Thinking of going national with your business? Whether you’re aiming to sell artisanal granola in every province or you’re launching the next big SaaS platform, federal incorporation in Canada might just be your golden ticket. And don’t worry – we’re going to walk you through the process without sounding like a law textbook or requiring three espressos to stay awake.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to incorporate federally, what it means, why it might be the right move for you, and how to do it without crying into your business plan.
Why Incorporate Federally?
So, why go federal instead of provincial?
Federal vs. Provincial: A Quick Showdown
- Federal Incorporation gives you the right to operate across all of Canada with name protection nationwide. It’s like having VIP access to every province.
- Provincial Incorporation (like in Ontario) is great if you only plan to operate in one province, but limits you to name protection in that region.
If you plan to scale, expand, or franchise across Canada – or just want that extra legitimacy – federal incorporation is your move.
Other Sweet Benefits of Federal Incorporation
- You can open offices in any province or territory.
- Business name protection Canada-wide.
- Increased credibility with clients, investors, and stakeholders.
- Your corporate information is published in a federal database (hello, transparency).
Step-by-Step: How to Incorporate Federally in Canada
Buckle up! Here’s your roadmap to incorporate federally without losing your sanity.
Step 1: Choose Your Corporate Name
Pick a name that’s memorable, legal, and not already taken (sorry, “Tim’s Tech Titans” might already be gone).
NUANS Name Search Time
You’ll need a NUANS report to check name availability. Federal incorporation requires this to ensure no one else across Canada has a similar name.
- Pro Tip: Use Instant NUANS to get your report quickly and easily. No one likes paperwork. Or waiting.
Step 2: Prepare Your Articles of Incorporation
You can file:
- Online via Corporations Canada (yes, the government finally embraced the internet). Although we advise to use the help of the filing masters – Canada Incorporation Agency, because we have years and years of experience and we already helped thousands of businesses just like yours to get incorporated. Another great news is that online incorporation can take just 2 business hours! Yes! That fast!
- By mail (if you enjoy stamps and slow timelines)
Your articles will include:
- Name of the corporation
- Province/territory where the registered office is located
- Number of directors (25% of directors must be Canadian citizens or Permanent residents).
- Share structure
Step 3: File with Corporations Canada
Go to the Canada Incorporation Agency website and fill out the application. It’s straightforward—promise. It will take no longer than half an hour. If you’re using a service, they’ll handle this part for you (which is highly recommended if paperwork gives you hives).
Filing Fee: As of now, it’s $200 Government fee + Agency Fees, if you file online.
Step 4: Create Your Corporate Minute Book
This is your legal binder of truth. It contains all the vital records, from your incorporation certificate to your bylaws and shareholder details.
Fun Fact: You can get a digital or physical version of Minute Book depending on how nostalgic you are for 3-ring binders.
Step 5: Register in the Provinces (Yeah, Still Necessary)
Federal incorporation is just the start. You’ll also need to register in the province(s) where you plan to operate.
For example:
- Doing business in Ontario? You’ll need to register with the Ontario Business Registry.
- Quebec? Bonjour, Registraire des entreprises!
This part isn’t optional—it’s the law. Don’t be afraid, Canada Incorporation Agency we do all the necessary registrations, if you incorporate through us.
Step 6: Get Your CRA Numbers
After incorporation, you’ll probably need:
- A Business Number (BN)
- GST/HST number
- Payroll account
- Import/export account
You can do this through the CRA’s Business Registration Online service.
Step 7: Maintain Your Corporation
Incorporating is just the beginning. You’ve also got to:
- File annual returns with Corporations Canada
- Keep corporate records updated
- Stay compliant with tax filings
Don’t ghost your obligations or your corporation may get dissolved. (Yes, that’s a thing.)
Real-Life Example: Going Federal with a Maple Startup
Let’s meet Aisha. She’s launching “Great North Snacks Inc.”—a line of maple-glazed protein bars she wants to sell across Canada.
Here’s how she incorporates federally:
- Name Search: She runs a NUANS search for her business name.
- Articles of Incorporation: She files online via Corporations Canada.
- Minute Book: She buys a digital minute book for convenience.
- Provincial Registration: She registers in Ontario and B.C. where she’ll be shipping first.
- CRA Setup: She registers for HST and gets her Business Number.
- Launches Nationwide: Now everyone from Halifax to Vancouver can snack maple-style.
Aisha’s story shows that federal incorporation doesn’t have to be complicated—and can open doors for coast-to-coast business dreams.
FAQs About Federal Incorporation
Is federal incorporation better than provincial?
Depends! If you plan to expand across Canada or want national name protection, go federal. If you’re only operating in one province, provincial may be easier.
Can non-residents incorporate federally in Canada?
Yes, but at least 25% of the board of directors must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
How long does federal incorporation take?
If you file online and everything’s in order, it can be done in 2 business hours. Not bad, eh?
Do I need a lawyer?
Not necessarily. Many entrepreneurs use incorporation services like Canada Incorporation Agency to handle it for them. But if your setup is complex, legal advice can help.
What’s the cost?
Government fees are around $200 for online filing. Add service provider fees on top (usually $300–$500).
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about scaling your business across Canada, federal incorporation is your passport to national credibility and protection. It’s more accessible than you think and sets you up for long-term success.
So, if you’re ready to incorporate federally, don’t wait—let the pros help or DIY like a champ. Either way, your future self (and future customers) will thank you.
Click here to start your federal incorporation today. You bring the dream—we’ll bring the forms (and maybe snacks).
Happy incorporating!
