Can I Use a Virtual Office for a GBP Address on Google Maps?
The short answer is: Yes, but the situation is highly nuanced. Google has strict rules to prevent map spam, stating that shell addresses and mailboxes are generally ineligible. Yet, the same rules carve out important exceptions for modern, flexible workspaces.
Many high-profile serviced office addresses, such as Regus at 100 King St W, Toronto and Spaces at 151 West Hastings ST, Vancouver, have successfully registered GBPs.
This guide delves into the official criteria, exploring the differences between a compliant serviced office and a basic virtual office, to help you navigate the verification process and establish a credible, long-term presence on Google Maps.
What is GBP?
A Google Business Profile (GBP), formerly known as Google My Business (GMB), is a free tool from Google that lets businesses manage how they appear on Google Search and Google Maps. This profile is not just a digital marker, but a crucial element for your business's online visibility and credibility.
Why is GBP Important?
It provides the critical "pin on the map" and is the primary factor for showing up in the 'Local Pack' (the block of three business listings that appears beneath the map in search results). The profile displays crucial business details, operating hours, phone numbers, a website link, customer reviews, and photos, acting as a direct trust signal to potential clients.
A complete, verified, and active GBP significantly contributes to a business's local search ranking and overall online credibility.
For businesses aiming to establish a presence in Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, having a verified GBP associated with a local address is paramount for attracting local customers.
Can I use a Virtual Office for a GBP?
The eligibility of a flexible workspace address for a Google Business Profile (GBP) is determined primarily by the business's actual operations and the type of service purchased, rather than the address itself.
For example, Regus at 100 King Street West, Toronto, Ontario, is a prominent virtual address offering a full range of services, including comprehensive telecommunications support, mail handling, and registered P.O. boxes.
Similarly, Spaces at 151 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, provides comprehensive virtual packages with registered address, mail and phone support, and online meeting rooms.
Despite the location being listed on Google Maps, a business must include staffing and signage requirements, as well as a customer-facing presence within the building, to qualify for a separate GBP, mirroring the situation in the Toronto example.
How Google Considers a Valid Business Address
To maintain listing quality and prevent spam, Google applies stringent checks to determine if an address qualifies as a "real-world location" eligible for a profile that shows on the map. To find the answer to the most common question: Can I use a virtual office for a GBP? It is better to understand how Google considers it.
1. Staffed Presence
The location must be staffed by your business (not just the building's general receptionist) during the stated business hours. This proves the location is operational.
2. Customer Interaction
The business must be able to meet customers in person at the location. If you are a Service Area Business (SAB), meaning you travel to the client (like a plumber or consultant), you must hide your address on your GBP—even if you use a qualifying physical address for verification.
3. Permanent Signage
Google increasingly requires proof of permanent, fixed signage for businesses that choose a virtual address. Getting registered with GBP helps companies to earn credibility and assurance of a professional working style.
4. Verification Method
While verification often starts with a postcard sent to the physical address, Google may escalate the process to video verification. During this live process, you must be able to show the exterior of the building, the building address number, your office number, and your permanent signage, proving your business physically exists at that exact location. Knowing this process can help you prepare for the verification.
If you cannot meet these stringent criteria, using a VO address, especially in competitive Canadian markets, carries a high risk of suspension or removal from the listing.
Secure a Virtual Office for GBP with Office Hub
When deciding whether to use a flexible address for your Google Business Profile (GBP), look beyond the "virtual office" term and focus on the physical details of your lease agreement.
Although Google generally prohibits mail-only services, securing a fully registered virtual office via Office Hub significantly strengthens your position.
To ensure your business builds verifiable local credibility on Google Maps, start by exploring compliant office providers that offer seamless transitions from a virtual office to physical space, as well as the infrastructure your business needs.
Find your eligible, customer-facing virtual office space with us. Contact us to get started.
