Nominee Director Services for International Clients
While provinces like Ontario and British Columbia have modernized their residency rules, the Federal Canada Business Corporations Act (CBCA) still requires that at least 25% of directors be resident Canadians.
For international businesses incorporating federally to secure a national Canadian brand, this creates a compliance hurdle. Our Resident Director Service bridges this gap.
We appoint a qualified Canadian director, a professional nominee, to your board solely to satisfy statutory requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you incorporate Federally (under the Canadian Business Corporations Act), yes—25% of your board must be Canadian residents. However, provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta no longer require resident directors. We can help you choose the right jurisdiction or provide a nominee if you choose Federal incorporation.
Yes. In Canada, directors carry significant liability for unpaid taxes and environmental damages. That is why our fees reflect the professional risk and high standard of diligence our nominees provide. We do not offer "straw man" directors; we offer professional governance.
No. While the director may need to be a signatory for bank compliance, we structure the banking resolution so that you (the beneficial owner) retain control over day-to-day transactions.
Yes. As a shareholder, you have the power to remove a director at any time. We also provide a signed, undated resignation letter upon appointment for your security.
Yes. The use of nominee directors is a standard practice in Canadian corporate law, provided it is done for legitimate business purposes and fully disclosed to banks and tax authorities (CRA).