Canadian Immigration News

What You Should Know About Business Immigration Before You Write It Off

3 minute read
Are you wondering if business immigration is a possibility for you? Canada offers numerous business immigration programs for hopeful immigrants at different levels of business experience that require different amounts of investment. Business immigration could be an option to become a permanent resident if you choose a path that works for you.
Written by My Visa Source Team
Published on:  May 10, 2023
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Are you wondering if business immigration is a possibility for you? Canada offers numerous business immigration programs for hopeful immigrants at different levels of business experience that require different amounts of investment. Business immigration could be an option to become a permanent resident if you choose a path that works for you.

Canadian Business Immigration Programs

You can explore business immigration programs in Canada under federal or provincial categories. There are many of these programs, and most have a few similar requirements. If you’re thinking of utilizing a business immigration program, you’ll need to consider the following:

  • Will you be starting or acquiring a business?
  • How much of an investment is required?
  • How much relevant experience do you need?
  • What is the minimum ownership percentage you can have?
  • Are there any mandatory residence or language proficiency requirements?
  • Do you need to make an exploratory visit?

Planning your business venture will take a lot of time and decision-making. You will need to assemble a clear and comprehensive business plan to accompany your immigration application, which means you will need to understand your business and how it will operate.

Federal Programs for Business Immigration

Two federal business immigration programs are the Federal Start-Up Visa Program and the Federal Self-Employed Program. The federal government of Canada runs these programs. 

One key factor to consider in the Federal Start-Up Visa Program is that there is no minimum required investment. However, you will need to get a commitment certificate or a letter of support from a designated Canadian organization.

The Federal Self-Employed Program is an option for anyone seeking to relocate to Canada for self-employed work in farming, cultural or world-class athletic fields. Individuals in this category need at least two years of professional work experience in their area of expertise.

Provincial Nominee Programs for Business Immigration

Most provinces in Canada offer a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) for immigration to a specific province or territory. Across the several PNP pathways, you will find several business-relation opportunities for immigration to different provinces and territories in Canada. Each province’s program will have different requirements, so be sure to explore the options that would be the best fit for you.

Quebec Programs for Business Immigration

The province of Quebec operates its immigration programs unique to other provincial programs. Quebec offers three primary business immigration programs for anyone looking to settle and work in Quebec.

The Quebec Self-Employed Worker Program is for individuals who will be creating their own job while living in Quebec. These immigrants need at least $100,000 in assets to meet eligibility requirements.

Through the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program, immigrants can relocate to the province of Quebec as an investor. This stream will, of course, require a much more significant investment in the province. However, you are not required to speak French.

With the Quebec Entrepreneur Program, applicants who wish to start or acquire a business can relocate to Quebec. This program provides two streams, one for new businesses or start-ups and another for those who will acquire and own a business.

Other Business Immigration Options

The above options are just some of the most prominent in Canadian business immigration, but there are still more ways you can come to Canada as a business immigrant. For example, you can visit Canada as a Business Visitor for a temporary stay.

Why You Should Consider a Business Immigration Program 

Many people are concerned about business immigration because they worry that their permanent resident status will be at risk if their business is unsuccessful. That is not the case! Your permanent residency does not depend on whether or not your business is successful. While different business immigration programs require different amounts of money to be invested, you can find an option that works for you. You will not always need a lot of experience and may not need to meet certain language requirements. Business immigration can be a viable pathway to Canadian permanent residence.

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