Want to set-up your own business in Canada or want to expand an existing business? Canada offers extremely lucrative opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs. Thousands of businesspeople invest in Canada every year in a variety of industries – Information technology (IT), agriculture, tourism, healthcare, and many others.
To encourage business investment, Canada has business-friendly immigration policies. More than that, the ease of doing business naturally makes it an attractive destination. As a businessperson you can take advantage of numerous provincial programs, and the federal Canada Business Immigration Program.
At Kurzfeld Immigration Law Firm we help business owners and investors find the most cost-effective programs that achieve their goals. From filing the business proposal to guiding businesses during interviews/meetings with immigration officials, we take care of it all.
Learn more about the Permanent Residence options available through immigration programs.
- Investors
- Entrepreneurs
- Self-employed
- Provincial Nominee Programs for Businesses
Schedule a consultation with our lawyers today to discuss your best options.
Business Immigration - Investors
Investors are a highly sought after group of people because they can create jobs in the Canadian economy. The Start-up Visa Program is one of the best pathways for investors who don’t have investments/presence in the Canadian economy. Applicants under the investor pathway must meet certain criteria set out by IRCC:
- Must operate a qualifying business;
- Prove language skills in French and English (at least CLB 5);
- Show a letter of support from a designated institution demonstrating at least C$200,000 (Venture Capital Organization); or
- Show a letter of support from a designated institution demonstrating at least C$75,000 (Business Incubator or Angel Investor);
- Show sufficient funds to support themselves in Canada
You may need a Temporary Resident Visa or a Work Permit to visit Canada for funding purposes.
Entrepreneurs and Self Employed Persons
Canada encourages entrepreneurs to apply for its business immigration programs because of the huge potential to create jobs in the economy. Applicants who are successful gain permanent resident status, and are able to establish their own business.
The eligibility requirements for the Entrepreneur Program are not completely defined. There is scope for interpretation, which is why it is essential you take the help of a immigration lawyer.
Eligibility requirements for the Canadian Entrepreneur Program:
- Make a substantial investment in an existing business, establish a new business, or purchase an existing business in Canada within two years of coming to the country;
- The financial investment must be a ‘significant’ contribution to the economy;
- Participate actively in the management of the business;
- Employ at least one Canadian permanent resident or citizen, other than the entrepreneur or his/her dependents.
Entrepreneurs must also regularly report to immigration authorities about the progress of their business in the initial two year period.
The Self-Employed Persons pathway is similar to the Entrepreneur pathway. It is open to those who will make a ‘significant’ contribution to the Canadian economy, or the artistic or cultural life of Canada.The eligibility requirements are as follows:
- Show relevant experience (at least two years of experience in the past five years);
- Must show they can be self-employed in Canada;
- Meet other program selection criteria (exceed a total of 35 points); and
- Meet security, medical, and language conditions.
The Self-Employed pathway is a tough one to navigate because many applicants don’t know how best to show what they can offer. Speak to our immigration lawyers and find out what the IRCC is looking for.
Provincial Nominee Programs - Business Programs
Other than the federal Business Immigration Program, there are a number of Provincial Nominee Programs operated by provinces and territories. These are typically geared around the province’s economy and offer a wider range of immigration options, including such things as seasonal migration.
- Ontario
- British Columbia
- Quebec
- Manitoba
- Nova Scotia
- New Brunswick
- Northwest Territories
- Prince Edward Island
- Saskatchewan
The list of provinces and territories that offer business immigration programs is subject to change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is business immigration in Canada?
Business immigration refers to immigration pathways designed for entrepreneurs, investors, self-employed individuals, and business owners who want to establish, purchase, expand, or invest in a business in Canada while pursuing immigration opportunities.
Who can apply for business immigration in Canada?
Eligibility depends on the selected program. Business immigration applicants commonly include entrepreneurs, startup founders, investors, business owners, executives, and self-employed individuals who meet program requirements.
What business immigration programs are available in Canada?
Canada offers several business immigration pathways, which may include entrepreneur streams, investor-related options, Start-Up Visa opportunities, self-employed pathways, and provincial business immigration programs.
What is the Canada Start-Up Visa Program?
The Start-Up Visa Program is designed for eligible entrepreneurs who plan to build an innovative business in Canada and obtain support from a designated organization that meets applicable program requirements.
Do I need to invest money to immigrate through a business program?
Investment requirements vary by immigration stream. Some pathways require business investment, while others focus on innovation, business growth potential, or economic contribution rather than a fixed investment amount.
Can business immigration lead to permanent residence in Canada?
Yes. Certain business immigration pathways may provide opportunities to apply for Canadian permanent residence if applicants meet all eligibility and program conditions.
Can I immigrate to Canada by opening or buying a business?
Depending on the immigration pathway, applicants may establish a new business, expand an existing business, or purchase a business in Canada where program requirements are satisfied.
Are Provincial Nominee Programs available for business owners and investors?
Many provinces operate business-focused immigration streams that support entrepreneurs and investors who intend to contribute to local economic growth and establish operations within the province.
