Business Immigration

5 Main Categories to Business Visas in Canada

Individuals with business/managerial experience and relatively high net-worth may apply for a Canadian permanent residence under the Canada Business Immigration Program in one of the following four sub-categories:

• Investors
• Entrepreneurs
• Self Employed Persons
• PNP Business Programs
• Corporate Immigration

1. Start-Up Visa Investor Program

When looking to immigrate to Canada as an investor, the best option available is to apply for the general Start-up Visa Program. You will have to meet certain requirements for your application to be successful by being innovative, creating jobs for Canadians and being able to compete internationally.

Requirements for Investors

To qualify for the Start-up Visa, applicants must:

• Have a qualifying business
• Demonstrate intermediate knowledge in both English and French (CBL5)
• Get a letter of support from a designated institution (Receive a minimum funding commitment of $200,000 CDN from a designated Venture
• Capital Organization, $75,000 from an approved Angel Investor, or Business Incubator)
• Bring enough money to settle in Canada

2. Entrepreneur Program

Because they create employment opportunities and contribute to the Canadian economy, entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply for this immigration stream. Successful applicants are able to open a business in Canada, as well as gain permanent residence status in the country.

Requirements for Entrepreneurs

To qualify for the Entrepreneur Program, applicants must:

• Establish, purchase or make a substantial investment in a business in Canada within 2 years of landing in Canada which will result in a significant contribution to the economy
• Engage in active and ongoing participation in the management of the business
• Employ at least one Canadian citizen or permanent resident other than the entrepreneur and his dependents.
• To ensure that these conditions are met, entrepreneurs are required to report to immigration officials their progress, on a regular basis within this two year period.

3. Self-Employed Persons Program

This business immigration stream is for those who will either establish or purchase a business in Canada that will make a “significant” contribution to the economy or the cultural or artistic life of Canada

Eligibility under Self-employed persons program:

• have relevant experience (at least 2 years experience in the last 5 years)
• be willing and able to be self-employed in Canada
• meet the program’s selection criteria (minimum 35 points) and
• meet medical, security and other conditions

Selection criteria is based on:

• – experience
• – education
• – age
• – language abilities
• – adaptability

Learn more about the Self-Employed Program.

4.PNP Business Programs

Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) offer pathways for business immigration tailored to each province’s economic needs. These programs require applicants to meet varying minimum investment and net worth criteria, alongside submitting detailed business plans demonstrating economic benefits. Experience in business management is a common prerequisite, with some provinces specifying a minimum years of experience. PNP business immigration enables individuals to start or invest in Canadian businesses, contributing to local economies and labor markets.

5. Corporate Immigration

Corporate Immigration is the perfect option for those who have started a business and are looking to expand their business to Canada. This immigration category was specifically designed for large, medium, and small companies that need to transfer their employees seamlessly across borders. There are vital legal steps to take when transferring employees to Canada. Through a variety of services, we help to coordinate the logistics of your travelers so that every employee arrives at their destination without any complications.