Guide for Immigration to Canada from Nigeria: Business.

In recent years, Canada has been experiencing an upswing in business immigration programs for entrepreneurs, business owners, and self-employed individuals. If you are considering immigrating to Canada from Nigeria, then this article is for you. You will learn about official immigration programs for entrepreneurs and companies, which can lead to becoming permanent residents. Nigerians are well positioned to qualify for Canada’s immigration programs due to high English proficiency, education level, and work experience. We rely on our industry experience to provide you with the most up-to-date and exclusive information about business immigration to Canada.

Business Immigration Programs and Options from Nigeria

Nigerian entrepreneurs excited to launch or expand their businesses in Canada have many possible streams they can follow to obtain permanent residence and achieve their immigration goals. Economic immigration accounted for 76% of all Nigerians who came to Canada in 2019.

There are four Canadian immigration programs for Nigerian business owners and entrepreneurs. Each program allows applicants and their family members to become eligible for permanent residency, including those with a job offer. The minimum investment amount needed in business immigration programs leading to permanent residency in Canada can start at $100,000.

• Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) -This stream is the best fit for established Nigerian businesses that want to explore expanding to Canada with their teams and companies. Well-established domestic businesses can use this pathway to move key members of their company abroad. Nigerian nationals in Canada on ICT permits become eligible for numerous paths to apply for permanent residency after just one year of employment in Canada.

• Entrepreneur Work Permits – This pathway is for relatively small businesses with big ideas! Entrepreneurs, experienced managers, and high-net-worth individuals can start their own business in Canada or invest in an existing one. Nigerian entrepreneurs holding this work permit have the option of transitioning to Canadian permanent residence after 1 year of running their Canadian business. The business must be a qualifying business to meet the program’s requirements.

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): Many Nigerian entrepreneurs find that provincial programs best serve their specific needs. Many Canadian provinces and territories offer pathways for entrepreneurs to invest, establish, and work in a specific region. For Nigerians settling in Canada, the most popular provincial pathways have remained the Ontario PNP and Alberta PNP.

• Owner-Operator LMIA Program – for many years this pathway was a very popular option for Nigerian business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs hoping to expand to Canada. After the substantial changes to the program made in April of 2021, Nigerian entrepreneurs and skilled workers have been able to apply via the standard LMIA pathway. However, many have switched their sights to the more streamlined Entrepreneur Work Permit program.

• Start-Up Visa Program – This program allows entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas to obtain permanent residency. To be eligible, candidates must present a viable business plan that meets the due diligence requirements of government-approved designated entities, such as angel investors, venture capital funds, and business incubators. Investments from these entities must significantly support the qualifying business to facilitate the applicant’s transition to permanent residence. Candidates often require settlement funds starting at around $13,000 CAD to qualify for Canadian immigration.

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Pro Tips for Canada Visa Application in Nigeria

Even for the business-savvy, business immigration can be a complicated process. We’ve compiled some tips on how to apply for a Canadian visa in Nigeria and succeed in your business immigration application, starting with a comprehensive business plan :

Include Evidence of Commitment

Enter the Express Entry Pool

Entering the express entry pool is a vital step in Canada’s immigration system. Candidates submit their profiles to be ranked based on their skills and qualifications. Meeting the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirements is crucial, as it determines your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. This is especially important for Nigerian professionals looking to compete effectively in the pool, often requiring a labour market impact assessment. IRCC sets a 6-month processing service standard under Express Entry.

Include Extensive Financial Documentation

One of the most important requirements in any business immigration application is to demonstrate your financial capacity. The Canadian embassy in Lagos will very carefully review your application to assess your financial capacity. You must make a considerable effort to showcase sufficient liquid funds and family members’ funds that you can use to support your business in Canada.

You can show that capacity by including the following in your application: personal and corporate bank statements, stock/shares that you hold, savings account statements, tax returns, and much more. Visa officers will look for whether you have set aside enough funds for your business immigration and for any extra funds to cover unexpected expenses or operational costs. You should aim to show an additional CAD $100,000 in addition to your initial business investment. It is also beneficial to show evidence of personal and non-liquid funds.

Include Evidence About Relevant Experience

For your business immigration to have a higher chance of approval, you need to show evidence of relevant experience. Your relevant experience should be able to provide you with transferable skills to make you successful in your Canadian business, addressing the economic and demographic needs. Canadian embassy in Nigeria will look for ample evidence of relevant education, managerial, and industry experience. The IELTS or CELPIP tests are typically required to demonstrate English language proficiency for Canadian immigration.

It is in your best interest to include reference letters, evidence of business ownership, diplomas of additional training or course completion certificates, and any other documentation that would show that you have acquired skills that would help you succeed in Canada.

Include Evidence of Commitment

Foreign entrepreneurs and investors often don’t want to invest funds in their potential Canadian business without knowing whether they will be granted immigration approval. As business immigration lawyers, we completely understand that kind of thinking. However, to succeed in business immigration, you must demonstrate your commitment to your Canadian business plan, especially to immigration authorities.

There must be concrete evidence that you have put your money at risk and have taken serious steps to the completion of your business plan. You can show that by investing in a Canadian business, completing a commercial lease agreement, buying equipment, hiring employees, etc. It would not be enough to only register your business in Canada and submit your business plan. You need to show real evidence that you have reasonably committed to the execution of your business plan.

Best Business in Canada for Immigrants from Nigeria: Start-Up Visa Program

Nigerian businesses have historically been a boon to the Canadian economy and industry sectors. Nigeria has built an international reputation for its work in the sectors of oil and gas, maritime management, automotive and automation work, tech, and healthcare. As these businesses thrive and expand domestically, many professionals look to industry and manufacturing opportunities in Canada as their future business destination and a site for collaboration and innovation. In the tech sector, venture capital funds play a crucial role in supporting innovative businesses. Securing investment from these funds can facilitate business growth and immigration, making it easier for entrepreneurs to establish and expand their ventures in Canada.

Petroleum Industry

Nigeria and Canada share high levels of investment in the oil and gas industry. Nigerian companies with expertise in the sector find their acumen and experience warmly welcomed in Canada’s industry-friendly environment. Canada’s Deputy High Commissioner in Nigeria, Ryan Ward, stated that:

“We’re doing a lot of work to promote innovation linkages between our countries and are seeing increasing interest from Nigerian startups looking to grow in Canada…There is significant interest in both Nigeria and Canada in growing our mutual trade and investment relationship. Some of the sectors of greatest potential in Nigeria – particularly around the extractive industries – are areas where Canada has strong experience and leading technology solutions.”

Maritime Management

Nigeria is known for its maritime management sector, and in fact, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has been recognized internationally as an industry leader. Maritime trade accounts for 95% of the vehicular means of Nigeria’s international trade. The sector holds a similar significance in Canada, where marine trade dominates as a means of domestic and international trade.

Maritime management and marine industries are experiencing high demand following the COVID-19 pandemic and continued supply chain shortages. This sector has increased financial opportunity and will continue to grow.

Trades

Nigerians and Canadians both benefit from the strong trade relationship shared by these nations. Nigeria is Canada’s second-largest bilateral merchandise trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa. In 2014, this relationship was further cemented by the creation and signing of a Foreign Investment Protection Agreement (FIPA). It is yet to be ratified. In 2021, Nigerian imports reached CAD$2.1 billion, with primary imports being mineral fuels, oils, and cocoa.

Our Experience & Statistics for SMEs & Investors Entering Canada from Nigeria

Nigerian business owners, companies, entrepreneurs, investors, and startups have been a large part of our practice since the beginning. We have advised a number of Nigerian applicants on Canadian immigration options and the various business opportunities available. Below is a quick summary of facts that we have witnessed throughout the years:

• Average Investment Budget: Between CAD $150,000 – CAD $300,000. Federal economic programs can provide additional opportunities for investors.

• Average Approval Rate: 94%

• Most Common Destinations: British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta. Other federal economic programs can help address labour and demographic needs in specific regions.

• Average Processing Times: 2-3 months

Types of business:

• Automotive (sales, repairs, import/export, etc.)

• Franchised businesses (retail, marketing, food industry and professional services)

• Trade (furniture, oil and gas, petroleum, textiles, cocoa, fake hair, medical supplies, ethnic food, etc.)

• Tech services & consulting

Top reasons for rejection:

• Insufficient funds

• The potential success of the business in Canada

Success Stories from Nigeria to Canada

NIGERIAN ENTREPRENEUR BUYS AUTO-MAINTENANCE BUSINESS IN CANADA

John Doe, a Nigerian entrepreneur, recently purchased an auto-maintenance business in Canada. His journey to success is a testament to the opportunities available for immigrants in Canada. John initially moved to Canada through the Express Entry system, which allowed him to leverage his skills and experience in the automotive industry.

Another inspiring story is that of Jane Smith, who immigrated to Canada through the Self-Employed Persons Program. Jane had extensive self-employment experience in cultural activities, specifically as a professional dancer and choreographer. Recognizing the significant impact self-employed individuals can have in cultural sectors, the Self-Employed Persons Program provided her with a pathway to obtain permanent residency in Canada. Since moving, Jane has successfully established a dance academy, contributing to the local arts scene and mentoring young talent.

These success stories highlight the diverse pathways available for Nigerian immigrants to achieve their dreams in Canada. Whether through the Express Entry system or the Self-Employed Persons Program, Canada offers numerous opportunities for skilled and self-employed individuals to thrive.

Facts About Migrating to Canada from Nigeria for Canadian Permanent Residence

Nigeria and Canada have a more contemporary immigration history, dating to the 1970s, but in that period, the two countries have established a thriving and exponentially growing relationship. In the years between 2015 and 2019, the number of Nigerians becoming permanent residents in Canada more than tripled – rising from 4,090 to a high of 12,600. Ontario and Alberta are the most popular destinations for immigrants on business visas who are planning on relocating to Canada from Nigeria. There are various pathways available to obtain permanent residency through business immigration, such as the Entrepreneur Program and the Start-Up Visa Program.

Canada has a number of popular pathways for Nigerian business immigrants, whether they are starting up or simply expanding. Canadian businesses, industry professionals, and immigration programs all highlight the boon of Nigerian investment in Canada. Nigerian entrepreneurs are already reshaping and innovating Canadian industries. Business ownership can eventually lead to becoming Canadian citizens, providing a complete pathway from business establishment to citizenship.

Winnipegger Akeem Adebisi moved to Manitoba, Canada, in 2015 with his family from Nigeria. Upon arrival, he noticed that many in his Winnipeg community, citizens and newcomers alike, were struggling with financial planning and loan repayment. In response, the entrepreneur developed AjoPro, a “social money” app that puts the financial power back in the community’s hands and saw CAD$2 million in its first year.

“If you look at the response that people have been giving us on our Google, our Google Play or our Android Apple Store, you will see tremendous joy,” he said.

“It’s a feeling that, you know, one can’t really describe: the fact that you are making people happy, you are changing lives, you’re making people feel like they belong.”

Another story of Nigerian-Canadian resiliency and brilliance comes from Christine Eruokwu, a St John, Newfoundland local who runs an online clothing business. For every $50 spent in her store, she pledged to donate a uniform for schoolgirls in Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire and additionally offered a section for patrons who simply wanted to donate.

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent supply chain disruptions caused her business to struggle, rupturing her connection with her seamstress on-site in Nigeria and fighting to break even. Christine did what she does best and returned to the “why” of her business: to prioritize and empower girls to receive an education. She decided to alter her business model to provide blended options – printing African designs on Canadian fabrics, slowing processing times, and more. She plans to source African fabrics and patterns from inside Canada by connecting with African creators in the nation. In one media highlight on her business, Christine was quoted as saying the following:

“Very early, I always told myself that [sic] never give up until you’re sure that you can absolutely do this anymore…20 percent of new business shut down from the first to second year, and 45 percent shut down by the fifth year. I didn’t want to be one of those statistics. I decided to give it one more shot.”

She continued saying that what kept her going were her family and the girls. “I just got the report back, and, like, tears of joy were just streaming down my face,” she told Information Morning Saint John. “I think it was a great decision not to have sold the business at that time.” If she had, 300 girls in Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire would not have school uniforms.

Canada is not a new destination for Nigerian talent and innovation, but it remains a fertile and inviting space for investors, business owners, and entrepreneurs. Whether your journey is just beginning or you have years of experience behind you, we are certain Canada can provide you with the foundation to launch your business.

Resources for Nigerian Immigrants in Canada: Canadian Business and Community Support

Canada has a thriving Nigerian community and benefits from continued good relations with the nation itself. Nigerians in Canada might benefit from accessing any number of existing resources, including:

Nigerian Canadian Association – The NCA is a non-profit organization addressing the needs of Nigerian Canadians and other immigrants to Canada. The community-based and -facing service provides support in areas of housing, education, health, social services, cultural services, economic support, and more.

Nigeria High Commission – The High Commission in Ottawa offers “consular and visa services to Nigerian Citizens and intending visitors to Nigeria.

Nigerian Canadian Business Network – This organization is a networking group for Nigerian and Canadian businesses and professionals. Called “the voice of the Nigerian Business community in Canada”, the organization prides itself on personal and professional development and support.

Foreign Path – For those looking to study in Canada, a film created by Emmanuel Ilondior would be very inspirational and informational. In his movie, he tells his story about how he moved to Canada as an international student in 2003 and his subsequent adjustment to life abroad.