There are many Government departments and agencies that will be useful to you as you start-up a business in Canada. The following links will provide you with their contact information:
Canada Business
Canada Business is a government information service for businesses and start-up entrepreneurs in Canada. Canada Business reduces the complexity and burden of dealing with various levels of government by serving as a single point of access for federal and provincial/territorial government services, programs and regulatory requirements for business.
Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
CRA administers tax laws for the Government of Canada and for most provinces and territories. CRA also manages many social and economic benefit programs, which are funded through the Canadian tax system. Contact CRA directly to get answers to your tax questions.
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
CIC manages Canada’s immigration and refugee programs and policies. CIC also helps newcomers to adapt to Canadian society and become Canadian citizens. The department also controls access to Canada to protect the security and health of Canadians.
Contact information:
Canadian Visa Office close to you.
CIC Call Centre to get answers from the experts.
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC)
(HRSDC) provides all Canadians with the tools they need to thrive and prosper in the workplace and in their community. Services are available for both employers and employees. Contact an HRSDC Office close to you.
Industry Canada (IC)
Industry Canada’s policies, programs and services were created to develop a dynamic and innovative economy based on Canadian environmental and social values. It assures consumers, businesses and investors that the marketplace is fair, efficient and competitive. Following is an overview of some of the branches of Industry Canada that will be important when establishing a business a Canada.
- Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO)
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) is responsible for the administration and processing of most intellectual property law in Canada. CIPO's areas of activity include patents, trademarks, copyrights, industrial designs, and integrated circuit topographies. Contact CIPO’s customer service centre for more information.
- Investment Canada Act
The Investment Canada Act governs the review of significant investments in Canada by non-Canadians. The objective of the Act is to ensure that the investment will benefit Canada. Contact the Review Personnel for more information.
- Corporations Canada
Corporations Canada administers the Canada Business Corporations Act (CBCA), which governs all federal companies, except financial intermediaries. They issue and register official documents under the Great Seal of Canada through the Registration Section. Contact your local office or request a publication.
- Competition Bureau
The Competition Bureau promotes and maintains fair competition so that Canadians can benefit from lower prices, product choice and quality services. The Bureau is responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Competition Act, the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act, the Textile Labelling Act and the Precious Metals Marking Act. Contact your local office or the Federal Information Centre for more information.
International Trade Canada (ITCan)
ITCan supports the development of trade by providing services to exporters, developing policies, and by attracting investment in the Canadian economy. There are many branches of ITCan that will be important when you are establishing a business in Canada or doing business internationally.
- Export and Import Controls Bureau (EICB)
EICB authorizes the import and export of goods restricted by quotas and/or tariffs. It also monitors the trade in certain goods and ensures the personal security of Canadians and citizens of other countries by restricting trade in dangerous goods and other materials. Contact your industry specialist at EICB.
Foreign Affairs Canada (FAC)
FAC represents Canada around the world through embassies and trade offices, and participates in international treaties and partnerships. They promote Canadian values and culture on the international stage and strive to ensure the security and prosperity of Canadians within a global framework. Access the directory of Canada ’s diplomatic and consular missions around the world. Call Canada Toll Free from many countries around the world.
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
CBSA is part of the new portfolio of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, which includes crisis management, national security, corrections, policing, oversight, crime prevention, and border services. Contact the Border Information Service (BIS).