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Updated: April 24, 2025
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
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.
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:
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age | 21–59 years old |
| Language | CLB 5 or higher in English or French |
| Education | High school diploma or higher |
| Net Worth | $500,000 ($300,000 if investing in a farming business) |
| Experience | 2 of the last 5 years as a business owner (min. 51%), supervising 2 employees or a senior manager in a for-profit company and involved in day-to-day operations as a primary decision maker, supervising at least 2 employees. |
| Business Investment | Minimum $150,000 into a qualifying NB business |
| Job Creation | At least 2 full-time jobs for Canadian citizens or PRs |
| Exploratory Visit | Strongly recommended prior to submitting the EOI, required for agricultural business |
Points Assessment Grid
Applicants are assessed on a 100-point scale and must score at least 65 points to be eligible.
| Criteria | Maximum Points |
|---|---|
| Age | 10 |
| Language | 25 |
| Education | 20 |
| Business Ownership/Experience | 15 |
| Business Plan | 25 |
| Adaptability | 5 |
| Total | 100 Points |
A strong business plan and exploratory visit greatly influence your success.
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
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| ICT & Cybersecurity | Home to Canada's first Cyber Centre (Fredericton) |
| Tourism & Hospitality | Coastal attractions, national parks, and cultural festivals |
| Aquaculture & Fisheries | World-class seafood, including lobster exports |
| Forestry & Wood Products | NB’s top export sector |
| Manufacturing & Food Processing | Strong agri-food processing infrastructure |
| Healthcare & Seniors Care | Growing demand for clinics, services, and long-term care |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How We Can Help
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:
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Helping you build a strong local network across New Brunswick’s business communities
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Organizing your Exploratory Visit to New Brunswick to meet local economic development officers and assess viable opportunities
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Securing support letters or community endorsements from relevant stakeholders
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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.
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