Canada

Why Canada

• A base for North AmericaCanada's 15 free trade agreements reach 51 countries, so a Canadian company can sell into its neighbours and into Europe and Asia from one base.
• AI and research talentMila in Montréal, the Vector Institute in Toronto and Amii in Alberta train a steady flow of AI specialists that local companies hire from.
• Lower cost than US hubsTech talent costs 30 to 35% less than in large US hubs such as Silicon Valley, with similar skills in software, AI and data.

Source: Invest in Canada, market access · Invest in Canada, technology

Priority sectors

Source: Invest in Canada

How companies enter

1. Step 1Soft landingA first trip as a business visitor, with meetings booked to test interest and meet partners.
2. Step 2PilotA paid pilot with a Canadian client or partner, often still billed from home.
3. Step 3Local companyA corporation, incorporated federally through Corporations Canada or in a province, once there is revenue or a team to hire.

The Start-up Visa Program was paused on June 30, 2026 and IRCC has announced a new pilot for immigrant entrepreneurs, so check its status first; for short trips, business visitors can attend meetings and conferences without a work permit.

Source: IRCC, Start-up Visa · IRCC, business visitors

Costs to plan for

• Incorporation, federal or provincial, and registration in each province where you operate
• Federal and provincial corporate tax, plus sales tax registration (GST/HST)
• Accounting, payroll and employer contributions
• Salaries and office space, which vary a lot from city to city

Source: Canada Revenue Agency · Corporations Canada, federal incorporation

Who can help