Overview

The Canadian Entrepreneurship Visa, often referred to under the Business Immigration Program, allows individuals with entrepreneurial skills and experience to immigrate to Canada by establishing, purchasing, or managing a business that contributes to the Canadian economy.

Key Features

• Visa Type: Permanent Residence (PR)
• Eligibility: Entrepreneurs with business management experience and sufficient investment funds.
• Processing Time: Varies between 12–24 months depending on the program and province.
• Programs: Different provinces offer specific entrepreneurship programs under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

Eligibility Criteria

1. Business Experience:
   • At least 2-3 years of management or business ownership experience.
2. Net Worth:
   • Demonstrate a legally acquired minimum net worth (varies by province).
3. Investment:
   • Commit to a minimum investment amount, typically between CAD 100,000 to CAD 600,000, depending on the province.
4. Business Plan:
   • Provide a detailed business plan demonstrating the potential to create jobs and contribute to the local economy.
5. Language Proficiency:
   • CLB 4 or higher in English or French (varies by province).
6. Active Involvement:
   • Commit to actively managing the business on a day-to-day basis.

Types of Entrepreneurship Programs

1. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP):
   • Programs tailored for specific provinces like British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta, and Nova Scotia.
2. Federal Business Immigration Programs:
   • Focused on self-employed individuals or entrepreneurs investing in startups.

Application Process

1. Research and Select Province:
   • Choose a province that aligns with your business goals and meets program requirements.
2. Expression of Interest (EOI):
   • Submit an EOI to the province of your choice.
3. Invitation to Apply (ITA):
   • If selected, the province will issue an ITA.
4. Business Performance Agreement:
   • Sign an agreement outlining the business goals and investment commitments.
5. Temporary Work Permit:
   • Obtain a temporary work permit to establish the business if required.
6. Permanent Residence Application:
   • Apply for PR once the business meets the performance agreement criteria.

Processing Time

• Provincial Programs: 12–24 months, depending on the specific province.
• Federal Programs: Typically 12–18 months.

Settlement Funds (2024)

Benefits

• Permanent residence status.
• Freedom to live and work anywhere in Canada after obtaining PR.
• Pathway to Canadian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
• Access to public healthcare and education.