Incorporate your business in Canada
We incorporate companies in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and under federal law, with share structures and corporate records set up properly from the start.
The main reasons owners incorporate
Incorporation is not right for every business, but for many it brings real advantages. Here are the ones we discuss most often.
Limited liability
A corporation is a separate legal person. In general, its debts and obligations are its own, helping keep your personal assets separate from business risk.
Tax deferral
Profits left in an active Canadian-controlled private corporation may be taxed at lower corporate rates, deferring personal tax until you take the money out.
Business image
Customers, suppliers and lenders often see an incorporated business as more established and permanent.
Attracting investors
Share classes make it easier to bring in partners and investors, plan for succession, and eventually sell the business.
Tax outcomes depend on your circumstances. We work alongside your accountant or tax adviser where tax advice is needed.
BC, Alberta, Ontario or federal?
The procedures in each jurisdiction are quite similar, and it is generally easiest to incorporate in the province where you live or carry on business. A federal corporation can make sense if you plan to operate across several provinces, although it will usually still need to register in each province where it carries on business.
We will recommend the jurisdiction that fits your plans, and handle any extra-provincial registrations you need.
| Jurisdiction | Resident Canadian directors |
|---|---|
| British Columbia | Not required |
| Alberta | Not required (since 2021) |
| Ontario | Not required (since 2021) |
| Federal (CBCA) | Generally at least 25% [TO CONFIRM current rule] |
Summary only, as of 2026. Other requirements apply; ask us about your situation.
Incorporating in Canada from the United States
We get a lot of calls from citizens and residents of the United States about incorporating in Canada. It is certainly doable, but it is important to be aware of the added complexity that going cross-border brings to your business life, particularly around tax and reporting on both sides of the border.
You will need tax and other professional advisers who are familiar with both Canadian and US rules. We are happy to work with your existing advisers, or to discuss whether a British Columbia LLP may suit your situation better.
Considering a BC LLP instead? For partners outside Canada, a BC limited liability partnership offers flow-through treatment with limited liability, and is available to any type of business in British Columbia.
Our incorporation service
Every incorporation includes advice on the right structure for you, not just the filing.
[TO CONFIRM: package price(s) per jurisdiction and exact inclusions]
- Advice on jurisdiction, share classes and who should own shares
- Name search and name reservation (or a numbered company)
- Incorporation application, articles and notice of articles filed with the registry
- Organizational resolutions, share issuances and registers
- A complete corporate records book
- Registered and records office services if you need a BC address
Ready to incorporate?
Tell us a little about your business and we’ll recommend the right jurisdiction and structure.