Obtain an authorization to contract

To obtain an authorization to contract, businesses must submit an application via the AMP’s Online services, which are securely accessed through clicSÉQUR, the Government of Quebec's authentication service.

If a business does not have a clicSÉQUR number (for example, because it is a foreign company or an individual operating a business), it cannot access the AMP’s Online Services. In such cases, the business must use the designated forms to submit its application.

Regardless of the method, there are two mandatory steps to obtain authorization: completing and submitting the application form and disclosing the business's commercial ties. The applicable non-refundable fees must also be paid.

For more details, refer to the guide on how to apply for a contracting authorization.

Required documents

Make sure to provide the required documents according to the type of your enterprise:

Important

If your enterprise does not have audited financial statements, the AMP requires at least a review engagement report on the financial statements for the latest fiscal year signed by an officer of the enterprise (notices to reader and compilation engagements will not be accepted). Otherwise, your application for authorization cannot be processed and the application fees will not be refunded.
The AMP publishes decrees outlining the thresholds and categories of public contracts covered by the law. Contact the public contract's tendering officer for more information.

Application Processing

Once the required information and documents are received, the AMP processes the application and evaluates the integrity of the business. This process includes verifying relevant information obtained from partners such as the Commission de la construction du Québec, the Régie du bâtiment du Québec, the Registraire des entreprises du Québec, and Revenu Québec. The AMP also collaborates with the Unité permanente anticorruption, which sends in a report the results of its verifications relating to the links that the plaintiff maintains or has maintained with organized crime or even the lack of adequacy between the legal sources of legal financing of the enterprise and its activities.

In light of its discussions with its various partners, the AMP makes a decision on the application for the issuance or the renewal of the authorization.

Processing Time

Applications are processed as promptly as possible. Processing times may vary depending on the complexity of the case. To avoid delays, ensure your business's information is up to date with the Registraire des entreprises du Québec, Revenu Québec, and the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (if the business holds an RBQ license).

Communication of Information

Throughout the application process and as long as the business holds an authorization, the designated representative is the sole contact for all communications with the AMP. If the representative is unable to fulfill their duties, they may appoint another authorized representative via a signed power of attorney to liaise with the AMP regarding the application.

Appealing an AMP Decision on an Authorization Application

The AMP’s decision regarding an authorization application is an administrative decision. It is final and cannot be appealed but may be subject to review by the Superior Court.

Companion guides

Authorization to enter into a public contract (E-services)
Renewing (or not) an authorization to contract
Authorization to enter into a public contract (Foreign enterprises and natural persons operating an enterprise)