Federal Business Immigration Programs

1. Start-Up Visa Program 

   • Purpose: Targets innovative entrepreneurs with the potential to build businesses that can compete globally and create jobs for Canadians.
   • Eligibility: 
     • Obtain a letter of support from a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator).
     • Secure a minimum investment: $200,000 from a designated venture capital fund or $75,000 from an angel investor (no investment required if accepted into a business incubator).
     • Meet language proficiency requirements (minimum Canadian Language Benchmark [CLB] 5 in English or French).
     • Have sufficient funds to settle in Canada (varies by family size, e.g., approximately $13,000 CAD for a single applicant).
   • Outcome: Leads to permanent residency. Your status is not revoked if the business fails after approval.
   • Note: Ideal for those with scalable, innovative business ideas rather than traditional small businesses.

2. Self-Employed Persons Program

    
   • Purpose: Attracts individuals with significant experience in cultural activities or athletics who can contribute to Canada’s cultural or sporting life, or those who can be self-employed in other fields.
   • Eligibility: 
     • At least two years of relevant experience in the past five years (e.g., self-employment in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management).
     • Score at least 35 out of 100 points based on factors like experience, education, age, language skills, and adaptability.
     • Demonstrate intent and ability to be self-employed in Canada and make a significant contribution.
     • Sufficient settlement funds.
   • Outcome: Permanent residency.
   • Note: No minimum net worth or investment is required, making it accessible compared to other programs, but processing times can be lengthy.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) – Entrepreneur Streams

Many provinces and territories offer business immigration streams under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), tailored to their economic needs. Requirements vary, but common elements include:

• Minimum Net Worth: Typically ranges from $300,000 to $600,000 CAD, legally acquired.
• Minimum Investment: Often between $100,000 and $200,000 CAD in a new or existing business.
• Experience: 2–5 years of business ownership or senior management experience.
• Job Creation: Usually a requirement to create at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

Process: Applicants often start with a temporary work permit, then apply for permanent residency after meeting business performance criteria.