labrador Financial Services Regulation Division
• Yukon Office of the Superintendent of Insurance
• Northwest Territories Office of the Superintendent of Insurance
• Nunavut - Ministry of Finance
• Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) - Federal Government