Business Registration

1. Business Registration: Begin by registering your business and obtaining a Business Number (BN). You'll also need to register for GST/HST if your business meets the taxable thresholds. This can be done through Business Registration Online (BRO), which also allows you to link to provincial programs in Ontario and Nova Scotia if needed. For more detailed guidance, visit Canada's Business Registration Online.

3. Taxation: Ensure you understand the taxation requirements for foreign-owned businesses in Canada. This includes corporate income tax, payroll tax if you have employees, and other relevant taxes. Compliance with these tax obligations is crucial for operating legally and successfully.

4. Permanent Establishment: If your business has a fixed place of business or an agent in Canada, it is considered a permanent establishment, which affects your tax obligations. Understanding these rules is essential for proper tax planning and compliance.

5. Choosing a Business Entity: Select the appropriate business entity based on the nature and size of your business. Options include sole proprietorship, partnership, cooperative, and corporation. Each has different implications for liability, taxation, and operational flexibility.

6. Name Reservation: Conduct a name search to ensure your chosen business name is available and does not infringe on existing trademarks. This is especially important for federal incorporation, which provides broader protections and obligations.

7. Incorporation and Legal Requirements: Decide whether to incorporate federally or provincially. Federal incorporation offers the advantage of operating across Canada but requires registration in each province where the business operates. Provincial incorporation might be simpler and cheaper if you plan to operate in a single province.

8. Visa and Immigration: If you plan to move to Canada to run your business, consider visa programs like the Start-Up Visa Program, which targets entrepreneurs with a business that can create jobs in Canada and compete globally. This program and others like it have specific requirements for language proficiency and financial stability.

By following these steps and ensuring compliance with Canadian laws and regulations, you can establish a successful business in Canada as a foreigner. For more comprehensive details on each step, the Government of Canada provides resources and guides on starting a business.