How long does a Health Canada cannabis licence take?

Timelines depend on the licence type, how complete the application is and the regulator’s current processing times. We prepare the application and supporting documents so the review runs smoothly, and we give you a realistic timeline at the start.

Do I need an MSB registration or RPAA registration?

It depends on the services you provide. Money services businesses register with FINTRAC, and payment service providers performing retail payment activities register with the Bank of Canada under the RPAA. Some businesses need both; we review your model and tell you which apply.

Can you help transfer a liquor licence?

In many cases, yes. A transfer is approved by the provincial regulator and depends on the licence conditions, the premises and the buyer’s eligibility. We handle the filings and coordinate with the other side of the deal.

Are peptides legal to sell in Canada?

It depends on the product, its claims and how it is sold. Some products are regulated as drugs or natural health products by Health Canada. We review the product and the sales model and explain what is permitted.

Do you work with clients outside Ontario?

Yes. We advise clients across Canada on federal and provincial regulatory matters, and we coordinate with local counsel where a provincial rule requires it.

How does your pricing work?

We always strive to offer our clients transparent, flexible and reasonable pricing and payment options. Where the scope of the engagement permits, we try to offer our clients innovative, fixed-fee pricing options instead of traditional hourly rates, and payment through EFT, Wire, E-transfer, and Credit/Debit Card.

News | Substance Law

Featured

New AGCO Enforcement Powers Against Illegal Cannabis Operations

On October 19, 2026, the Ontario government announced it would give the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) authority to inspect unauthorized cannabis storefronts and online sellers, seize illegal products and equipment, and issue administrative monetary penalties. The legislation has now been tabled as Bill 143, the Plan to Protect Ontario Act (Budget Measures),…

Read the article

Nov 4, 2026 FINTRAC-Related Blog Posts

Bill S-8 Explained: Canada Restricts Crypto ATMs, Bans $10,000 Cash Transactions and Enables Canada Post Seizure Powers

What The 2026 Federal Bill S-8 Does: The Combatting Financial Crimes and Drug Trafficking Act Bill S-8 gives Ottawa new tools against money laundering and fraud, but it is narrower than both Bill C-2 and the full crypto ATM ban announced in April. The Senate government bill, sponsored by Senator Pierre Moreau, had first reading…
Nov 1, 2026 NFT / Crypto-Related Blog Posts

Canada’s Proposed Stablecoin Regulations: What Issuers and Payment Businesses Need to Know

On October 24, 2026, the federal government published the proposed Stablecoin Regulations in the Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 160, Number 43. The draft regulations are needed to bring the Stablecoin Act into force, and they set out what issuers must file to register with the Bank of Canada and how they must comply. The…
Sep 8, 2026

Alcohol Vending Machines Now Allowed in Ontario Drinking Establishments

Effective September 8, 2026, an Ontario bar, restaurant, or other establishment holding a Liquor Sales Licence can put a vending machine on the floor that sells and serves alcohol to patrons. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) announced the change in an information bulletin published September 8, 2026, and gave effect to it…

FAQ

Your Question Answered.

Have questions about Substance Law? Here are some of the most common queries to help you get started.

Timelines depend on the licence type, how complete the application is and the regulator’s current processing times. We prepare the application and supporting documents so the review runs smoothly, and we give you a realistic timeline at the start.
It depends on the services you provide. Money services businesses register with FINTRAC, and payment service providers performing retail payment activities register with the Bank of Canada under the RPAA. Some businesses need both; we review your model and tell you which apply.
In many cases, yes. A transfer is approved by the provincial regulator and depends on the licence conditions, the premises and the buyer’s eligibility. We handle the filings and coordinate with the other side of the deal.
It depends on the product, its claims and how it is sold. Some products are regulated as drugs or natural health products by Health Canada. We review the product and the sales model and explain what is permitted.
Yes. We advise clients across Canada on federal and provincial regulatory matters, and we coordinate with local counsel where a provincial rule requires it.
We always strive to offer our clients transparent, flexible and reasonable pricing and payment options. Where the scope of the engagement permits, we try to offer our clients innovative, fixed-fee pricing options instead of traditional hourly rates, and payment through EFT, Wire, E-transfer, and Credit/Debit Card.

Service areas / Jurisdiction

Ontario-Based.
Canada-Wide Expertise.

We advise clients across Ontario and throughout Canada on regulatory, licensing and compliance matters in cannabis, psychedelics and other regulated industries.