Canada has long been considered one of the most business-friendly countries in the world, offering stability, access to global markets, and a welcoming environment for investors. If you're a non-resident entrepreneur or foreign investor, one of your top questions is likely: Can I fully own a company in Canada?

The short answer is yes, but the details vary depending on the province or state. In this guide, we’ll break down how 100% foreign ownership works in three of Canada’s most popular provinces for business: British Columbia, Ontario, and Alberta.

Whether you're exploring company registration in Canada or researching the best province for your new business venture, this guide is designed to simplify your decision-making process.

Understanding Foreign Ownership in Canada

Canada allows foreign nationals to register and own corporations. However, each province sets its own rules for corporate ownership, resident director requirements, and incorporation processes. This means where you choose to register your business can have a big impact on how easy it is to start and operate.

Foreign ownership doesn’t necessarily mean you have to immigrate or reside in Canada, but some provinces require at least one director to be a Canadian resident. This is where things become nuanced—and why choosing the right province is crucial.

British Columbia: A Favorite for International Entrepreneurs

British Columbia (BC) is often the go-to province for foreign entrepreneurs, and for good reason.

Key Highlights:

No Canadian resident director requirement.

Allows 100% foreign ownership.

Online company registration is streamlined and accessible.

Competitive incorporation fees.

In BC, foreign nationals can fully own and control a corporation without needing a local partner or resident director. This makes it one of the most accessible provinces for international investors. If you're considering business incorporation in Canada and want to avoid resident director requirements, BC is a strong candidate.

Additionally, BC has a growing tech sector, a vibrant startup ecosystem, and excellent international connectivity through Vancouver.

Ontario: Canada’s Economic Powerhouse

Ontario, home to Toronto—the country’s largest city and financial center—is a prime location for businesses. It offers a large consumer base, access to talent, and proximity to the U.S. border.

Key Highlights:

Requires at least 25% of directors to be Canadian residents (federal and most provincial incorporations).

Does not allow full foreign ownership of director-level control without local representation.

Offers strong infrastructure, skilled labor, and financial institutions.

Suppose you’re set on incorporating in Ontario. In that case, you’ll need a Canadian resident to be on the board of directors unless you incorporate federally and choose a different province for your business address. While you can still fully own the shares, the resident director rule adds an extra step for international founders.

This doesn’t make Ontario a bad choice—it just means you’ll need to find a nominee director or partner with a local advisor.

Alberta: Business-Friendly and Flexible

Alberta has built a strong reputation for its low taxes and support for entrepreneurs. For international investors, recent changes have made it even more attractive.

Key Highlights:

As of March 2021, no longer requires a Canadian resident director.

Permits 100% foreign ownership.

Offers competitive tax rates and minimal red tape.

This policy shift has made Alberta a serious contender for foreign investors who want full ownership and control of their Canadian operations. Alberta’s economy is diverse, with strong sectors in energy, agriculture, and increasingly, tech.

If you're comparing provinces for Canada company incorporation, Alberta offers a blend of business-friendliness and policy flexibility.

Which Province Should You Choose?

The best province for company registration in Canada depends on your business goals, industry, and whether you have access to local Canadian partners.

Here's a quick comparison:

If total ownership and simplicity are your top priorities, British Columbia or Alberta are ideal. If access to Ontario’s vast market and financial ecosystem is essential, you may consider federal incorporation with an Ontario address or work with a nominee director.

Also Read: Understanding the Need for Tax Compliance Services in Canada

Steps for Business Incorporation in Canada as a Foreigner

Choose a Province: Decide based on ownership rules, taxes, and your target market.

Decide on Federal vs. Provincial Incorporation: Federal incorporation allows you to operate nationwide but comes with additional regulations.

Name Search and Approval: Ensure your business name is unique via a NUANS report (except in BC).

Prepare Articles of Incorporation: This document outlines your company's structure and objectives.

Appoint Directors and Shareholders: Ensure compliance with residency requirements if applicable.

Register for Taxes and Licenses: GST/HST, payroll, and local business permits.

Open a Business Bank Account: You’ll need this to transact in Canada.

Final Thoughts

Foreign ownership in Canada is possible, and the country continues to welcome global entrepreneurs with open arms. While some provinces still maintain residency requirements, others have adapted to support international investment more freely.

Whether you're looking to launch a startup, expand your existing business, or establish a new company in Canada, understanding the provincial landscape is key. British Columbia and Alberta stand out as the most straightforward options for full foreign ownership, while Ontario offers scale with slightly more complexity.

Take the time to assess your goals and consult with a professional advisor to ensure smooth incorporation.

FAQs

1. Can a non-resident incorporate a business in Canada?
Yes, non-residents can incorporate a business in Canada. However, some provinces require a Canadian resident director.

2. Do I need to live in Canada to register a company?
No, you don’t need to live in Canada, but some provinces require local representation at the board level.

3. What is the easiest province to register a company in for foreigners?
British Columbia and Alberta are the easiest for foreigners, as they allow 100% foreign ownership without resident director requirements.

4. What are the benefits of incorporating in Canada as a foreigner?
Benefits include access to the North American market, legal protections, business-friendly infrastructure, and strong banking systems.