Canadian Business Immigration
Canada and the provincial governments provide a number of business immigration options for those applicants who have business experience and are looking to immigrate to Canada.
The aim of Canada’s Business Immigration programs is to allow candidates with significant business experience, expertise and acumen to settle in Canada. The federal and provincial governments promote these programs with an aim of promoting economic activity, development and attracting self-employed, businessmen, investors and entrepreneurs with exceptional entrepreneurial skills and significant business experience.
Federal Self-Employed Program
Federal self-employed program provides opportunity for eligible candidates from foreign countries with relevant experience to settle themselves in Canada as permanent residents.
Eligibility criteria
Eligible candidates must possess relevant experience, ability and intention to contribute to Canada’s sports and cultural arena. In addition to meeting the eligibility requirements, they must achieve minimum passing marks (35 points out of 100) under the selection criteria of this program. The assessment is based on age, experience, adaptability, ability in French or English and education.
For this program, refundable deposit is not required; minimum net worth or investment and business plan are also not required. However, candidates must possess at least 2 years relevant athletic or cultural experience
Eligible occupations under this category include editors, authors and writers, journalists, librarians, translators, interpreters, painters, actors, dancers, musicians and singers, producers, directors and choreographers, and so on.
Start Up Visa Program
This program helps immigrants to establish their companies as entrepreneurs in Canada. Immigrant entrepreneurs can establish themselves in Canada as permanent residents with the Start-Up Visa program. Eligible candidates after successful entry can link with private companies for their expertise, guidance, and funding in establishing and running their business in Canada.
Eligibility Criteria
The aim of Start-Up Visa Program is to invite foreign immigrant entrepreneurs who have the potential to create new jobs and drive economic growth. Th eligible candidates must meet the minimum language requirements in English or French (CLB 5 in all abilities)
Eligible applicants must fulfil the following requirements:
- Possess adequate funds to settle in Canada;
- Have settlement plan in any of the province of Canada other than the Quebec
- Should pass medical and security clearances
- Only up to five persons may apply through this program as a part of the same business venture.
- Applicant should prove that their business is supported through a designated organization and it meets ownership requirements.
A designated Canadian venture capital funding company must invest up to $200000. If the funding is from angel investor group, it should be around $75000. Applicants don’t have to invest their own money. They can retain their permanent residence status granted through this program even if the start-up fails to flourish (unsuccessful).
Provincial entrepreneur program
Alberta Self-Employed Farmer Stream
British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) — Entrepreneur Immigration Stream
British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) — Entrepreneur Immigration — Regional Pilot
Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program — Business Investor Stream (Entrepreneur Pathway)
Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program — Business Investor Stream (Farm Investor Pathway)
New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) — Entrepreneurial Stream
New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) — Post-Graduate Entrepreneurial Stream
Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) — Entrepreneur Stream
Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) — International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
Northwest Territories Nominee Program — Entrepreneur Business Stream
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) — Corporate Stream
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) — Entrepreneur Stream