Foreign Resident Owned Canadian Corporations

As a foreign resident, you may be interested in registering a corporation in Canada. It is important to note that the registration process and requirements may vary depending on the province in which you choose to incorporate. In this blog, we will discuss the options available to foreign residents who wish to incorporate a company in Canada and where they can register their corporation.

Option 1: Federal Incorporation

One option available to foreign residents is to incorporate federally through the Canadian federal government. This means that your corporation would be registered with the federal government rather than a specific province or territory. The advantage of federal incorporation is that it allows you to conduct business across Canada without having to register in each individual province or territory. It also provides you with a unique name that is protected across the country. However, it is important to note that federal incorporation does not exempt you from complying with the laws and regulations of each province in which you do business.

Option 2: Provincial Incorporation

Another option available to foreign residents is to incorporate provincially in one of the Canadian provinces or territories. Each province and territory has its own requirements for incorporating a company, and it is important to research these requirements before deciding where to incorporate. Some provinces may require a Canadian resident director, while others may not have this requirement.

Where Can I Register My Corporation as a Foreign Resident?

As a foreign resident, you can register your corporation in any Canadian province or territory. However, it is important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each location before making a decision. Some factors to consider include:

1. Business climate: Different provinces and territories have different business climates and regulations. It is important to research the local market and regulatory environment before deciding where to incorporate.
2. Taxation: Each province and territory has its own tax laws and rates. It is important to consider the tax implications of incorporating in a particular location.
3. Cost: The cost of incorporating varies by province and territory. It is important to consider the cost of registration, legal fees, and ongoing compliance requirements.
4. Accessibility: If you plan to do business in Canada, it may be important to consider the accessibility of the location you choose to incorporate. For example, incorporating in a location with a major airport or port may be beneficial if you plan to import or export goods.

At Falcon Law PC, our team of experienced business lawyers can assist foreign residents with the process of incorporating a corporation in Canada. We can provide guidance on the best location to incorporate based on your specific needs and assist with the registration process. Contact us at 1-877-892-7778 or info@falconlawyers.ca to schedule a consultation.