Canada offers several immigration pathways for entrepreneurs looking to establish or invest in businesses. The country encourages innovation and job creation through various federal and provincial programs. Below are the top programs available for entrepreneurs.
1. Start-Up Visa Program
The Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program is one of the best options for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas. It allows foreign entrepreneurs to obtain permanent residency (PR) if they secure funding or support from a designated Canadian investor.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Have a qualifying business with at least 10% ownership
- Obtain a letter of support from a designated organization (venture capital firm, angel investor group, or business incubator)
- Meet the minimum language requirement (CLB 5 in English or French)
- Have enough settlement funds to support yourself and your family
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) for Entrepreneurs
Several Provinces and Territories in Canada offer entrepreneur immigration streams through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). These programs typically require entrepreneurs to invest in or start a business in a specific province.
Best PNPs for Entrepreneurs:
- Ontario Entrepreneur Stream (Requires a net worth of CAD 400,000–800,000 and an investment of CAD 200,000–600,000)
- British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration (Requires a minimum investment of CAD 200,000 and net worth of CAD 600,000)
- Alberta Foreign Graduate Start-Up Visa (For international graduates looking to launch a business)
- Manitoba Business Investor Stream (Investment of CAD 250,000 in Winnipeg or CAD 150,000 in rural areas)
- Prince Edward Island Work Permit Stream (Requires an investment of CAD 150,000 and active business involvement)
3. Self-Employed Persons Program
The Self-Employed Persons Program is ideal for individuals in cultural, artistic, or athletic fields who can contribute to Canada’s economy. Unlike other entrepreneur programs, there is no minimum investment requirement.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must have at least two years of experience in self-employment or world-class participation in arts, culture, or athletics
- Show intention and ability to be self-employed in Canada
- Pass medical, security, and financial requirements
4. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Program
If you own a business outside Canada and want to expand, the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Program allows you to establish a Canadian branch and relocate key employees, including yourself.
Eligibility Requirements:
- The business must be active and operational for at least 1 year
- You must hold a managerial or executive role
- The Canadian branch must generate economic benefits
5. Canada Investor Programs (For High-Net-Worth Individuals)
While Canada’s Federal Investor Program is closed, Quebec offers an Investor Immigration Program for high-net-worth individuals.
Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP)
- Requires a net worth of at least CAD 2 million
- Invest CAD 1.2 million in a government-approved investment fund
- No active business management required
Which Immigration Pathway is Best for You?
- For innovative start-ups → Start-Up Visa Program
- For business investments → PNP Entrepreneur Streams
- For self-employed individuals → Self-Employed Persons Program
- For business expansion → Intra-Company Transfer
- For passive investors → Quebec Investor Program
Each program has unique requirements, so choosing the right one depends on your business experience, investment capacity, and long-term immigration goals.