The first step is identifying who will serve as director(s) of the holding company. Consulting a tax advisor is also strongly advised to ensure you fully understand the tax implications of establishing a holding company. The final step before establishing a holding company in Canada is registering a corporate name and drafting the articles of incorporation or corporation bylaws that will govern the holding company. Note that since holding companies are typically not “public-facing,” a numbered company will suffice and the choice is cosmetic rather than substantive.

Before starting the process of establishing a holding company, you’ll need to gather contact information for all directors and shareholders including legal name, date of birth, occupation, citizenship status, tax residency, mailing address, email address, phone number, and copies of government-issued photo ID.