15–25 days
Registration Timeline
100% Online
No India Visit Needed
Since Jan 2024
Canada in Apostille Convention
100% FDI
Allowed in Most Sectors
Why Canada-Based NRIs Are Setting Up in India
Canada has one of the fastest-growing South Asian diaspora communities. Many Canada-based NRIs are establishing Indian entities to access talent, serve the Indian market, or maintain business ties. Canada's accession to the Hague Apostille Convention in January 2024 has made the registration process significantly simpler compared to before.
- ✓Canada now in Apostille Convention — simpler document process
- ✓India-Canada DTAA prevents double taxation
- ✓Access India's deep tech and engineering talent
- ✓100% FDI under Automatic Route in most sectors
- ✓Startup India recognition and tax holiday benefits
- ✓Lower operational costs vs Canada
Step-by-Step Registration Process
From Canadian apostille to your Certificate of Incorporation.
01
Choose Your Business Structure
Canada-based founders typically register a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Wholly Owned Subsidiary. We advise on the best fit based on your sector, FDI policy, and ownership plans.
02
Apostille Canadian Documents
Canada joined the Hague Apostille Convention in January 2024. Documents can now be apostilled through Global Affairs Canada or provincial authorities, eliminating the need for Indian Embassy attestation.
03
Obtain DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)
All directors need a Class 3 DSC from an Indian certifying authority. The process is completed remotely — no India visit required.
04
Reserve Company Name via MCA RUN
We file your preferred company name through the MCA21 Reserve Unique Name (RUN) portal and confirm availability before proceeding.
05
File SPICe+ Incorporation Form
The SPICe+ (INC-32) form consolidates company incorporation, DIN, PAN, TAN, and GSTIN applications into a single submission to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
06
Receive Certificate of Incorporation
Once the ROC approves your application, you receive the Certificate of Incorporation, PAN, and TAN. Your Indian company is officially in business.
Documents Required from Canada
Since January 2024, Canada is part of the Hague Apostille Convention. Canadian documents apostilled through Global Affairs Canada or provincial authorities are accepted directly by Indian authorities.
Passport
Apostilled through Global Affairs Canada or provincial authority (since Jan 2024)
Canadian Address Proof
Utility bill or bank statement (apostilled), dated within 2 months
PAN Card (Form 49AA)
For foreign nationals — we assist with the application
DSC (Class 3)
Digital Signature Certificate — obtained remotely
Director Identification Number (DIN)
Allotted through the SPICe+ filing
Registered Office Proof
Virtual registered office in India available through us
Which Business Structure is Right for You?
Canada-based founders typically choose one of three structures.
| Structure | Best For | Min. Directors | FDI Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Limited Company | Startups, funded ventures, subsidiaries | 2 (1 resident) | Yes — Automatic Route |
| LLP | Consulting, professional services, small teams | 2 (1 resident) | Yes — with restrictions |
| Wholly Owned Subsidiary | Canadian companies expanding to India | 2 (1 resident) | Yes — 100% ownership |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register a company in India from Canada without visiting India?
Yes. The entire process is done online via the MCA21 portal. Since Canada joined the Hague Apostille Convention in January 2024, your Canadian documents can be apostilled locally — no Indian Embassy attestation needed, and no India visit required.
When did Canada join the Hague Apostille Convention?
Canada acceded to the Hague Apostille Convention and it came into force on January 11, 2024. This significantly simplified the document authentication process for Canadians registering businesses in India, as apostilled Canadian documents are now directly accepted by Indian authorities.
Is there a tax treaty between India and Canada?
Yes. India and Canada have a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) which prevents the same income from being taxed twice. This is relevant when income flows between your Canadian residence and Indian company.
Can a Canadian citizen own 100% of an Indian company?
Yes, in most sectors. India allows 100% FDI under the Automatic Route in sectors including IT, consulting, manufacturing, and e-commerce (marketplace model). Some sectors require prior government approval.
How long does it take to register a company in India from Canada?
Typically 15–25 working days once apostilled documents are ready. The apostille process in Canada varies by province but generally takes 5–10 working days.
My documents are in both English and French — is that an issue?
No. Documents in French need to be accompanied by a certified English translation for submission to Indian authorities. We can guide you on obtaining certified translations from Canada.
Ready to Register Your Indian Company from Canada?
We handle everything — apostille guidance, DSC, SPICe+ filing, and ongoing compliance. Book a free consultation today.
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