New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program – Business Immigration Stream

Make Your First Step Towards Canada

New Brunswick

A Step-by-Step Guide to Your Successful Business Immigration Journey – 2025

This bulletin provides a comprehensive overview of the New Brunswick Business Immigration Stream, outlining key eligibility requirements, application steps, and support available for foreign entrepreneurs.

Moving to New Brunswick for Entrepreneurs

New Brunswick offers a welcoming environment for entrepreneurs with its affordable living costs, bilingual communities, and accessible government programs. Entrepreneurs benefit from strong community support, lower operating costs, and a high quality of life.

Key lifestyle benefits:

  • Community Support: Municipal programs and small-town spirit create a welcoming, supportive environment.
  • Lower Operating Costs: Affordable housing, labour, and utilities.
  • Bilingual Advantage: English and French speakers thrive in Canada’s only officially bilingual province.
  • Work-Life Balance: Short commutes, family-friendly amenities, and access to outdoor recreation.

 

General Facts About New Brunswick

New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program - Business Immigration Stream

Fun Facts:

  • Home to the highest tides in the world (Bay of Fundy).
  • Strong ties to Atlantic trade and immigration.
  • The oldest incorporated city in Canada is Saint John.

Fun Facts about New Brunswick

Who Can Apply?

Residency Commitment

Applicants must reside in the same city or community where their business is located and are expected to spend at least 75% of their time there until they obtain permanent residency, as required under the Business Performance Agreement. Failure to meet this condition may result in non-compliance and loss of nomination eligibility.

You may be eligible for the New Brunswick Business Immigration Stream if you meet the following minimum criteria:

Points Assessment Grid

Applicants are assessed on a 100-point scale and must score at least 65 points to be eligible.

A strong business plan and exploratory visit greatly influence your success.

New Brunswick province of Canada

Step-by-Step Application Process

Milestone 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)

  • Conduct an exploratory visit (optional, required if investing in an agricultural business)
  • Prepare business concept(s) and gather documentation
  • Submit EOI through the INB Portal
  • Wait for selection (based on points and business relevance)

 

Milestone 2: Invitation to Apply (ITA)

  • Receive ITA from GNB
  • Submit full application and non-refundable $2,000 fee
  • Provide a detailed business plan + third-party net worth verification

 

Milestone 3: Interview & Business Performance Agreement

  • Attend interview (virtual or in-person)
  • If approved, sign the Business Performance Agreement (BPA)
  • Receive a provincial Letter of Support for a work permit

 

Milestone 4: Work Permit and Business Establishment

  • Apply to IRCC for a work permit (based on LoS)
  • Arrive in NB and launch business within 12 months
  • Operate business for at least 12 months

 

Milestone 5: Nomination for Permanent Residency

  • Submit proof of business operation and job creation
  • If BPA terms are met, receive a nomination
  • Apply to IRCC for PR under the PNP stream

Total Time Estimate: 24 to 36 months

List of Required Documents

  • Valid passport and ID
  • Language test results (IELTS, TEF, etc.)
  • ECA report for education
  • Proof of net worth and liquidity
  • Business ownership or management documents
  • Detailed business plan (aligned with NB priorities)
  • Proof of exploratory visit (if conducted)
  • Police clearance certificates
  • Family documents (marriage, birth, etc.)

 

Business Opportunities in New Brunswick

 
SectorDescription
ICT & CybersecurityHome to Canada’s first Cyber Centre (Fredericton)
Tourism & HospitalityCoastal attractions, national parks, and cultural festivals
Aquaculture & FisheriesWorld-class seafood, including lobster exports
Forestry & Wood ProductsNB’s top export sector
Manufacturing & Food ProcessingStrong agri-food processing infrastructure
Healthcare & Seniors CareGrowing demand for clinics, services, and long-term care

Frequently Asked Questions about Alberta Advantage Immigration Program Rural Entrepreneur Stream

Can I change my business idea after submission?
You can submit a Request to Change Business Plan form within 3 months of arriving in Canada on your work permit. The province will consider your request but does reserve the right to refuse if changes are too broad or drastic.
No, but French language proficiency gives you an edge and can boost your point score.
An exploratory trip is only required if you intend to start or purchase an agricultural business. Otherwise, it is recommended, not required, though it may give you extra points towards your score.
 
Yes, as long as it’s a viable business that meets the program requirements with job creation potential and local economic impact.
Yes. Spouse and dependent children can join you on work/study permits and later be included in your PR application.
Failure to meet the terms of the BPA (including job creation) may result in ineligibility for nomination. Success is measured by compliance, not profit.
 
You must operate your business for at least 6 months and fulfill your obligations under the BPA before applying for your nomination.

How We Can Help

Immigration lawyer Rakhmad Sobirov guides entrepreneur on how to avoid start up visa denial by strengthening the business venture, securing a letter of support from a designated organization, and ensuring careful planning of the application process.

Navigating the New Brunswick PNP – Business Immigration Stream requires detailed market research, thoughtful community engagement, and a well-executed business settlement plan. Entrepreneurs must align with local development goals and demonstrate their capacity to contribute meaningfully to New Brunswick’s economy.

Once you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you typically have 90 days to prepare and submit your full Business Application — a process that can be complex, time-sensitive, and document-intensive.

We can support you during this critical stage by:

  • Helping you build a strong local network across New Brunswick’s business communities

  • Organizing your Exploratory Visit to New Brunswick to meet local economic development officers and assess viable opportunities

  • Securing support letters or community endorsements from relevant stakeholders

  • Connecting you with potential sellers or investment partners that align with your business goals and budget

Communities across New Brunswick — both rural and urban — play an active role in supporting new businesses. Local governments and economic development agencies welcome newcomers who bring innovation and economic benefits to the region.

Read a success story of an Indian entrepreneur who expanded his business to Canada and obtained permanent residency in only 4 months:
Success Story – Indian Business Owner’s PR Journey

We’re here to guide you through every phase of the New Brunswick Business Immigration Stream, from initial concept to permanent residency.