As the body that licenses and regulates retirement homes in Ontario, the RHRA provides a clear and structured process to help potential and current operators navigate the licence application process.
To begin, you’ll need to:
- Determine the type of application – a new home or acquisition of an existing home.
- Complete the required forms.
- Gather all supporting documents.
- Submit your application for review – this may include an inspection before a licence is issued.
Read on for the key steps and documents required for licensing applications.
1 – Understand Important Information Before Applying
Before you begin your application, it’s important to understand a few key requirements, responsibilities, and distinctions involved in operating a licensed retirement home in Ontario. Understanding these elements will help ensure your application is complete, accurate and aligned with RHRA expectations.
- New owner, new licence: Because retirement home licences are not transferable, if you are purchasing an existing licensed retirement home or there is a change of controlling interest, the current licence terminates and you will need to apply for a new licence through the RHRA.
- Only in Ontario: Licences from other countries and provinces are not valid in Ontario. If you want to operate a retirement home in Ontario, you must apply for a licence through the RHRA – it’s the only authority that can approve it.
- Valid under these terms: As long as you pay your fees and maintain your compliance with the Retirement Homes Act, 2010, your licence remains valid. However, it can be revoked by the Registrar, surrendered by the licensee, or automatically terminated if there’s a sale or change in controlling interest.
- The difference between retirement homes and long-term care homes: Retirement homes are governed by the Retirement Homes Act, 2010, and are typically privately paid by residents. In contrast, long-term care homes, sometimes referred to as nursing homes, receive government funding and are regulated by the Ministry of Long-Term Care (MLTC) and governed under the Long-Term Care Homes Act, 2007. See our handy infographic for more information.
- The Retirement Homes Database: RHRA maintains a public database of all licensed retirement homes. In this Register you’ll find each home’s name and address, the care services it offers , its occupancy, summaries of inspection reports, and any orders imposed on it under the Retirement Homes Act, 2010.
- Automatic fire sprinklers: Under the Ontario Fire Code, all licensed retirement homes must be equipped with automatic fire sprinklers as of January 1, 2019. If you are purchasing a home that is not equipped with sprinklers, we strongly advise you to assess the cost of installation before submitting your licence application.
2 – Review Application Guide and Checklists
Application Guide – You can find the full application guide and an overview of the necessary forms here.
Note: The application checklists provided are general guides. Depending on the specific details of your application, you may be asked to submit additional documentation. These lists are not exhaustive, and the RHRA may request further information to support the review process.
Application Checklist: New Operation Application
When applying for a retirement home licence, be prepared to submit the following additional documents:
- Fire Safety Plan
A copy of the approved plan. If unavailable at the time of application, submit a draft plan along with proof of submission from the local fire department showing steps towards compliance. - Sprinkler System Documentation
Proof that sprinklers are installed and operational (e.g., Contractor’s Material Test Certificate). - Food Handling Certificate
Required for at least one person involved in food preparation – only if the home provides meals to the residents. - Extra Expense Insurance
Evidence of coverage. - Municipal Licence
If applicable. - Pre-opening Public Health Inspection Report
- Information Package
Required under s. 54 of the Retirement Homes Act, 2010 (“the Act”). - Procedure for Complaints
Required under s.73 of the Act. - Emergency Plan
Required under s. 60 (4) 1 of the Act. - Zero Tolerance Policy
A policy promoting zero tolerance of abuse and neglect, as required under s. 67(4) of the Act. - Applicant’s Experience
A letter and/or CV/Resume outlining your relevant experience. - Management Company Experience
A letter outlining previous sector experience, if applicable. - Occupancy Permit
Confirmation that the building complies with local building codes and is safe for occupancy, or a statement indicating the anticipated date of permit submission.
- Zoning Documentation
Proof that the home is located in an area zoned for retirement home use.
Application Checklist: Acquisition Licence Application
When applying for an acquisition licence, be sure to include the following documents:
- Fire Safety Plan
A copy of the home’s most recent Fire Safety Plan and proof of approval by the local fire department. - Food Handling Certificate
For at least one person involved in food preparation (only if the home provides meals). - Extra Expense Insurance
Proof of coverage. - Municipal Licence
If applicable - Public Health Inspection Reports
The three most recent reports.
- Information Package
As required under s. 54 of the Retirement Homes Act, 2010 (“the Act”). - Emergency Plan
As required under s. 60 (4) 1 of the Act. - Zero Tolerance Policy
A policy promoting zero tolerance of abuse and neglect, as required under s. 67(4) of the Act. - Applicant’s Experience
A letter and/or CV/Resume outlining your relevant experience. - Management Company Experience
A letter outlining previous sector experience, if applicable.
Reusing Previously Submitted Policies
If your home intends to use policies that were previously submitted with an RHRA licensing application and deemed sufficient by the RHRA, you do not need to submit them with any subsequent applications.
If you are unsure whether you need to submit your policies, please contact us at licensing@rhra.ca for confirmation.
Application for Change of Controlling Interest
For changes in controlling interest, please contact us at licensing@rhra.ca.
Corporate and Personal History Reports
As part of your licence application, you may be required to submit one or both of the following reports:
You must submit a Corporate History Report if the applicant is a for-profit or a not-for-profit corporation.
- This report must be signed by an authorized officer or representative of the corporation.
You must submit a Personal History Report for the following applicant(s):
- a sole proprietor
- all directors and officers
- any other person(s) who, alone or with associates, own more than 50 per cent of the voting shares of a business corporation – enough to elect a majority of the board of directors.
- in a partnership, any person (including a spouse, relative, or partner) who has the ability to direct the management and policies of the home.
3 – Submit Your Application Through the RHRA Self-Service Portal
The fastest, easiest and most reliable way to apply.
Streamline your licensing application process by using the RHRA Self-Service Portal – your one-stop hub for submitting licensing applications, updating home information, uploading documents, and tracking your progress in real time. Unlike static forms, the Portal ensures your application is complete, up to date, and securely submitted.
Why use the Portal
- Complete and submit forms online – no printing or scanning required
- Upload all required documents in one place
- Instantly track your application status
- Receive faster responses and fewer delays
How to access the Portal
To request access, email info@rhra.ca and answer a few quick questions. You will receive your login credentials and instructions within one business day.
Need help using the Portal? Please contact us at licensing@rhra.ca – we’re here to support you every step of the way.
4 – PDF Application Forms - If You’re Unable to Use the Portal
Note: The RHRA strongly encourages all applicants to use the Self-Service Portal, offering a faster, more efficient and secure way to manage licensing applications – with real-time updates and quicker processing. ensuring faster processing and real-time updates.
However, if you are unable to use the Portal, you can download and complete the most current PDF application forms below.
Important Update: The RHRA’s licensing forms have recently changed.
If you are submitting any of the application forms listed below, please ensure you are using the most current version. Using outdated forms may delay the processing of your application.
PDF Application Forms