What is Business Immigration?

Canada’s Business Immigration Program aims to promote economic growth and employment by attracting investors, entrepreneurs, and self-employed individuals from around the world. These individuals bring capital, business acumen, and entrepreneurial skills that help develop new commercial opportunities and expand access to international markets.

If you have business/managerial experience and a high net worth, you may be eligible to apply for a Canadian Immigration (Permanent Resident) Visa under one of the business immigration categories.

Business Immigration Sub-Categories

1. Entrepreneur Start-Up Visa Program

The Entrepreneur Program is for applicants who wish to start or control a business in Canada. Entrepreneurs must secure funding and support from a designated Canadian investment organization for a unique business idea.

Requirements:

• Net worth: At least CAD $300,000.
• Experience: At least two years of managing and controlling a percentage of a qualifying business in the past five years.

Once admitted to Canada, entrepreneurs must:

• Own and actively manage a business that contributes to the Canadian economy.
• Create jobs for others through their business.

Conditions for Entrepreneurs:

Entrepreneurs must control and manage a Canadian business for at least one year within three years of becoming a permanent resident. Once this condition is fulfilled, the restrictions are removed.

2. Immigrant Investor Venture Capital (IIVC) Pilot Program

The IIVC Pilot Program is designed for high-net-worth individuals who wish to invest in innovative, high-growth Canadian start-ups.

Requirements:

• Net worth: Minimum of $10 million.
• Investment: A non-guaranteed investment of $2 million over 15 years.
• Experience: Managed and controlled a qualifying business or managed at least five full-time employees in the past five years.

3. Self-Employed Persons Program

The Self-Employed Persons Program is for individuals who can generate their own income and contribute to Canada’s cultural, athletic, or agricultural sectors.

Requirements:

• Experience: At least two years of self-employment in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management.
• Contribution: Applicants must make a significant contribution to Canada’s culture, sports, or agriculture.

Self-employed applicants should demonstrate they have participated at a world-class level in cultural or athletic activities or have farm management experience.

If you need more information or want assistance with the Business Immigration Program, feel free to contact our Business Immigration Consultant in Canada. We're here to help with all your immigration needs.