Company Registration in Canada for Non-Residents
We support company formation in Canada: helping you choose the right province and business structure, prepare the required documents, and launch operations with clients and payments
WoBorders is an independent private consulting company. We provide advisory and administrative support and are not affiliated with any government authority or official registry
countries where we support company formation and international business growth
years of experience in international business consulting and structuring
clients who successfully launched their businesses abroad with our support
We are proud of our clients and sincerely grateful for their trust
Which types of businesses are suitable for opening a business in Canada?
Companies in Canada are commonly opened for international operations, working with clients in Canada and the USA, launching IT products, service-based businesses, and online sales.
Benefits of registering a company in Canada
Canada is a stable jurisdiction with predictable business regulations, a transparent corporate structure, and access to clients in the North American market
Stable jurisdiction for international business
Canada offers a predictable legal system, clear business regulations, and the opportunity to build a long-term business structure
Access to clients in Canada and the USA
A Canadian company allows you to work with clients in both Canada and the United States and expand into international sales
Remote management possible
In many cases, company registration can be arranged remotely — from document preparation to launching the business
Integration of payment solutions based on your business model
After company registration, it is possible to choose a bank or payment system depending on the business model, client geography, and payment flow requirements
Which business form to register in Canada?
There are several business structures available in Canada, but non-residents most commonly choose a Corporation. Below is a brief explanation of the differences and the typical uses of each structure.
Corporation (Federal or Provincial) — the main business structure for Non-Residents in Canada
A Corporation is the most common company structure in Canada for non-residents and international businesses. It is a separate legal entity that allows you to work with international clients and build a clear and scalable business structure.
A Federal Corporation allows operations across all provinces in Canada, while a Provincial Corporation is registered within a specific province and usually offers simpler administration and lower maintenance requirements.
Suitable for: IT, SaaS, e-commerce, consulting, service businesses, and international projects.
Not sure which structure to choose? We will help you select the best option based on your business model and target market.
Partnership (GP / LP) — for joint ventures and investment structures
A Partnership is used less frequently and is generally suitable for joint businesses or projects involving multiple participants. In this structure, profits are distributed among partners in proportion to their ownership shares.
General Partnership (GP) involves full liability of the partners for the business activities, while Limited Partnership (LP) allows investors to participate without being involved in operational management.
Commonly used for: investment structures, joint ventures, and specific partner-based business models.
For most international business cases, a Corporation remains the preferred and most practical solution.
Main taxes for companies in Canada
Canada’s tax system consists of two levels: federal and provincial. The corporate income tax rate depends on the province of incorporation and the business structure. In general, corporate taxation includes a federal tax of approximately 15% and a provincial tax averaging between 8% and 16%, depending on the region.
Canada has a predictable tax system and double-taxation treaties, allowing businesses to work with international clients without unnecessary double taxation.
Current tax rates as of 2026
| Province | Corporate income tax rates in Canada by province |
|---|---|
| Ontario | 11.5% |
| British Columbia | 12% |
| Alberta | 8% |
| Manitoba | 12% |
| New Brunswick | 14% |
| Prince Edward Island | 15.5% |
| Nova Scotia | 14% |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 15% |
| Nunavut | 12% |
| Northwest Territories | 11.5% |
| Yukon | 12% or 2.5% |
| Saskatchewan | 12% or 10% |
| Quebec | 11.5% |
GST, PST, and HST: goods and services taxes in Canada
In Canada, the system of indirect taxes varies by province. Goods and services may be subject to GST — a federal tax of 5%, PST — a provincial tax with rates varying by region, or HST — a combined model that includes both federal and provincial components.
The obligation to register for a VAT number arises if the company’s annual turnover exceeds 30 000 CAD. Having such a number allows a company to work legally with local counterparties and, depending on the province and type of activity, to access certain business support programs. Canada also offers tax incentives, discounts, and benefits that may be relevant for small and innovative businesses.
GST, PST, and HST rates in Canadian provinces vary depending on the region:
| Province | GST/HST/PST tax rates in Canada by province |
|---|---|
| Ontario | 13% |
| British Columbia | 5% + 7% = 12% |
| Alberta | 5% |
| Manitoba | 5% + 7% = 12% |
| New Brunswick | 15% |
| Prince Edward Island | 15% |
| Nova Scotia | 15% |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 15% |
| Nunavut | 5% |
| Northwest Territories | 5% |
| Yukon | 5% |
| Saskatchewan | 5% + 6% = 11% |
| Quebec | 5% + 9.975% = 14.975% |
Accounting and reporting for companies in Canada
Canadian companies are required to maintain accounting records, prepare financial statements, and file annual corporate documents in accordance with the requirements of the province and business structure. Basic obligations include bookkeeping, filing annual tax returns, preparing Annual Resolutions and Filings, as well as GST/HST reporting if applicable to the company’s activities.
The accounting support format is selected depending on the transaction volume, business type, and company requirements. Preparation of the annual reporting package usually starts from approximately €500, while ongoing accounting support and tax reporting are calculated individually.
What documents are required to register a company in Canada
For non-residents, registering a company in Canada usually requires only a minimal set of information and documents. We handle most of the document preparation, registration procedures, and ongoing support on our side.
How long does it take to register a company in Canada
After submitting the documents to the registry, company registration in Canada usually takes 1 to 3 business days, depending on the province or federal incorporation selected. Preparation of incorporation documents and the internal company structure typically takes around 3–5 days. Obtaining a Business Number (BN) and, if required, GST/PST/HST registration may take additional time depending on the type of business activity.
In most cases, the basic company registration process can be completed within 1 week.
The exact timeline depends on the province, company structure, and whether payment solutions need to be connected.
Get a free consultation on doing business in Canada
We will advise on the appropriate structure and guide you through the registration process
Stages of company formation in Canada for Non-Residents
Registering a company in Canada for non-residents involves several stages: choosing the appropriate business structure, preparing the required documents, filing with the registry, obtaining a Business Number (BN), and setting up tax and payment solutions.
Cost of company registration in Canada for Non-Residents
Company registration in Canada for non-residents starts at € 1,500 for the basic package.
We support company registration in Canada for non-residents — from basic setup to advanced solutions with tax registrations, GST/HST, and payment infrastructure for international business. The final cost depends on the selected province, company structure, and additional options required. The packages are suitable for IT, SaaS, e-commerce, and service businesses working with international clients.
BASIC
An optimal option for a fast business launch in Canada
- Initial consultation (30 min)
- Company registration in Canada
- Payment of government fees
- Preparation of incorporation documents
- Obtaining a Business Number (BN)
- Registration with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
- GST/HST registration (if required)
- Assistance with opening a Payoneer account
STANDARD
The best option for working with clients in Canada and entering international markets
- Everything included in the Basic package, plus:
- Virtual office rental for 1 year
PRO
Suitable for businesses that need a comprehensive launch and additional support
- Everything included in the Basic and Standard packages, plus:
- CFC notification filing (for Ukrainians only)
- CPA consultation — 1 hour
Schedule a consultation on company registration in Canada
Your consultant
Ivan Chebotarov
CEO & co-Founder
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We will help you choose the optimal company structure based on your business model and growth plans
Frequently asked questions about business registartion in Canada
Can a Non-Resident open a company in Canada?
Yes, non-residents can register a company in Canada without major restrictions. In most provinces, director residency is not required, which makes Canada a convenient jurisdiction for international business.
What taxes do companies pay in Canada?
Companies in Canada pay corporate income tax, which consists of a federal rate (approximately 15%) and a provincial rate (approximately 8–16%). Goods and services may also be subject to GST, PST, or HST, depending on the province.
When Is GST/HST registration required?
Registration is mandatory if the company’s annual turnover exceeds 30,000 CAD. It allows businesses to work with local clients and recover paid tax credits where applicable.
What business entity types are available for non-residents in the Canada?
For non-residents, the most commonly used structure is a Corporation (Federal or Provincial). Partnerships are used less frequently and are mainly suitable for investment or partnership-based projects.
What is the difference between a Federal and a Provincial company?
A Federal Corporation allows operations across all provinces in Canada, while a Provincial Corporation is registered within a specific province and usually offers simpler administration and lower maintenance requirements.
Can a business bank account be opened remotely?
In most cases, opening a traditional bank account in Canada requires personal presence. An alternative is international payment systems that enable businesses to operate remotely.
Are there any Tax Benefits for Non-Residents?
There are no special tax benefits specifically for non-residents. However, double taxation treaties are in place and may help optimize the overall tax burden.
Is Canada suitable for IT, SaaS, and E-commerce businesses?
Yes, Canada is well-suited for IT, SaaS, e-commerce, and service businesses, especially if you work with clients in North America and plan to scale internationally.
How much does company registration in Canada cost?
The cost starts from €1500 for the basic package and depends on the selected province, company structure, and additional services required.
Is a consultation needed before opening a company?
Yes, a consultation helps you choose the right province and company structure, while also avoiding potential tax and banking limitations before launch.
What our clients say about WoBorders
Ongoing support after business setup in Canada
