Doing business in Canada
In many cases, expats doing business in Canada assume they'll encounter the same customs and practices that are 
commonplace in the US; and while there are some shared similarities, this nation claims its own unique business culture, with a number of noteworthy nuances to speak of.
Canada has a large and thriving free market economy, and though there is more government intervention than in the US, there is far less than in many European countries. Locals tend to be open-minded and tolerant, and it follows that expat business people can look forward to a welcoming environment.
Furthermore, as a testament to its solid infrastructure and transparent policies, Canada was ranked 7th (out of 183 countries) by the World Bank in its "Ease of Doing Business" listing. Specific business criteria that Canada ranks highly for include starting a business, dealing with construction permits, protecting investors, paying taxes, and closing a business.
Canada is massive country that claims an impressive multicultural make-up, but despite its size and diversity, expats can count on a few consistencies in its business culture.
Canadians value punctuality, and it is rude to be more than a few minutes late; however, it is also rude to arrive early. Handshakes are always appropriate greetings, although French Canadians may greet acquaintances with a kiss on the cheek.
Canadian management style tends to be less formal than in Europe, with managers preferring to be seen more as part of the team and less as aloof authority figures. Decisions ultimately rest with "the boss", but input across all levels is highly-valued.
Business dress in Canada is also less formal, especially in smaller businesses and in the West, although a suit and tie is appropriate in corporate meetings. Business etiquette in Canada dictates the use of formal titles, Mr and Ms on introductions, but Canadian businesspeople usually switch to a first-name basis fairly quickly.
As in the States, Canadians prefer a direct style of communication, though, they tend to be more reserved and less open in terms of showing emotion. Confrontation is studiously avoided, and aggression is looked down upon; but saying what you mean in a tactful and forthright manner is respected.
While Canada is predominantly English-speaking, it is an officially bilingual country, and French is the lingua franca in Quebec. It is advantageous to learn at least a few French phrases if doing business in Montreal.
Registering a business in Canada is a very easy process, with only one procedure to complete. Simply file for federal incorporation and provincial registration via Industry Canada’s online Electronic Filing Centre, which takes roughly five days to process.
Business language: English, French (Quebec)
Hours of Business: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, though longer hours are common
Dress: conservative and semi-formal, formal for corporate environments
Gifts: not expected, may be inappropriate
Gender equality: Women have the same rights as men, and are increasingly occupying more and more top-level positions.
commonplace in the US; and while there are some shared similarities, this nation claims its own unique business culture, with a number of noteworthy nuances to speak of.Canada has a large and thriving free market economy, and though there is more government intervention than in the US, there is far less than in many European countries. Locals tend to be open-minded and tolerant, and it follows that expat business people can look forward to a welcoming environment.
Furthermore, as a testament to its solid infrastructure and transparent policies, Canada was ranked 7th (out of 183 countries) by the World Bank in its "Ease of Doing Business" listing. Specific business criteria that Canada ranks highly for include starting a business, dealing with construction permits, protecting investors, paying taxes, and closing a business.
Business culture in Canada
Canada is massive country that claims an impressive multicultural make-up, but despite its size and diversity, expats can count on a few consistencies in its business culture.
Canadians value punctuality, and it is rude to be more than a few minutes late; however, it is also rude to arrive early. Handshakes are always appropriate greetings, although French Canadians may greet acquaintances with a kiss on the cheek.
Canadian management style tends to be less formal than in Europe, with managers preferring to be seen more as part of the team and less as aloof authority figures. Decisions ultimately rest with "the boss", but input across all levels is highly-valued.Business dress in Canada is also less formal, especially in smaller businesses and in the West, although a suit and tie is appropriate in corporate meetings. Business etiquette in Canada dictates the use of formal titles, Mr and Ms on introductions, but Canadian businesspeople usually switch to a first-name basis fairly quickly.
As in the States, Canadians prefer a direct style of communication, though, they tend to be more reserved and less open in terms of showing emotion. Confrontation is studiously avoided, and aggression is looked down upon; but saying what you mean in a tactful and forthright manner is respected.
While Canada is predominantly English-speaking, it is an officially bilingual country, and French is the lingua franca in Quebec. It is advantageous to learn at least a few French phrases if doing business in Montreal.
Registering a business in Canada
Registering a business in Canada is a very easy process, with only one procedure to complete. Simply file for federal incorporation and provincial registration via Industry Canada’s online Electronic Filing Centre, which takes roughly five days to process.
Doing business in Canada: Fast facts
Business language: English, French (Quebec)
Hours of Business: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, though longer hours are common
Dress: conservative and semi-formal, formal for corporate environments
Gifts: not expected, may be inappropriate
Gender equality: Women have the same rights as men, and are increasingly occupying more and more top-level positions.
Dos and don’ts of business in Canada
- DON’T assume everything is the same as in the US.
- DO be prepared with facts and figures.
- DON’T use aggressive sales tactics.
- DO learn some French if doing business in Quebec.
- DO avoid personal discussions at business meetings.
