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Business Immigration to Canada: A Guide for Entrepreneurs

3 min read
Business Immigration to Canada: A Guide for Entrepreneurs

Canada offers several immigration pathways for entrepreneurs aiming to establish businesses and obtain permanent residency. The primary options include the Federal Start-Up Visa Program,  various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and the C11 work permit.​

1. Federal Start-Up Visa Program

This program targets immigrant entrepreneurs with the skills and potential to build innovative businesses in Canada that can create jobs and compete on a global scale. To qualify, applicants must:​

  • Secure a Letter of Support: Obtain backing from a designated organization approved to invest in or support start-ups.​

  • Meet Ownership Requirements: Each applicant must hold at least 10% of the voting rights in the business, with the applicants and the designated organization jointly holding more than 50%.​

  • Language Proficiency: Achieve a minimum of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 in English or French.​

  • Settlement Funds: Demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves and their dependents upon arrival in Canada.​

2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) for Entrepreneurs

Various provinces offer entrepreneur streams within their PNPs, each with specific criteria. Generally, these require a minimum investment (often starting at CAD 150,000 to 200,000), a detailed business plan, and a commitment to actively manage the business. 

Notable examples include:​

  • British Columbia (BC) Entrepreneur Immigration: Aimed at experienced business owners or managers who intend to invest in and actively manage a business in BC. Applicants must have a personal net worth of at least CAD$600,000 and be prepared to invest a minimum of CAD$200,000 in the business.

  • Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Entrepreneur Stream: Targets individuals from outside Canada looking to start a new business or buy an existing one in Ontario. Requirements include a minimum net worth of CAD$800,000 if the business is in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) or CAD$400,000 outside the GTA, and a minimum investment of CAD$600,000 in the GTA or CAD$200,000 outside the GTA.

  • Saskatchewan Entrepreneur Stream: Designed for entrepreneurs planning to establish or partner in a business in Saskatchewan. Applicants need a minimum net worth of CAD$500,000 and must invest at least CAD$300,000 in Regina or Saskatoon, or CAD$200,000 in other communities.

3. C11 Work Permit

The C11 Work Permit is a Canadian work authorization under the International Mobility Program (IMP) designed for foreign entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals who wish to establish or acquire a business in Canada. This permit allows holders to operate their business without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), typically for an initial period of two years, with the possibility of extensions.

To qualify for the C11 Work Permit, applicants must:

  • Business Ownership or Control: Demonstrate ownership of at least 50% in a Canadian business, either by starting a new venture or purchasing an existing one.

  • Relevant Experience and Skills: Possess the necessary background and expertise to successfully establish and manage the business in Canada. ​

  • Significant Benefit to Canada: Show that their business will provide substantial economic, social, or cultural benefits to the country, such as job creation or innovation. ​

  • Financial Stability: Have sufficient funds to support themselves and invest in the business venture. ​

Each pathway has distinct requirements and processes. Prospective applicants should assess their business goals, investment capacity, and personal qualifications to determine the most suitable route.

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