Canadian Citizenship by Investment: A Complete Guide with Key Answers.

Can You Really Buy Canadian Citizenship?

If you are wondering about acquiring Canadian citizenship and whether it’s possible to buy Canadian citizenship, then this page is for you. Here, we will discuss the appealing yet mistaken idea of purchasing citizenship in Canada, often referred to as Canadian citizenship by investment, and offer practical and genuine alternatives. We will also explain how you can obtain Canadian citizenship through business immigration and determine whether you are an ideal candidate for this path.

No, you cannot buy Canadian citizenship or a passport under current immigration programs. There is no direct “Canada citizenship by investment” program. However, investment can lead to Canadian permanent residency, which is necessary before applying for Canadian citizenship. Essentially, under these investment immigration programs, you:

• Operate your business in Canada under a work permit.

• Gain permanent residency within 1 – 2 years of running your Canadian business.

• Become eligible for Canadian citizenship after being a permanent resident and residing in Canada for at least 3 years.

The programs are as follows: Canada Start-Up Visa, which is designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs to Canada, emphasizing requirements such as net worth, business ownership, business management skills, and job creation. To qualify for the Canada Startup Visa, applicants must receive support from a designated organization, which is an approved entity that endorses their business proposal.

As you can see, Canada is unlike the other countries where foreign residents can purchase citizenship, as with Cyprus. The concept of buying citizenship, especially the Canadian one, is a common misconception. What many people are referring to when talking about buying Canadian citizenship is, in fact, business immigration.

You can always learn about your immigration options and the immigration process by booking a 1-hour consultation with our lawyer by booking a 1-hour consultation with our lawyers to find out exactly how you can obtain permanent residency and citizenship in Canada through business.

What is Citizenship by Investment?

Citizenship by investment is a program that allows foreign nationals to obtain citizenship, and in many cases, dual citizenship may also be an option. in a country in exchange for making a significant investment in that country’s economy. These programs are designed to attract foreign capital and business acumen, fostering economic growth and development. Many countries offer investment programs citizenship and investment schemes with various investment option such as real estate, government bonds, or business investments, allowing applicants to choose the path that best suits their needs.

While many countries offer direct citizenship by investment, Canada does not have such a program. Instead, Canada provides a pathway to citizenship through various business immigration programs, which often include an investment application proces . These programs typically have a required investment amount and are designed to benefit the country’s economy. These programs require foreign entrepreneurs to invest in and actively manage a business in Canada, thereby contributing to the Canadian economy. By successfully navigating these business immigration programs, foreign nationals can eventually obtain Canadian permanent residency and, later, Canadian citizenship.

Alternatives to Buying Canadian Citizenship: Business Programs

As you know, you cannot outright buy Canadian citizenship, so you must be interested in the alternatives. The closest you will come to buying Canadian citizenship is if you immigrate through one of the investment immigration programs. These programs provide reliable pathways for foreign entrepreneurs and their families to gain permanent Canadian residence and, later, citizenship. The programs are:

• Intra-Company Transfer – this program requires you to expand your foreign business to Canada.

• C11 Entrepreneur Visa: This program requires you to invest in an existing Canadian business or start a new one.

• Start-up Visa : Under this program, you are required to have an innovative start-up company that investors back up.

• Provincial Nominee Programs , also known as Provincial Investor Immigration Programs, require you to commit to investing and operating a business in one of the Canadian provinces. For example, British Columbia offers specific investment requirements and unique opportunities for foreign entrepreneurs seeking to establish a business venture and obtain Canadian permanent residence.

• Quebec Immigrant Investor Program — Foreign investors may be eligible to apply for Canadian permanent residence if they satisfy the program’s requirements.

Investing in a business venture or a qualifying business through these programs is a key pathway to obtaining Canadian residence, as each program has specific requirements regarding investment amounts, business eligibility, and economic impact.

Eligibility Requirements for Canadian Citizenship

To be eligible for Canadian citizenship, applicants must meet several key requirements. Firstly, they must be at least 18 years old. They must also be a permanent resident of Canada, having lived there for at least 1,095 days (three years) within the five years preceding their application. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in one of Canada’s official languages, either English or French, and pass a citizenship test that assesses their knowledge of Canadian history, values, institutions, and symbols. Meeting the residency requirements is crucial, as is having a clean criminal record. These criteria ensure that new Canadian citizens are well-integrated into Canadian society and committed to contributing positively to the community.

Language Requirements for Canadian Citizenship

Your journey to Canadian citizenship includes a crucial stepping stone that opens doors to full participation in Canadian society. It is demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively in English or French. The government has created a clear, achievable pathway through the Canadian Language Benchmarks, alongside the knowledge test for potential citizens. (CLB) for English or the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) for French. Reaching CLB 4 or NCLC 4 across reading, writing, listening, and speaking isn’t just a checkbox. It’s your foundation for thriving as a Canadian citizen, accessing the services you need, and engaging meaningfully in your new community.

The good news? You have multiple pathways to prove your language proficiency, each designed to recognize the diverse educational journeys that bring people to Canada. Most applicants choose proven testing routes like the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) for English or the TEF (Test d’évaluation de français) for French – reliable benchmarks that immigration officers trust. Already completed your education in English or French? That accomplishment likely serves as compelling evidence of your language abilities. This language requirement isn’t a barrier. It’s your gateway to successful integration and long-term prosperity in Canada, setting you up for the meaningful future you’re building here.

Investment Options for Canadian Citizenship

Several investment options are available for those seeking Canadian citizenship through business immigration programs. One prominent option is the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program, which requires a minimum investment of CAD $1,200,000. This investment is returned after five years without interest. While some countries offer citizenship through investments in government bonds as an investment option, Canada does not provide this pathway.

Another option is the Start-Up Visa Program, which requires a further minimum investment amount of CAD $200,000 and is designed for innovative entrepreneurs with the backing of designated investors. Applicants to the Start-Up Visa Program must receive support from a designated organization, which may be an angel investor group or a business incubator, and this support is considered the required investment for eligibility.

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) offers another pathway, with a minimum investment requirement of CAD $500,000, depending on the province. Lastly, the Federal Investor Program, although currently suspended, historically required a minimum investment of CAD $1,200,000. These programs provide various avenues for foreign entrepreneurs to invest in the Canadian economy and work towards obtaining Canadian citizenship.

Minimum Requirements for Buying Canadian Citizenship

The requirements will largely depend on which investment immigration program you are choosing because, as you remember, you cannot buy Canadian citizenship or a passport. In general, you should aim to satisfy the following:

• Invest in an existing business or start a new one in Canada;

• Satisfy work permit requirements for your immigration program;

• Operate your Canadian business;

• Apply for Canadian permanent residency when eligible; and

• Apply for Canadian citizenship when eligible.

Applicants must first obtain permanent resident status and become permanent residents before they are eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship through these programs.

Successful applicants who meet the necessary criteria through these programs gain access to opportunities such as permanent residency and, eventually, Canadian citizenship.

It would be best if you remembered that each program is developed to stimulate the growth of the Canadian economy. These business immigration programs are formal investment schemes designed to ensure economic benefit and compliance. For this reason, your immigration application will vary drastically depending on your chosen investment program. For example, some programs may require you to clearly and in-depth outline the significant benefit your comprehensive business plan will bring, while others will focus on your existing foreign operations.

How Much Does It Cost to Buy Canadian Citizenship?

If you are wondering how much it costs to become a Canadian citizen, it will cost you between CAD $250,000 and $350,000. This range represents the required investment for most business immigration programs. You must remember that you are not actually buying citizenship. Instead, you are investing in expanding your foreign business to Canada, purchasing a business in Canada or starting a new one. It is crucial to consider the potential additional expenses that may arise when running a business to gain permanent residence in Canada. Ultimately, the outcome of your business immigration hinges significantly on the prosperity of your business. While managing your business on a work permit for a year can open up the opportunity for permanent residency, the underperformance or failure of your business could pose a risk to your permanent residency status.

Investors should also consider tax optimization strategies to maximize the benefits of their investment in Canada.

Quebec Citizenship Program

The “Quebec Citizenship Program” (officially known as “Quebec Immigrant Investor Program”) is a popular pathway for foreign entrepreneurs and investors seeking Canadian citizenship. This program requires a minimum investment of CAD $1,200,000, a step that successful applicants must navigate. , which is returned to the investor after five years without interest. In addition to the financial investment, applicants must meet specific criteria, including demonstrating proficiency in French and passing a citizenship test. The program is designed to attract experienced business people who can contribute to the economic development of Quebec.

Another option for entrepreneurs is the Quebec Entrepreneur Program, which has its own set of requirements such as a minimum investment amount, ownership stake in a Quebec business, relevant managerial experience, and language skills. Unlike the Quebec Citizenship Program, the Quebec Entrepreneur Program focuses on establishing or acquiring a business in Quebec and meeting regional-specific criteria and deadlines.

By meeting these requirements and successfully managing their investment, applicants can gain permanent residency and eventually apply for Canadian citizenship.

Canada Investment Visa

The Canada Investment Visa is tailored for foreign entrepreneurs who wish to invest in the Canadian economy. This program requires a minimum investment of CAD $200,000 and is aimed at individuals who can bring significant economic benefits to Canada through their business ventures. Applicants must invest in a qualifying business venture that meets specific program criteria, such as demonstrating economic impact and financial stability. Applicants for Canada investor visas must also meet language requirements and demonstrate proficiency in either English or French. For the Start-Up Visa program, support from a designated organization is required for eligibility. The Canada Investment Visa offers a clear pathway to permanent residency and, subsequently, Canadian citizenship. By investing in Canada, foreign entrepreneurs contribute to the growth of the Canadian economy and gain the opportunity to build a new life in one of the world’s most prosperous and welcoming countries.

Is Immigrating to Canada through Business Ownership for You?

Business immigration is not for everyone, and contrary to popular belief, it is not only for people who are experienced in owning and running their ventures. Whether you are an experienced business owner or a highly skilled individual who has never owned a business, you could be eligible for immigration to Canada and gain citizenship through investment. Here are some examples of individuals that could be successful in business immigration:

• Senior managers with proven business management and development skills who want to start a new business or a franchise in Canada;

• Experienced entrepreneurs with an established foreign company that want to open a subsidiary in Canada;

• High-net-worth individuals who want to invest in an existing Canadian business and immigrate to Canada;

• Start-up founders with an established and innovative foreign company that want to continue scaling it up in Canada—Canadian business incubators can provide essential support for innovative entrepreneurs; or

• A variety of other individuals – if you are unsure if you qualify, you can always use our instant assessment tool or schedule a consultation with our business immigration lawyers.

Many programs also offer comprehensive support to guide applicants through the immigration and business development process.

What is the Best Business Immigration Program?

The best way for you to gain citizenship through a business immigration program will depend on your situation and your business goals. The best program for you will also depend on your preferred investment option and the specific requirements of each investment programs citizenship pathway. There isn’t a one-fits-all program that is considered better than others. The best program will be the one that can be perfectly tailored toward your needs and the needs of your business.

Application Process for Canadian Citizenship and PR

The pathway to Canadian citizenship through strategic investment represents one of the most rewarding journeys entrepreneurs can take. Whether you’re pursuing the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program, Start-Up Visa Program, or other business immigration pathways, success begins with smart preparation and meeting investment thresholds that open doors to Canada’s thriving economy. This means assembling compelling documentation—your investment proof, business strategy, and personal story—that demonstrates not just financial capacity, but your commitment to building something meaningful in Canada.

Once your investment gains approval and your application moves forward, the permanent residence phase becomes your launchpad toward citizenship. This stage involves straightforward requirements like medical assessments, background verifications, and financial documentation—steps that position you for long-term success in Canada. After securing permanent residence, you’ll build your Canadian foundation by establishing physical presence: 1,095 days over five years, time that allows you to truly integrate into the communities and markets where you’ll thrive.

The citizenship milestone caps this transformative journey through a knowledge assessment covering Canada’s rich history, core values, and democratic institutions, alongside language proficiency demonstration. These aren’t just bureaucratic hurdles—they’re gateways to understanding the country that will become your new home. By navigating each phase strategically and fulfilling investment commitments, you’re not just changing your citizenship status—you’re positioning yourself, your family, and your business ventures for generations of Canadian success.

Including Family Members and Dependents

Building a new life in Canada through investment immigration opens doors not just for you, but for your entire family. Your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children under 22 can join you on this transformative journey—and yes, older children facing physical or mental challenges that prevent self-support are welcome too. This isn’t just about meeting immigration requirements; it’s about creating opportunities for the people who matter most to live, study, work, and ultimately call Canada home alongside you.

Smart investors understand that programs like the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program and Start-Up Visa Program are gateways to something bigger than business success—they’re pathways to family prosperity. While you’ll need to meet the investment thresholds and demonstrate your qualifications, bringing your family along means everyone benefits from Canada’s world-class opportunities. Yes, each family member will complete health and security assessments, but think of this as the final step before your shared Canadian adventure begins. Take time to understand each program’s specific requirements, because getting this right means your entire family can build the future you’ve envisioned together.

Benefits of Canadian Citizenship

For some people, becoming a Canadian is one of the most sought-after goals in their lives! It is quite understandable as there are endless benefits to living in Canada, raising your children here, and running your business in this beautiful country. Canada also recognizes dual citizenship, allowing you to retain your original nationality while enjoying the advantages of Canadian citizenship. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why you’d want to become Canadian:

Family Goals – You may want to immigrate to Canada because you want to build a better life for yourself and your other family members. Access to free healthcare is particularly important for many as it contributes to social security. Not many countries have a widespread state-supported healthcare network. Suppose you want to attend university or want your children to study at a higher education institution. You are lucky because Canada has one of the world’s best universities and colleges. Free healthcare and an excellent education system are only a few reasons that may be on your family goals list. Canada has a very high standard of living that attracts many immigrants worldwide.

Business Freedom – Foreign entrepreneurs will find themselves in the perfect business climate when running their ventures in Canada. You see, there is plenty of support and a few unnecessary roadblocks to your business development. Grants and incentives given by the government and industry are out there to help your business prosper. Hiring the right employee or finding the right expert to help you grow your business is relatively easy due to a highly educated and experienced workforce. While you may already be setting your eyes on running a successful business in Canada, you must also remember there are a few obstacles to your doing so! Governments at all levels and the industry support new business owners and always attempt to reduce bureaucratic procedures.

Opportunities in New Markets – Growing your business has never been easier for Canadian business owners. When you immigrate to Canada as an entrepreneur, you and your company will benefit from numerous Free Trade Agreements to which Canada is a signatory. These FTAs allow you to conduct business with clients from other countries efficiently. Your company will not be subject to import or export tariffs, benefit from simplified international investment and tax regulations, and have other significant advantages depending on the FTA. As a Canadian business owner, the proximity to the U.S. and CUSMA FTA, in particular, will allow you to gain access to the U.S. market, potential clients, technology, and funding and investment opportunities.

We invite you to book a consultation with our lawyers to find out how you can obtain permanent residency and citizenship in Canada through business. Attracting new citizens through business immigration also contributes positively to the country’s economy.

Visa Free Travel with Canadian Citizenship

The passport in your hands becomes your gateway to unlimited possibilities—with Canadian citizenship, you’re not just gaining access to over 180 countries visa-free, you’re unlocking a world where opportunities flow as freely as your travel plans. Smart entrepreneurs and forward-thinking families understand this isn’t just about convenience; it’s about positioning yourself where global success happens. Whether you’re closing deals in Singapore, exploring partnerships in Europe, or reconnecting with family across continents, your Canadian passport removes barriers and creates pathways that matter.

This isn’t simply about travel freedom—it’s about building the life and business you’ve envisioned on a truly global scale. Savvy business owners recognize that Canadian citizenship offers something even more valuable: legitimate pathways to work and live in the United States under specific agreements, effectively doubling your North American market access. When you combine Canada’s exceptional quality of life with this unprecedented global mobility, you’re not just securing citizenship—you’re investing in a platform that amplifies every opportunity, every connection, and every ambition you’re working toward. This is why successful individuals and families worldwide view Canadian citizenship not as an endpoint, but as the strategic foundation for everything they’re building next.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below, you will find answers to the most commonly asked questions. Please note that Canada does not offer a traditional ‘golden visa’ program; instead, it provides alternative business immigration pathways, such as start-up and investor programs, for those interested in obtaining Canadian residence.

Can I get PR if I buy property in Canada?

Owning property in Canada does not automatically lead to obtaining Canadian residence or permanent residency. However, the Canadian government has introduced the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act, which may impose restrictions on foreign nationals buying residential properties in certain situations. This act is part of broader measures to address Canada’s housing affordability and availability issues. You should note that buying property in Canada could show a commitment to settling in the country and might marginally impact the adaptability section of some immigration applications. However, it does not provide any significant advantage in the process of obtaining Canadian residence through immigration pathways. Canadian immigration policies prioritize factors like work experience, education, language skills, and family ties in Canada for permanent residency applications. Owning property in Canada does not change these fundamental requirements for achieving permanent residency.

What are the success rates for obtaining permanent residency through each business immigration program?

In 2023, our firm reported a high success rate in our business immigration services, achieving an overall approval rate of 83.2%. We submitted over 200 business immigration applications and served clients from over 10 countries. Our success varied by program, with specific rates for different streams like Intra-Company Transfers for new companies, Entrepreneur C11 Streams for starting or buying a business, the Start-up Visa Class, and Permanent Residence Applications for Entrepreneurs & Business Owners. It’s important to note that past results may not necessarily indicate future outcomes, as each case is unique.

Are there any specific industries in Canada that are favourable for business immigration?

Yes, some of the most profitable businesses in Canada are particularly favourable for business immigration due to their profitability and growth potential. These industries include technology, especially IT and digital media, which are thriving sectors with a high demand for innovation and skilled professionals. The real estate market is also prominent, with significant opportunities in both residential and commercial properties. Other key industries are agribusiness, particularly in regions known for agriculture, and the energy sector, which includes renewable energy sources and traditional resources. Additionally, the mining industry remains a cornerstone of Canada’s economy, offering potential for investment and development.

What safeguards are in place to prevent misuse of the business immigration programs intended for gaining permanent residency or citizenship?

Canada’s business immigration programs have specific eligibility criteria to ensure applicants genuinely contribute to the economy and society. These criteria include relevant experience, a viable and detailed business plan, language proficiency, and sufficient settlement funds. The programs target different categories of business immigrants, such as self-employed individuals, start-up entrepreneurs, and provincial nominee entrepreneurs, each with tailored requirements. The focus on these factors helps to prevent misuse of the programs.

Work with a Trusted Canadian Immigration Experts

While you cannot directly purchase Canadian citizenship, the pathway through business immigration offers a legitimate and proven route to achieving your Canadian residency and citizenship goals. At Sobirovs Law Firm, we’ve successfully guided hundreds of foreign entrepreneurs through complex business immigration programs, achieving an 83.2% approval rate in 2023 across over 200 applications spanning Intra-Company Transfers, C11 Entrepreneur Visas, Start-Up Visa programs, and Provincial Nominee Programs. This article was authored by Rakhmad Sobirov, a licensed Canadian immigration lawyer and founder of Sobirovs Law Firm, who brings over 15 years of specialized experience in business immigration law.

Rakhmad and his team have helped entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries navigate Canada’s investment immigration landscape, from initial business plan development through permanent residency and citizenship applications. His expertise spans multiple industries including technology, real estate, agribusiness, and energy sectors, ensuring clients receive tailored strategies that align with both their business objectives and immigration goals. Whether you’re an experienced business owner looking to expand to Canada, a senior manager ready to start a franchise, or a high-net-worth individual interested in acquiring an existing Canadian business, our team provides the authoritative guidance and hands-on support necessary to transform your Canadian citizenship aspirations into reality. Don’t navigate this complex journey alone—book a consultation with an experienced team of immigration lawyers today to develop a customized business immigration strategy that maximizes your chances of success while protecting your investment and securing your family’s future in Canada.