HomeServices › Canada Company Formation
Canada Company Formation

Register a Canadian Corporation as a Non-Resident

A Canadian company - whether a federal Canada Business Corporation Act (CBCA) Inc or a British Columbia Ltd - gives you access to Canadian clients, CAD banking, and a highly credible G7 legal entity. Non-residents can incorporate with some director residency conditions.

Form Canadian Company Talk to Our Team

Who this is for

  • Non-residents with Canadian clients or business partners
  • E-commerce sellers targeting the Canadian market
  • Entrepreneurs wanting a G7 legal entity recognised globally
  • Founders considering Canada as a future immigration pathway
Pricing

One-time service fee. Canadian government filing fee (approximately CAD 200-350) payable separately.

Form Canadian Company

What's included

How it works

Step 1

Jurisdiction choice

We assess whether a federal Canada Inc or a BC Ltd better suits your business goals and residency situation.

Step 2

Name search and reservation

We conduct the NUANS corporate name search and reserve your company name.

Step 3

Incorporation filed

We file your articles of incorporation with Corporations Canada (federal) or BC Registry Services (provincial). Typically approved within 1-5 business days.

Step 4

Documents and BN guidance

Your certificate and articles are delivered. We guide you on business number and GST/HST registration.

Frequently asked questions

Can a non-resident be a director of a Canadian company?

Federal CBCA corporations require that at least 25% of directors are Canadian residents (or at least one director if fewer than 4). British Columbia and several other provinces have no director residency requirement, making BC Ltd popular for non-residents. We assess your situation and recommend the best option.

What is the difference between a federal and provincial corporation?

A federal CBCA corporation is registered under federal law and can operate in any province without extra-provincial registration in most cases. A provincial corporation (e.g. BC Ltd) is registered in one province and may need extra-provincial registration to operate in other provinces. For most non-resident founders, a BC Ltd is simpler and avoids the director residency rule.

Will my Canadian company pay Canadian tax?

A Canadian corporation is generally subject to Canadian federal and provincial corporate income tax on its worldwide income. The specific rates and rules depend on where the company is resident for tax purposes (management and control). Consult a Canadian tax advisor.

Can I open a Canadian business bank account as a non-resident?

Canadian banks typically require in-person visits to open a corporate account, which is challenging for non-residents. Some online banks and fintech options accept remote account opening. We assist with banking options as part of the formation process.

Ready to get started?

Fixed price, real-time tracking, and expert handling, from first document to final approval.

Form Canadian Company

Related guides