This is one of the few things that doesn't suck in Canada. In Canada you can easily and quickly obtain a GST number online. Furthermore, if you're self-employe

This is one of the few things that doesn't suck in Canada. In Canada you can easily and quickly obtain a GST number online. Furthermore, if you're self-employed or a small business owner, with a revenue of $30,000 or less, you are classified as a "small supplier", and don't have register and charge/collect GST. For someone just starting out who will not be a small supplier, I believe the small supplier designation still provides a buffer zone. You can start invoicing immediately and sort out your registration later.