One of the most common questions we receive from entrepreneurs around the world is simple yet crucial:
Can a non-resident register a company in Canada?
The short answer is yes — but understanding how and where to do it is what makes the difference between a smooth incorporation and unnecessary complications.
Canada Welcomes Global Entrepreneurs
Canada is one of the few advanced economies that allows full foreign ownership of corporations. You don’t need to live in Canada, hold a visa, or even visit the country to establish a legal company. This openness makes Canada an ideal base for international entrepreneurs, investors, consultants, and e-commerce founders who want to expand globally with a trusted jurisdiction.
However, while incorporation is fully possible for non-residents, there are specific provincial rules and director requirements you must understand before you begin.
️ Federal vs. Provincial Incorporation — The Key Difference
When registering a company in Canada, you can incorporate either federally (under the Canada Business Corporations Act) or provincially (in one of Canada’s 13 provinces and territories).
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Federal incorporation allows your business name to be used across the entire country, but it requires that at least 25% of the company’s directors be Canadian residents.
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Provincial incorporation, on the other hand, is often more flexible for non-residents, especially in provinces like British Columbia, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Yukon, where no Canadian resident directors are required.
For most international entrepreneurs, this makes provincial incorporation the best option — offering full ownership, online registration, and zero residency barriers.
How the Process Works
Incorporating in Canada as a non-resident is straightforward when guided by experts. You simply:
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Choose the province of incorporation (based on flexibility and tax considerations)
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Select a unique business name or numbered company
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Prepare your incorporation documents
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Appoint a registered agent and local office address (required by law)
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File the application and receive your Certificate of Incorporation
Once your company is registered, you can also obtain your Business Number (BN), set up tax accounts, and open a corporate bank account to start operations immediately.
A Fast and Fully Online Process
The entire incorporation process can be done 100% online, without traveling to Canada. CFS Canada handles every step — from preparing legal documents and providing a registered address to securing your CRA tax accounts and annual compliance.
This means you can own and operate a fully legal Canadian company while living anywhere in the world — from Dubai or London to Singapore or Bogotá.
Start Your Canadian Incorporation Today
Ready to register your company in Canada as a non-resident?
Visit www.companyformations.ca or email [email protected].
At CFS Canada, we make incorporation simple, fast, and fully compliant — wherever you are in the world. Contact us using the form below:
If you have any general questions, feedback or other inquiries, contact us and a customer service representative will gladly assist you.
