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Canada offers an investor visa that allows foreign entrepreneurs to obtain permanent residency and citizenship through federal and provincial investment immigration programs. Successful applicants will receive work permits to begin operating their businesses in Canada. If their business is successful, they may be eligible to apply for permanent residency and citizenship in Canada. This page provides detailed information about federal and provincial business immigration programs, the costs associated with obtaining an investor visa, and other important considerations for foreign entrepreneurs who are interested in business immigration to Canada.
What are Canada’s Investor Visa and Investment Immigration Programs?
Various immigration programs in Canada are tailored to foreign entrepreneurs, investors, and companies that make applicants eligible for permanent residency. As a result, there is no single Canada Investor program; instead, there are numerous options for investor immigration. These options can be divided into federal and provincial programs, described below.
Choosing the right immigration program, federal or provincial, will play a significant role in the success of your immigration strategy. Selecting the program most suitable for your business and your background is essential. Our free instant assessment tool will certainly help you make the right decision. If you need further guidance, you can always rely on valuable advice during our scheduled meeting with our top business immigration lawyers. During this meeting, you will get an honest and unbiased assessment of the immigration possibilities available to you.
Canada’s Federal Investor Programs
The following are business immigration programs that are created on the federal level.
Provincial Investor Immigration Programs
On the provincial level, Canadian provinces offer various immigration programs to invest and settle permanently in various parts of the country. These Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) are listed below.
- Managed by AAIP in collaboration with Alberta Agriculture and Forestry.
- Targets individuals with farm management skills and financial resources for investing in farming businesses in Alberta.
- Encourages the growth and development of the agricultural industry in the province.
- Designed for foreign-educated graduates from outside Canada.
- Allows graduates to launch start-up enterprises in Alberta and obtain permanent residence.
- Fosters innovation and entrepreneurial talent from around the world.
- Specifically tailored for international graduates from Alberta post-secondary institutions.
- Enables graduates to establish and operate businesses within the province.
- Supports the retention of talented individuals who have already studied in Alberta.
- Geared towards entrepreneurs interested in starting or purchasing a business in a rural Alberta community.
- Aims to promote economic growth and opportunities in rural areas.
- Encourages entrepreneurial investment outside urban centers.
- Establish or improve a new or existing business in B.C.
- Minimum investment of $200,000 in the business.
- Create at least one new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Minimum net worth of $600,000.
- Canadian Language Benchmark Level 4 proficiency in English or French.
- Business and/or management experience.
- Legal immigration status in Canada.
- Community Involvement: Communities actively participate in attracting and supporting foreign entrepreneurs.
- BC PNP Referrals: Communities can refer entrepreneurs aligned with their economic priorities.
- Community Concierge: Participating communities have access to dedicated BC PNP support.
- Invitations and Prioritization: Referred candidates register separately and receive priority processing.
- Population of less than 75,000.
- Located more than 30km from a municipality with a population of over 75,000.
- Capacity to support entrepreneurs with settlement and business support agencies.
- Completion of immigration and pilot-specific training by community representatives.
- Desire to start a business and settle in a B.C. regional community.
- Complete an exploratory visit.
- Minimum $100,000 investment in the business.
- Minimum personal net worth of $300,000.
- Ownership of at least 51%.
- Creation of at least one new job.
- Canadian Language Benchmark Level 4 proficiency in English or French.
- Foreign-controlled companies establishing an eligible business in B.C.
- Minimum equity investment of $500,000.
- Creation of at least three new jobs per proposed foreign key staff member.
- Establishment or purchase and expansion of a company in B.C.
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- The Entrepreneur Pathway is a program under Manitoba's Business Investor Stream.
- It is designed for experienced business owners and entrepreneurs who wish to start or purchase an existing business in Manitoba.
- Applicants must have a minimum personal net worth of $500,000 and be willing to make a minimum investment of $250,000 in a business in Manitoba's capital region (Winnipeg) or $150,000 outside of the capital region.
- A deposit of $100,000 must be made to the Manitoba government and will be refunded upon meeting the terms and conditions of a Business Performance Agreement.
- Applicants must have at least 3 years of business ownership or senior management experience, and they must actively participate in the day-to-day management of the business in Manitoba.
- They are required to submit a comprehensive business plan outlining their proposed business venture and its potential economic benefit to Manitoba.
- English or French language proficiency must be demonstrated through standardized language tests.
- A point-based system is used to assess applicants, taking into account factors such as age, language proficiency, business experience, education, and adaptability.
- The Farm Investor Pathway is another program under Manitoba's Business Investor Stream, specifically targeting individuals with farming experience and the intention to establish a farm business in Manitoba.
- Applicants must have a minimum net worth of $500,000 and make a minimum investment of $300,000 in a primary production farming business in rural Manitoba.
- A refundable deposit of $75,000 must be made to the Manitoba government, which is refunded upon meeting the terms and conditions of a Business Performance Agreement.
- Applicants must have a minimum of 3 years of farm ownership and operation experience or have a minimum of 5 years of farm management experience.
- They are required to submit a comprehensive farm business plan, outlining their proposed farming operations and their contribution to the provincial economy.
- English or French language proficiency must be demonstrated through standardized language tests.
- Similar to the Entrepreneur Pathway, the Farm Investor Pathway uses a point-based system to assess applicants, considering factors such as age, language proficiency, farming experience, education, and adaptability.
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- To be eligible for the Entrepreneurial Stream, applicants must have a minimum personal net worth of $600,000, with at least $300,000 in unencumbered, personal, and verifiable assets.
- Applicants must also demonstrate a minimum of 3 years of business ownership or 5 years of senior management experience in the last 5 years.
- Successful applicants under the Entrepreneurial Stream are required to make a minimum investment of $250,000 in a New Brunswick business.
- They must also actively participate in the day-to-day management of the business and hold at least 33.33% ownership.
- Eligible applicants must have completed at least 2 years of full-time studies in a post-secondary program in New Brunswick and have a valid post-graduation work permit.
- To qualify, applicants must also meet the minimum language requirements and demonstrate a genuine intention to settle in New Brunswick.
- Successful candidates under the Post-Graduate Entrepreneurial Stream are not required to meet the minimum net worth and investment requirements of the Entrepreneurial Stream.
- Instead, they must present a business concept that is considered economically beneficial to New Brunswick and commit to establishing or purchasing a business within one year of obtaining a work permit.
- Applicants must have a net worth of at least $600,000 and be willing to make a minimum investment of $150,000 into a new or existing business in the province.
- Applicants are required to submit a detailed business plan outlining their proposed business venture and how it aligns with the economic priorities of Nova Scotia.
- As part of the application process, applicants are also required to undergo an interview with a Nova Scotia Office of Immigration representative to assess their suitability as entrepreneurs.
- Successful applicants will receive a 2-year work permit to establish and operate their business in Nova Scotia. After fulfilling the terms and conditions of the program, they may be eligible to apply for permanent residency in Canada.
- Nova Scotia's Entrepreneur Stream aims to attract individuals who can contribute to the province's economic growth, create employment opportunities for Nova Scotians, and contribute to the local community.
- The program offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to establish themselves in a vibrant and diverse province with a strong business environment, excellent quality of life, and access to various government support programs and resources.
- It is important for applicants to thoroughly research and understand the requirements and guidelines of the Entrepreneur Stream before applying, as well as seek professional advice if needed, to increase their chances of success in the application process.
- Minimum personal net worth of $600,000 acquired through legal means
- Invest a minimum of $150,000 into the business within 12 months of landing in the province
- The application fee is $10,000, refundable if the file is not accepted
- $7,500 refund if the file is declined or withdrawn before the interview; non-refundable if declined or withdrawn after the interview
- Minimum education equivalent to secondary school
- Age between 21 and 59 at the time of application
- Transferable management skills and past employment or business ownership experience
- Meet minimum language requirements (CLB/NCLC 4)
- Intend to live and work in PEI while actively managing a PEI-based company
- Attend an interview with the Office of Immigration
- Meet the terms and conditions of the Performance Agreement
- If invited to apply, submit the complete application package with supporting documentation and a $10,000 application fee
- Designed for experienced entrepreneurs who want to establish, acquire, or partner in a business in Saskatchewan.
- Requires a minimum net worth of $500,000, which should be legally acquired.
- Applicants must invest a minimum of $300,000 in a new or existing business in the province. Alternatively, $200,000 in regional communities outside of Regina and Saskatoon.
- Successful candidates receive a temporary work permit initially and can apply for permanent residency after meeting the program requirements.
- Aimed at individuals with farming experience and sufficient capital to establish a farm in Saskatchewan.
- Requires a minimum net worth of $500,000.
- Applicants must make a minimum investment of $150,000 in Saskatchewan farming operations.
- Candidates must demonstrate relevant farming experience, such as knowledge of farm operations and management skills.
- Successful applicants receive a temporary work permit initially and can apply for permanent residency after fulfilling the program requirements.
- Targets international graduates who have completed at least one academic year of full-time study in Saskatchewan.
- Requires candidates to establish a new business or acquire an existing one in Saskatchewan.
- Applicants must own at least one-third of the equity in the business or invest a minimum of $200,000 if purchasing an existing business.
- Candidates must commit to actively managing the business on a daily basis.
- After operating the business for at least 1 year, applicants can apply for permanent residency.
- Intend to start and operate an innovative business in Quebec.
- Obtain a service offer from a support organization such as a business accelerator, incubator, or university entrepreneurship center.
- The support organization must demonstrate its capacity to support your business project.
- Submit a business plan with your immigration application.
- Score at least 41 out of 85 points on the selection grid.
- Obtain an attestation of learning about democratic values and Quebec values.
- Intend to practice your profession or business activities in Quebec.
- Have a minimum net worth of at least $100,000.
- Demonstrate the legal origin and accumulation of your net worth.
- Have at least 2 years of self-employment experience in the intended profession or trade.
- Make a start-up deposit with a financial institution ($25,000 outside CMM, $50,000 within CMM).
- Obtain an attestation of learning about democratic values and Quebec values.
- Score 63 out of 107 points (70 out of 120 if including accompanying spouse) on the selection grid.
- Obtain the legal right to practice if in a regulated profession.
Our Experience with Canada Investor Visa Applications
When it comes to investment immigration, our lawyers have a successful track record of approvals. You can read about our investor visa experience and perhaps find cases similar to yours!
“We have seen how Canada’s immigration system rewards proactive planning, entrepreneurial activism, and innovative thinking. Our foreign entrepreneur clients who embrace challenges, creativity, and a laser focus on business progress have achieved remarkable success in their immigration journeys. Canada’s investor immigration programs embody the nation’s commitment to fostering innovation and rewarding entrepreneurial spirit. They offer an unparalleled opportunity for foreign entrepreneurs to thrive within a vibrant ecosystem that fuels growth and propels businesses to new heights. We take immense pride in witnessing our clients’ achievements, which serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide, highlighting the abundant rewards that await those who dare to think differently and forge their path to prosperity in Canada.” – Rakhmad Sobirov
Federal vs Provincial Investment Immigration Programs
As a business immigrant, you have a wide selection of possible investor visa pathways. Depending on your business goals, some immigration schemes may suit you better. It is important to compare and see whether a federal or provincial program would be the best for you, your business, and your family.
| Federal Investor Programs | Provincial Investor Programs | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | CAD $250,000 to CAD $350,000 recommended | $350,000 recommended CAD $250,000* - $1,000,000 Plus additional net worth requirements in each province *Some industry-specific programs don’t have qualifying investment requirements |
| Processing Times | 1 – 3 months | 6 – 8 months |
| Time to Permanent Residency | 2+ years | 2+ years |
| Family Members | Yes | Yes for some |
| Program Limit | No | Yes |
| Restrictions and Commitment | You need to show that you have sufficient liquid funds to execute your business plan. | Keep an eye out for restricted and preferred businesses in each provincial program! Most provinces restrict franchise businesses or prohibit certain automated businesses. Make sure to review the residency requirements and business commitment requirements for provincial programs to understand what your short- and long-term commitments will be. |
Who Should Apply to Investor Programs?
Every one of the above programs has its own eligibility requirements and application process, but most share some common elements:
- Operate a successful business or have enough funds to buy or start one in Canada;
- Have at least $250,000 that you can invest in your Canadian business;
- Possess necessary skills for business development and business management and
- Have the ability to use your business experience to build a business in Canada.
You can use our instant assessment tool to see if you fulfill the requirements for investor immigration and receive personalized advice during our consultation with you.
If you fall within the requirements of business immigration and you are from the United States, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, India, or any other country in the world – you are likely to receive approval for your business immigration application. In particular, if you are any of the below, you should consider Canada’s residence by investment programs:
- Investor
- Entrepreneur
- Self-employed person
- Executive or senior manager
- Skilled worker and professional
If you are unsure what kind of business or investment you’d like to do in Canada, research some investment immigration ideas to find suitable opportunities and inspiration.
Investor Visa Process: From Work Permit to Permanent Residency to Citizenship
Every business immigrant who comes to Canada through business immigration is eligible for permanent residency. When you first receive approval for your business immigration application, you will obtain a work permit as your Canadian company will employ you. You may become eligible for permanent residency after operating your business for at least a year. After receiving permanent residence, you can eventually qualify for Canadian citizenship.
The entire process of how to get an investor visa for Canada can be summarized as follows:
- Establish or buy a Canadian company – The first step towards obtaining an investor visa is establishing or purchasing a Canadian company. This company will serve as the platform for your entrepreneurial activities in Canada. It is essential to ensure that your business aligns with the requirements of the chosen business immigration program.
- Your Canadian company employs you – Once your Canadian company is established or acquired, it will employ you as an executive, manager, or business owner. This employment relationship is a crucial component of your application and establishes your eligibility for a work permit.
- Apply for a work permit through a business immigration program – With your Canadian company employing you, you can now apply for a work permit through a business immigration program. This work permit allows you to legally work and operate your business in Canada. The specific program you choose will depend on your eligibility criteria and long-term goals. Part of your application will include a comprehensive business plan.
- Operate your business in Canada for one year – After receiving your work permit, it is time to put your entrepreneurial skills to work and actively operate your business in Canada. Maintaining accurate records of your business activities during this period is important, as they will be required when applying for permanent residency.
- Apply for permanent residency – Once you have successfully operated your business in Canada for at least 1 year, you become eligible to apply for permanent residence. This application is typically made through the business immigration program you initially entered. The immigration authorities will review your business performance, financials, and compliance with the program’s requirements.
- Become eligible for Canadian citizenship – After obtaining permanent residency, you can work towards Canadian citizenship. The eligibility criteria for citizenship include meeting residency requirements, demonstrating proficiency in English or French, passing a citizenship test, and showing knowledge of Canadian history, values, and rights.
How Much Do You Need to Invest to Immigrate to Canada and Get Permanent Residence?
In our experience, you must invest between CAD $250,000 to $350,000+ to gain Canadian permanent residence and eventually citizenship as a foreign entrepreneur. With such an investment, you could apply for one of Canada’s investment immigration programs, under which you could become eligible for permanent residency after operating your business in Canada on a work permit for 1 – 2 years. The amount that you invest will largely depend on various factors such as:
- Type of Business – The amount you would invest during your business immigration may be lower or higher than CAD $250,000 to $350,000 simply because of the needs of your business. Some businesses require a significant upfront investment as with manufacturing or industrial production. On the other hand, some businesses may be easier to set up compared to others, for example, buying a convenience store franchise or a nail salon. Some business immigrants choose to expand their foreign business to Canada, while others prefer to purchase or invest in an existing Canadian business.
- Location – Canada is a vast country with a considerable market disparity from region to region. Bigger cities tend to require an investment on the higher end of the spectrum. For example, it may cost you CAD $180,000 to immigrate to Saskatoon by buying a business; in Toronto or Vancouver, it could add up to CAD $300,000. The difference in investment costs due to the location would be visible in real estate, staff, products, and service costs, to name a few.
- Competition – Understanding your competition will allow you to gauge the costs of your business immigration more precisely. Our lawyers have extensive experience helping foreign entrepreneurs immigrate to Canada and accurately estimating the costs. We have exclusive knowledge of Canadian markets and can help you more efficiently understand the competition you might face as a foreign entrepreneur. Book a 1-hour consultation to gain tailored insights about how business immigration can work for you.
- Viability and Permanent Residency – Once you are in Canada on a work permit operating your business, keeping your business viable is essential to switch to permanent residency. Only business owners with viable and successful companies can apply for permanent residence. Thus, for some, to keep or make their business profitable and viable may take more investment than other business immigrants. Again, this will depend on numerous factors. However, even if your business is unsuccessful and you are ineligible for PR, you can apply to extend your work permit and continue working on your business.
Advantages of Canada’s Citizenship by Investment Programs
You want to make Canada a new home for you, your business, and your family for numerous reasons. For instance:
- Canada has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world;
- You can qualify for permanent residence much faster than in other countries;
- Canada is multicultural and diverse;
- Society is highly accepting of all nationalities and cultures;
- Canada supports new businesses, and often, the government will provide subsidies and rebates for specific industry sectors;
- Canada has a free healthcare system, and
- Education in Canada is highly affordable and is of a very high standard.
How to Succeed in Your Canada Investor Visa Application
There isn’t one particular thing you must focus on that will make you successful in obtaining your investor visa. Each business immigration program’s requirements are different. This means that your application must be tailored toward the program that you are applying for. However, some general guidelines could increase the chances of a successful application, such as:
Documentation. The entire application process for any of Canada’s Investor Visas involves showing evidence to support your claims. For example, you must show evidence of your finances and/or your company’s financial statements to show that you have funds required for business immigration. For a successful application, you will have to provide documents for almost everything ranging from your education to the projected revenue of your Canadian company. Although the government provides a list of mandatory documents, it is always advisable to go above and beyond and provide immigration officials with all the additional documentation.
Commitment. One of the critical elements of a successful business immigration application is having evidence that you have already committed to executing your business plan. This means that you must invest in your Canadian business before submitting your application. This poses a risk to some foreign entrepreneurs because you are investing your money even before knowing whether you can move to Canada or not. However, immigration officials want to see that you have already started investing in Canada and not just promising to do so in the future. Evidence of your investment commitment can be securing a lease for your business, buying a business, buying essential equipment, or even hiring staff.
Professional Advice. Securing one of Canada’s Investment Visas through business immigration is not easy. Your immigration application will be subject to a highly detailed assessment by immigration officials. Thus, your application must be pristine. The stakes are high for business immigrants because you are investing your hard-earned money in a Canadian business with hopes of immigrating to operate that business. This is why it is crucial to have an experienced legal team to help you create an excellent case for your business immigration. You can schedule a 1-hour consultation with our lawyers, who will help you create the best immigration strategy for you and your business.
Family Members of Investor Visa Applicants in Canada
Many business owners want to immigrate to Canada with their families. You should note that your family members will be eligible to come with you through business immigration. Usually, your spouse or a common-law partner would receive an open work permit. Also, depending on age, your children would obtain study permits or temporary residence permits. Your children can benefit from Canadian education and choose to study an array of exciting subjects, go to law school in Canada, or medical school and pursue their dream careers. As the principal applicant, the family members will also be eligible for permanent residency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most asked questions based on our experience.
Can you get Canadian citizenship by investment?
The short answer is no. There are no immigration programs that allow you to buy Canadian citizenship. The long answer is yes; however, you are not investing in citizenship but instead investing in a Canadian business. Once you have a business in Canada, you will be eligible for a work permit to operate that business. After operating it for 1 – 2 years, you will become eligible for permanent residency, and after you fulfill the requirements, you will become eligible for Canadian citizenship.
Understanding that the investment alone will not grant you Canadian citizenship is crucial. The immigration programs that cater to business immigrants will put you on track to becoming Canadian if you fulfill numerous requirements. Do not be misled by any claims that you might see that offer Canadian citizenship for sale. Canada has never had such programs, and under the current immigration plan, there are no intentions of creating such programs.
How much money is needed for a Canada investment visa?
The minimum investment required for the Canada investment visa is between $250,000 and $350,000. However, according to federal immigration programs, there are no minimum or maximum investment requirements. How much you will invest will ultimately depend on the type of business you plan on operating in Canada, the location of your business, and the competition within your industry.
However, the investment amount is not the only criterion for obtaining a Canada investment visa. Other requirements include a minimum net worth, business experience, and language proficiency. Additionally, applicants must pass a medical examination and a security background check. If you are interested in applying for a Canada investment visa, it’s recommended that you seek the guidance of a reputable immigration lawyer who can help you navigate the complex application process.
Who is eligible for an investor visa in Canada?
To be eligible for an investor visa in Canada, you must:
- Start a new business or buy an existing business
- Invest between $250,000 and $350,000 into your business
- Have a detailed business plan
- Have business experience and business management skills
- Be able to transfer your skills and experience to Canada
- Genuine intention to operate a business in Canada
Eligibility for an investor visa in Canada is typically based on certain criteria established by the respective business immigration programs.
How to get an investment visa in Canada?
The process of obtaining an investor visa in Canada is as follows:
- Research Business Immigration Programs – Explore the various business immigration programs available in Canada, such as the C-11 Entrepreneur Stream, Start-up Visa, LMIA work permit, or Intra-Company Transfer. Determine which program aligns with your goals and which program you are most suitable for.
- Meet Program Requirements – Review the specific requirements of the selected program, including net worth, investment amount, management experience, and other criteria. Ensure that you fulfill the prerequisites and gather the necessary documentation.
- Prepare Business Plan – Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your proposed investment or business venture in Canada. Your business plan should demonstrate its viability, market potential, and economic benefits for Canada.
- Submit Application – Complete and submit your application for the chosen business immigration program, including all required documents and supporting evidence.
- Application Review and Processing – The IRCC will thoroughly review your application. This includes assessing your business plan, financial capacity, management experience, and other relevant factors. Responding promptly to requests for additional information or clarification during this process is essential.
- Receive a Work Permit and Operate Your Business – If your application is approved, you will receive a work permit to work and operate your business in Canada. Follow your work permit’s regulations and guidelines and establish a successful business presence in Canada.
- Apply for Permanent Residency – Once you have fulfilled the requirements specified by your chosen program, typically after operating your business in Canada for 1 to 2 years, you can apply for permanent residency. This involves submitting an application, supporting documents, and paying the necessary fees.
Can I get PR if I invest in Canada?
Yes, investing in Canada could lead to permanent residency. Several business immigration programs offer a pathway to permanent residence based on investment and entrepreneurial activities. For example, programs like the C11, SUV, ICT, and LMIA allow applicants to obtain work permits that could qualify them for permanent residency after fulfilling specific requirements. These requirements could be: operating a business for a certain period, creating jobs for Canadians, or other prerequisites. Understanding the specific requirements of the program you choose to determine your eligibility for permanent residency through investment in Canada is crucial.
What countries offer citizenship for investment?
Many countries offer immigration schemes that can lead to citizenship, often referred to as golden visas in Canada. For example, America’s EB-5 program is similar to Canada’s Entrepreneur C11 pathway. Both offer the same result, a Work Permit, then PR (green card), and eventually citizenship, but the process varies dramatically.
What are the benefits of federal investment programs?
There are various benefits of the federal programs, such as:
There are no mobility restrictions, and you can build businesses in any province and expand across different provinces as well;
No provincial residency requirements and more freedom to explore and adjust your business without breaching a business activity commitment list;
They focus more on attracting foreign investments and encouraging innovation/economic stimulus rather than mandating business success. You are not punished if your business fails as long as you genuinely work on and try executing your plan;
There are no industry restrictions. Some provincial programs are specifically geared toward fostering growth in specific industries. It may limit your access to them if you don’t fit into a particular sector/category;
Most programs have no minimum net worth or investment requirement – you need to show that you have sufficient liquid funds to execute your business plan.
Can you get Canadian citizenship by buying a property?
Current Canadian immigration laws do not allow foreign investors to gain citizenship by buying property. However, under federal and provincial investment immigration programs, purchasing a property can contribute to your immigration as an entrepreneur.
If you are a foreign entrepreneur and decide to start a business in Canada, the property you purchase can become part of your investment in the Canadian economy and your business. By no means will this land you Canadian citizenship. Instead, the investment in property may make your business more viable, allowing you to gain permanent residency in Canada, which could lead to citizenship.
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