Ontario Limited Partnership (LP) in Canada — Import / Export & Trading Formation Guide
Choose a jurisdiction with strong logistics infrastructure, favorable customs agreements, and access to major trade blocs (like the EU or US). Consider VAT deferral schemes and free trade zones.
Last verified: June 13, 2026
Corporate Tax
0.0%
State Tax
0.0%
Formation Cost
$155
Annual Fee
$0
Forming a Ontario Limited Partnership (LP) in Canada as a Import / Export & Trading means a total tax burden of 0.0% and an official formation cost of $155. There is no minimum capital requirement. Standard formation takes 2-3 business days, or 1 business day expedited. No local director is required; the process can be managed remotely. This guide covers the steps, tax breakdown, banking options, and compliance requirements — all from verified data.
First-year total cost
≈ $320
Ongoing (per year)
≈ $150
Why Ontario Limited Partnership (LP) for Import / Export & Trading?
A business model focused on sourcing goods from one country and selling them in another. Success relies heavily on supply chain efficiency, customs compliance, and navigating international trade tariffs.
Ideal for
- Physical product brands
- Wholesalers and distributors
- Dropshippers scaling to bulk inventory
- Cross-border B2B traders
Challenges to watch
- Complex customs and import duties
- High shipping and logistics costs
- Cash flow management due to inventory delays
- Regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions
Key decision criteria
- Proximity to major ports or logistics hubs
- Availability of Free Trade Zones (FTZs)
- VAT and sales tax registration requirements (e.g., EORI in the EU)
- Double taxation treaties between sourcing and selling countries
Ontario Limited Partnership (LP) formation requirements
Minimum capital
None
Standard timeline
2-3 business days
Expedited timeline
1 business day
Local director
Not required
Registered office
Virtual office allowed
Notarization
Not required
There are no residency requirements for the General Partner or Limited Partners. They can be individuals or corporations from anywhere in the world.
Estimated breakdown (based on avg. $1,000,000 revenue)
Simulate with your own revenue →
VAT / Sales Tax
Standard rate 13%. Registration threshold: 30,000 CAD. Non-resident digital service providers must register for and collect GST/HST if their sales to Canadian consumers exceed CAD 30,000 over a 12-month period.
Banking & payments for Import / Export & Trading
Opening a traditional bank account (e.g., RBC, TD) for an Ontario LP with only non-resident partners is highly challenging and typically requires an in-person visit. However, non-resident founders can easily open business accounts remotely using fintech platforms like Wise Business, Airwallex, or Loop.
Supported payment gateways
Remote-friendly accounts
Wise Business
Excellent for non-resident LP partners. Offers multi-currency accounts (CAD, USD, EUR, GBP) and can be opened entirely remotely.
Airwallex
Great alternative for global e-commerce and SaaS businesses. Provides local CAD and USD account details with low FX fees.
Loop
A Canadian fintech platform tailored for cross-border businesses, offering multi-currency accounts and corporate cards without monthly fees.
Canada incentives & advantages
SR&ED (Scientific Research and Experimental Development) Program
Up to 35% refundable tax credit on eligible R&D expenditures for Canadian-controlled private corporation (CCPC) partners, or 15% non-refundable for others.
Ontario Limited Partnership (LP) formation steps
Choose a unique business name and obtain a NUANS Name Search Report (valid for 90 days).
Draft and sign the Limited Partnership Agreement (LPA) outlining partner roles, liability, and profit distribution.
Secure an Ontario registered office address, which is legally required for the registration.
File Declaration Form 3 under the Limited Partnerships Act with the Ontario Business Registry.
Pay the CAD 210 provincial registration fee to the Ontario government.
Receive the 9-digit Ontario Business Identification Number (BIN) and official registration documents.
Apply for a Canadian Business Number (BN) with the CRA if required for tax, payroll, or import/export purposes.
Open a business bank account using fintech platforms like Wise Business or Airwallex to manage global payments.
Import / Export & Trading FAQ
Do I need a company in the country I am importing to?
Not always. You can often act as a Non-Resident Importer (NRI), but having a local entity can simplify customs, VAT registration, and local banking.
What is an EORI number and do I need one?
An Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number is required for businesses importing or exporting goods into or out of the European Union.
Should I incorporate in a Free Trade Zone (FTZ)?
FTZs offer tax exemptions and simplified customs procedures, making them ideal if you plan to re-export goods without them entering the local domestic market.
Ready to form your Ontario Limited Partnership (LP)?
Trusted formation partners are coming soon.
Related guides
Complete Ontario Limited Partnership (LP) guide
Taxes, requirements, banking, compliance
Ontario Limited Partnership (LP) cost calculator
One-time and annual cost breakdown
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