Canada - Market Entry and Legal Services

Lawyer & Law Firm in Canada

Canada offers limitless growth opportunities for foreign businesses. The country not only acts as a gateway to global markets but also offer highly skilled workforce, stability, and a very welcoming business environment. Canada is also considered an attractive market due to its proximity to the United States and Mexican markets. Major industries of the country include manufacturing, mining and oil and gas, construction, and finance.

Commercial Relations between India-Canada

Canada holds the position of the 18th largest foreign investor in India, with a cumulative investment of USD 3184 Million from April 2000 to December 2022. Canadian investments constitute 0.5% of the total FDI inflows into India. The bilateral trade in goods between the two countries reached USD 6.9 Billion in FY22-23, with India exporting goods worth USD 3.84 Billion to Canada and importing goods worth USD 3.42 Billion from Canada during the same period. Services and infrastructure sectors account for 40.63% of the total FDI investments from Canada to India.

Business Advantage for Indian Companies in Canada

Canada is an attractive destination for businesses due to its lower corporate tax rates compared to other countries. The comprehensive cost of operating a business, including labour, facilities, and utilities, is lower than countries like the UK, USA, Australia, Germany, and Japan. Canada also offers significant tax incentives for research and development (R&D) through the Scientific Research and Experimental Development Tax Credit. Additionally, Canada has a highly educated workforce, ranking second in terms of education globally, and is considered flexible in terms of labour laws. The country is also committed to transitioning to clean energy, aiming to phase out coal-fired power plants by 2030 and increase non-greenhouse gas emitting energy sources.

Incentives and Support Programs by Canada for Indian Companies

Canada offers several incentives and support programs for Indian companies looking to expand or establish a presence in the country. Here are some key initiatives:

• Global Skills Strategy (GSS) facilitates the quick and efficient entry of highly skilled foreign workers to Canada.
• Start-up Visa Program enables Indian entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas to immigrate to Canada and obtain permanent residency.
• Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) offers support and guidance to Indian companies exploring business opportunities in Canada.
• Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) Tax Incentive provides tax credits for research and development investments in Canada.
• Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) provide financial support and assistance to businesses in specific regions.
• Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) provide financial support and assistance to businesses in specific regions.
• Canada-India Acceleration Program (CIAP) supports Indian start-ups' growth in Canada through mentorship and market access.
• Participation in trade agreements offers Indian companies preferential market access and reduced trade barriers.

Starting a Business in Canada

The process of setting up a business in Canada mainly involves the following steps:

• Choosing a business name
• Registering and incorporating the business with the government
• Applying for all business permits and licenses needed for the activity
• Getting the support and required financing for your business

Visa and Immigration

To engage in business activities in Canada, individuals typically require the appropriate visa or permit. The most common visas used for business purposes in Canada are:

• Visitor Visa or Temporary Resident Visa
• Work Permit
• Start-Up Visa

Canada offers a favourable environment for investment across various sectors. With a stable economy, strong rule of law, skilled workforce, and access to global markets, Canada presents lucrative opportunities for both domestic and international investors. However, it is crucial for investors to conduct thorough market research, understand regulatory requirements, and seek professional guidance to maximize their chances of success.

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How Do We Help?

At India Law Offices (ILO), we strive to deliver exceptional legal services to our clients not just within India, but on a global scale. Over the past two decades, we have diligently expanded our presence by establishing strong partnerships, both formal and informal, with esteemed professionals from leading law firms in key commercial hubs worldwide. These alliances have empowered us to offer efficient and seamless representation of the utmost quality in any jurisdiction. Through our extensive network, we are able to cater to the diverse needs of our clients and ensure that they receive top-notch legal assistance across borders.

With a host of global affiliations with some of the largest law firms and legal networks, India Law Offices makes business possible worldwide for its clients. We provide comprehensive support to Canadian companies seeking to enter the Indian market. Our services encompass various aspects such as establishing subsidiaries or branches, navigating commercial contracts, and addressing any legal requirements. Additionally, we extend our expertise to Indian companies aiming to expand their operations in France, offering corporate assistance and legal support tailored to their specific needs. In collaboration with our Canadian counterparts, we are well-equipped to provide guidance on cross-border transactions between India and France, including mergers and acquisitions (M&A), joint ventures, and other related activities. We are committed to helping our clients navigate the complexities of Indo-Canadian business collaborations and achieve their desired outcomes. Our expertise extends to a wide range of areas, ensuring comprehensive assistance in various aspects such as:

• Corporate and M&A – Incorporation of Company, Branch Office, Merger & Acquisitions, Joint venture, Technical Collaboration, Taxation, Financial Reporting
• Commercial Contracts – Drafting & vetting of contracts like franchising, distribution, sales and marketing, licensing etc.
• Business and Civil Litigation – Representation before courts and judiciary bodies, Arbitration, Mediation
• Immigration – Obtaining Visa, Citizenship, Visa extension, Work Permit etc.
• Labour & Employment – Advice on Employment Laws, Tax implication on French nationals working in India, Drafting Employment Contracts & HR Policy
• Real Estate – Buying & Selling of Property, Development of real estate projects.
• Intellectual Property Rights – Trademark, Copyright & Patents registration
• Family Law and Inheritance – Cross border Divorce, Marriage Registration, Child Custody, Adoption, Drafting Will, Setting up Trust or Estate