How to Register a Company in Canada as a Non-Resident

Starting a business in Canada is a smart move — whether you live in Canada or are applying as a non-resident. With a stable economy, trusted legal system, and clear incorporation process, Canada has become one of the best countries to launch a business.

If you're a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, registering a company is quick and straightforward.
You can incorporate provincially (like in Ontario or British Columbia) or federally depending on where you want to operate. Most provinces allow you to file online with minimal documentation.

Here's what you typically need:

Your legal name and business address

A unique company name (Buykii checks availability for you)

Directors' details (you can be the sole director)

NUANS name search report (except in BC)

Articles of Incorporation

Filing fees (vary by province)

Once approved, you'll receive your incorporation certificate and can register for taxes, open a business bank account, and start operating.

Non-Residents: You Can Still Incorporate in Canada
Yes — even if you're not living in Canada, you can still register a company. Many foreign entrepreneurs from countries like the US, UAE, India, or the UK choose Canada for its legal protection, tax advantages, and business reputation.

Here’s how non-residents can register a company in Canada:
1. Choose Incorporation Type
Federal Incorporation: Gives your business name protection across all provinces.
Provincial Incorporation: Faster and cheaper for operating in just one province like Ontario or BC.

2. Director Requirements
Some provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia allow 100% foreign ownership — no Canadian director needed. Federal incorporation also allows 100% foreign ownership since 2023.

3. Appoint a Registered Address in Canada
As a non-resident, you must provide a Canadian business address for government correspondence.

4. Submit Required Documents
You'll need Passport copy, Residential address, Articles of Incorporation and NUANS report (if required).
Once filed and approved, you’ll receive your incorporation certificate — and can begin setting up your business, including bank accounts, tax registration, and more.

Canada is one of the easiest and most trusted places in the world to incorporate. Whether you're operating locally or internationally, setting up a Canadian corporation adds credibility, access to funding, and legal protection to your business.
Don’t waste time navigating confusing government portals. Let Buykii take care of your registration so you can focus on growing your business.

Federal vs. Provincial Incorporation – Which One Is Right for You?

f you're planning to register a company in Canada, one of the first questions you'll face is:
Should I incorporate federally or provincially?

What Is Federal Incorporation?

Federal incorporation is done through Corporations Canada, a national registry under the Canadian government. This option is ideal if you plan to:

Operate across multiple provinces

Build a national brand

Protect your company name across all of Canada

Benefits:

Name protection across Canada

Operate in any province or territory

Trusted nationwide reputation

What Is Provincial Incorporation?
Provincial incorporation means registering with a specific province, such as Ontario, British Columbia, or Alberta.
This is the best option if you:

Only plan to operate in one province

Want a faster and more cost-effective registration

Don't need national name protection

Benefits:

Lower government fees (in most provinces)

Faster approval process

Simpler for small/local businesses

Benefits of Incorporating Your Business in Canada

Incorporating a business in Canada offers more than just legal formality — it’s a strategic move that brings credibility, financial flexibility, and long-term protection to both residents and non-residents. Whether you're an entrepreneur in Ontario, a non-resident starting a company from abroad, or a growing startup aiming to scale across provinces, the advantages are clear.

Limited Liability Protection
When you incorporate, your business becomes a separate legal entity. This means your personal assets (home, car, savings) are shielded from business debts or legal issues.

Build Trust & Business Credibility
Incorporated businesses are seen as more professional and trustworthy. Whether you’re applying for funding, forming partnerships, or attracting new clients — your incorporation status sends a strong message.

Tax Advantages & Flexibility
Corporations in Canada may benefit from:

Lower corporate tax rates

Income splitting for families

More deductible expenses

Carrying forward losses to future years

These benefits can help your business keep more of its revenue, especially as it grows.

Easier Access to Funding & Investment
Registered corporations can raise capital more easily by:

Issuing shares

Attracting angel investors or venture capital

Accessing grants or loans offered by Canadian government programs

This structure signals growth potential, giving you more options when you're ready to scale.

Best Province in Canada to Incorporate for Foreign Entrepreneurs

If you're a non-resident planning to incorporate in Canada, choosing the right province is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. While you technically have several options — including British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec — Ontario often stands out as the most practical and beneficial choice for international business owners.

Why Ontario Is the Best Province for Foreign Entrepreneurs
Here are the main reasons why foreign founders prefer Ontario incorporation:

No Residency Requirement for Directors
Ontario allows non-Canadian residents to form a corporation without requiring Canadian-resident directors. This means you can:

Own 100% of your company

Manage your business remotely

Avoid needing a local partner

imple & Fast Incorporation Process
Ontario's incorporation process is:

Fast (can be done in 1–2 business days)

Affordable (government fee is around CAD $300)

Business Hub with Great Opportunities
Ontario — especially Toronto — is home to:

The largest business community in Canada

Financial institutions, investors, and accelerators

What Is a NUANS Report and Why Is It Required?

NUANS stands for Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search. It’s a government-approved system that compares your desired company name against:

Existing corporations

Trademarks

Business names

Non-profit organizations

The result is a report showing potential conflicts or name similarities.

Why Is It Required? Canada’s federal and most provincial governments require a NUANS report to:

Avoid name duplication

Prevent legal issues with existing businesses

Ensure your brand stands out in the market

Annual Compliance for Canadian Corporations

Incorporating your business is only the beginning — keeping it compliant each year is what keeps it legally active, in good standing, and trusted by banks, clients, and government.

What Is Annual Compliance?

Annual compliance refers to the mandatory legal and tax-related filings every Canadian corporation must complete year after year to remain active.
It includes:

Annual corporate filings (federal or provincial)

Updating business address or directors (if changed)

Corporate tax filing (T2 return)

Paying annual government fees

Keeping corporate records (minute book)

Consequences of Missing Annual Compliance
If you miss your compliance deadlines:

Your business may be marked “Not In Good Standing”

You risk penalties or late fees

Government can automatically dissolve your corporation

You'll lose access to banking, licensing, and legal protections