Start Up / Business Immigration

1. Startup Visa Program

The Startup Visa Program targets innovative entrepreneurs and aims to link them with private sector organizations in Canada that can help their startups succeed. Key requirements include:

• Qualifying Business: The business must be incorporated and carry on business in Canada, with essential parts of the operations taking place in Canada.
• Letter of Support: Entrepreneurs must secure a commitment from a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator).
• Language Proficiency: Applicants must meet the minimum language requirements in English or French (CLB 5 in speaking, reading, listening, and writing).
• Sufficient Settlement Funds: Proof of sufficient funds to support themselves and their family members in Canada.

2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Many Canadian provinces and territories have their own business immigration streams under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). These programs often cater to entrepreneurs, investors, and business managers. Some key PNPs include:

• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): Entrepreneur Stream
• British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP): Entrepreneur Immigration
• Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP): International Graduate Entrepreneur Immigration Stream
• Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP): Business Investor Stream
• Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP): Entrepreneur Stream

Each PNP has its own criteria, but generally, they require:

• A viable business plan
• Relevant business or managerial experience
• A minimum net worth and investment amount
• Active involvement in the management of the business

3. Self-Employed Persons Program

This program is for individuals who have relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics and intend to make a significant contribution to the cultural or athletic life of Canada. The key requirements include:

• Relevant experience (at least 2 years of experience within the last 5 years)
• Intention and ability to be self-employed in Canada
• Meet selection criteria (education, experience, age, language abilities, and adaptability)

4. Quebec Business Immigration Programs

Quebec operates its own business immigration programs with different criteria from the federal programs. The main streams are:

• Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP): For investors with a minimum net worth and who are willing to make a passive investment in Quebec.
• Quebec Entrepreneur Program: For entrepreneurs with a viable business project and who meet specific net worth and investment requirements.
• Quebec Self-Employed Worker Program: For self-employed individuals who can create their own job in Quebec by practicing a profession or trade.

5. Intra-Company Transferee (ICT) Program

This program allows international companies to transfer employees to their Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. Key points include:

• The transferred employee must have been working for the company for at least one year in the last three years.
• The position in Canada must be executive, managerial, or involve specialized knowledge.
• The transfer should help establish or expand the Canadian operations of the foreign company.