Italian entrepreneurs are increasingly expanding beyond Europe to access stable markets, diversified revenue streams, and long-term growth opportunities. Canada has become a preferred destination due to its predictable legal framework, strong investor protections, and direct access to North American markets. For Italian founders, company registration in Canada is legally structured, transparent, and often possible without frequent travel.

Canada’s attractiveness is backed by investment data. In 2024, Canada attracted a record USD 85.5 billion in foreign direct investment, marking its strongest performance in a decade and a 36% increase year-on-year, even as global FDI declined.

For those exploring how to register a company in Canada from Italy, the process is accessible with the right structure and guidance. Italian entrepreneurs can establish a compliant Canadian presence efficiently while positioning their business for international growth.

Can You Register a Company in Canada from Italy?

Yes, Italian entrepreneurs can legally register a company in Canada from Italy. Canada welcomes foreign investment and does not require business owners to be Canadian citizens or permanent residents to incorporate a business. You can choose between federal incorporation through Corporations Canada and provincial incorporation in jurisdictions such as Ontario, British Columbia, or Alberta. Both options allow full foreign ownership, though director residency requirements vary depending on the structure you choose.

Why Start a Business in Canada from Italy?

Incorporating in Canada provides Italian businesses with legal stability, international credibility, and access to key trade agreements. These advantages make Canada a strategic base for North American operations.

  • Economic and Political Stability: Canada consistently ranks among the world’s most stable economies with transparent regulatory frameworks, strict rule of law, and business-friendly government policies.
  • Advanced Banking System: Canadian financial institutions offer sophisticated business banking services, credit facilities, and international payment systems that support global operations.
  • Immigration Opportunities: While incorporation alone does not grant residency, operating a successful Canadian business can support applications through various business immigration programs and Provincial Nominee Programs.
  • Time Zone Advantages: Canada’s time zones provide better overlap with North American business hours, facilitating real-time communications with U.S. partners and clients compared to operating from Italy.
  • Credibility Enhancement: A Canadian business registration signals commitment to North American markets and enhances credibility with international stakeholders who recognize Canada’s reputation for business integrity and regulatory compliance.

Types of Business Structures in Canada for Italian Entrepreneurs

Italian entrepreneurs can choose from several business structures when incorporating in Canada.

  • Federal Corporation: Incorporated under the Canada Business Corporations Act, federal corporations can operate nationwide. They require at least 25% of directors to be Canadian residents. The incorporation fee is CAD 200 for online applications.
  • Provincial Corporation: Incorporated under provincial laws, these structures are ideal if operations focus primarily on one province. Ontario and British Columbia provincial corporations do not require Canadian resident directors, making them highly accessible for Italian entrepreneurs. 
  • Extra-Provincial Registration: If you incorporate federally or in one province but operate in another, you must register as an extra-provincial corporation in each additional jurisdiction.

For most Italian entrepreneurs, a provincial corporation in Ontario or British Columbia offers the best combination of accessibility, liability protection, and operational flexibility.

Step-by-Step Process to Register a Company in Canada from Italy

Registering a Canadian company from Italy follows a structured legal process with clear sequencing. Careful planning at each step helps avoid delays and compliance issues.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure

Decide between federal or provincial incorporation. Provincial incorporation in Ontario or British Columbia is often the most straightforward option for Italian entrepreneurs, as these provinces allow 100% foreign directors.

Step 2: Select Your Business Name

Choose a unique name that includes a legal element such as “Limited,” “Ltd.,” “Incorporated,” “Inc.,” “Corporation,” or “Corp.” Conduct a NUANS report for federal corporations or equivalent name search for provincial registration.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documentation

Gather valid identification (passport) for all directors and shareholders, proof of address, and corporate structure details, including share classes and registered office address.

Step 4: Appoint Directors

Federal corporations require at least 25% Canadian resident directors. Provincial corporations in Ontario and British Columbia allow only Italian residents as directors.

Step 5: Establish a Canadian Registered Office

Every Canadian corporation must have a registered office address in Canada. This must be a physical address where legal correspondence can be received.

Step 6: File Articles of Incorporation

Submit your Articles of Incorporation with required fees through Corporations Canada for federal incorporation or the relevant provincial registry.

Step 7: Obtain Your Certificate of Incorporation

Receive your Certificate of Incorporation confirming legal existence. Federal corporations typically receive certificates within 1-4 business days for online filings.

Step 8: Register for Business Number and Tax Accounts

Apply for a Business Number from the Canada Revenue Agency. If annual revenue exceeds CAD 30,000, GST/HST registration is mandatory.

Step 9: Maintain Corporate Records

Keep corporate records at your registered office, including Articles of Incorporation, bylaws, resolutions, and minute books.

Requirements for Italian Entrepreneurs

Italian entrepreneurs incorporating in Canada must meet both personal and corporate compliance requirements. Preparation in advance helps avoid delays during incorporation and banking. Italian entrepreneurs must provide:

  • Identification Documents: Valid Italian passport and government-issued identification for all directors, officers, and shareholders with notarization or certification.
  • Proof of Address: Recent utility bills, bank statements, or government correspondence confirming current residential address in Italy.
  • Registered Office in Canada: A physical address in the province of incorporation, which service providers can supply.
  • Director Appointments: Canadian resident directors if incorporating federally or in provinces with residency requirements.
  • Business Number Registration: Application to the CRA for your unique business identifier.
  • Initial Return Filing: Several provinces require an initial return within 60 days of incorporation.

Cost of Incorporation in Canada from Italy

Understanding the complete cost structure helps Italian entrepreneurs budget appropriately: 

Federal Incorporation

  • Government filing fee: CAD 200
  • Business name protected nationwide
  • Requires 25% Canadian resident directors
  • Additional provincial registration is required where the business operates

Provincial Incorporation (Government Fees)

  • British Columbia: CAD 350 + CAD 30 name approval
  • Alberta: CAD 275 + CAD 30 name approval
  • Saskatchewan: CAD 265 + CAD 60 name search
  • Manitoba: CAD 350 + CAD 45 name search
  • Ontario: CAD 300 + CAD 60 name registration
  • Quebec: CAD 378 + CAD 25 name search
  • New Brunswick: CAD 290 (includes name search)
  • Nova Scotia: CAD 200 + CAD 70 name search
  • Prince Edward Island: CAD 305 (includes name search)
  • Newfoundland: CAD 300 + CAD 300 name search
  • Yukon: CAD 345 (includes name search)

Provincial incorporation limits name protection to that province only.

Additional One-Time Costs to Expect

  • Name search reports (if not included): CAD 25–300
  • Professional document preparation (lawyers or service providers): CAD 500–3,000+
  • Extra-provincial registrations (if operating in multiple provinces): fees vary by province
  • Shareholder agreement (if multiple owners): typically CAD 500–1,000

Ongoing Annual Compliance Costs

  • Annual corporate return filings (federal or provincial): government fees vary
  • Corporate tax return (T2) filing: professional fees depend on complexity
  • GST/HST filings (if registered): ongoing compliance cost
  • Registered office services (for non-residents): annual fee required
  • Accounting and bookkeeping: varies based on transaction volume

Failure to meet annual filing requirements can result in late penalties or administrative dissolution of the corporation.

Opening a Business Bank Account in Canada from Italy

Banking is often the most operationally challenging step for Italian entrepreneurs incorporating in Canada. Non-resident ownership triggers stricter verification, documentation, and in-person requirements.

  • Banking Options: Canada’s major banks, including RBC, TD, BMO, Scotiabank, and CIBC, offer business banking to foreign-owned corporations. These institutions require extensive documentation for non-resident owners.
  • Documentation Requirements: Banks typically require Certificate of Incorporation, corporate bylaws, Business Number, directors’ resolutions, identification for directors and signing officers, proof of registered office, and business activity documentation. Italian directors need notarized or certified passport copies and proof of address.
  • In-Person Requirements: Most Canadian banks require at least one director to visit a branch in person. The account opening process typically takes 3-6 weeks from application to activation.
  • Alternative Solutions: Digital banking platforms and fintech companies may offer more accessible opening procedures for non-residents, though often with transaction limits. Payment processors like Stripe and PayPal can provide interim solutions while establishing traditional banking relationships.

Visas and Residency Considerations

Registering a company in Canada does not grant Italian entrepreneurs the right to live or work there. Business ownership and immigration status are legally separate.

  • Business Ownership vs. Residency: Italian founders can own and control a Canadian company while remaining resident in Italy, with no automatic immigration benefits.
  • Work Permits: Managing operations in Canada generally requires a work permit. Intra-Company Transfer permits and certain LMIA-exempt options may apply in limited cases.
  • Business Visitors: Italian citizens may enter Canada for short business activities without a work permit, but cannot perform hands-on work.
  • Immigration Programs: Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program closed in December 2025. Other pathways exist but have strict eligibility requirements and require professional advice.

Compliance and Ongoing Responsibilities

Canadian corporations must meet continuous compliance obligations:

  • Annual Returns: Federal corporations file annual returns with Corporations Canada, paying a CAD 12 fee. 
  • Corporate Tax Filing: All Canadian corporations must file T2 corporate income tax returns with the CRA annually, typically six months after fiscal year-end.
  • GST/HST Returns: Registered businesses file GST/HST returns monthly, quarterly, or annually based on assigned reporting periods.
  • Maintaining Registered Office: Corporations must maintain a registered office address in the province of incorporation.
  • Corporate Records Management: Maintain minute books containing articles of incorporation, bylaws, resolutions, and share registers.
  • Notice of Changes: File required notices when director or officer information changes or when corporate changes occur.

Failure to meet compliance obligations can result in penalties, late filing fees, loss of good standing status, or corporate dissolution.

Challenges When Registering a Company in Canada from Italy

Registering a Canadian company from Italy involves navigating legal, administrative, and operational differences across jurisdictions. Without local support, these challenges can delay incorporation and ongoing operations.

  • Documentation Complexity: Canadian corporate law differs significantly from Italian systems. Understanding required documentation, formatting, and terminology can be challenging without local expertise.
  • Time Zone Differences: The six-to-seven-hour time difference between Italy and Eastern Canada complicates communication with service providers and government agencies.
  • Banking Access: Establishing banking relationships presents significant challenges. Most Canadian banks require in-person verification, creating logistical difficulties for Italian entrepreneurs.
  • Director Residency Requirements: Federal incorporation’s 25% Canadian resident director requirement necessitates appointing Canadian residents or using professional director services.
  • Tax System Differences: Canadian corporate tax law, including GST/HST requirements and payroll taxes, differs substantially from Italian systems.
  • Physical Presence Requirements: Certain business activities may require physical presence or representation in Canada, demanding careful planning for remote management from Italy.

These challenges are manageable with proper preparation, professional guidance, and reliable service providers.

How Commenda Helps with Incorporation in Canada from Italy

Commenda understands the unique challenges Italian entrepreneurs face when establishing Canadian operations. Unlike traditional agents, Commenda offers a global-first incorporation platform that combines company incorporation services in Canada for all major structures, compliance and governance support, including annual returns and CRA filings, GST/HST and tax registration services for smooth operations, and cross-border expertise for foreign businesses entering Canada.

Commenda handles the complete incorporation process, from name search and document preparation to filing and certificate delivery. The platform addresses registered office services, director arrangements, and ongoing compliance management, ensuring Italian entrepreneurs can establish a professionally managed Canadian presence while focusing on business growth. Book a free demo today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I register a company in Canada from Italy without visiting?

Yes. Incorporation can be completed remotely, but most banks require at least one director to visit Canada to open a business account.

Q. Which business structures are available to Italian citizens in Canada?

Italian entrepreneurs can choose federal corporations (25% Canadian resident directors required) or provincial corporations in Ontario or British Columbia, with no residency requirement.

Q. How much does it cost to incorporate in Canada from Italy?

Government fees range from CAD 200 to 351.50. Professional services typically cost CAD 500–2,000, with additional legal and annual compliance expenses.

Q. Do I need a local partner or director in Canada?

Only federal corporations require Canadian resident directors. Provincial corporations in Ontario and British Columbia allow 100% Italian ownership and directorship.

Q. Can I open a Canadian business bank account from Italy?

It’s possible but difficult. Most banks require an in-person visit, extensive documentation, and 3–6 weeks for account activation.

Q. Does registering a company in Canada give me a work visa?

No. Business ownership does not grant work or residency rights. Immigration requires a separate application.

Q. What are the annual compliance requirements in Canada?

Corporations must file annual returns, corporate tax returns, GST/HST filings if applicable, and maintain registered office records.

Q. How long does it take to incorporate a company in Canada from Italy?

Incorporation takes 1–5 business days, but the full process, including banking, typically takes 4–8 weeks.