Holding companies are generally not set up until an operating company is sufficiently profitable to generate income beyond what is immediately required by the entrepreneur to fund business or personal expenses. However, this is only a rule of thumb, and everyone’s specific circumstances are unique. For instance, in some cases, it can be more efficient to set up a holding company and an operating company simultaneously, particularly when it is clear that the operating company will be quickly generating substantial revenue - for example, when setting up a Personal Real Estate Corporation or other professional services entity with predictable revenue.

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.

Once all the required information is gathered, holding company formation can be processed as quickly as 3 to 5 business days. 

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.