FDI in figures

Investing procedures

Legal framework

Acquisition of holdings

Possible on condition of observing the in-depth procedure of examination of the project.

Obligation to declare

The foreign investment promotion bureau in the country gives information about the necessary authorizations for setting up a company. Canada is in the first rank of OECD countries as regards the low number of procedures (2) and the shortest time limit (3 days) imposed for setting up an industrial or commercial company. A foreign company can set up in Canada by creating a distinct legal entity or a subsidiary under Canadian federal law or a provincial law governing companies. A subsidiary is treated in the same way as a branch office. It must have a commercial permit or be registered with the province where it does business.

Local business incentives

The Canadian government offers several programs of fiscal incentives:
- Canadian Manufacturing and Processing Profits - Reduced Rate of Corporate Tax
- Investment Tax Credit
- Flow-Through Share Program
- Canadian-Controlled Private Corporation
- Federal Corporate Tax Rate Reductions.

The provincial governments also offer fiscal incentives; consult the websites of the 10 provinces or 3 territories: Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, North West Territories, Yukon, Nunavut.

Invest in Canada also provides useful information.

Investment aid agency

Business Development Bank of Canada
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
Canada Revenue Agency
Invest in Canada