Business Immigration Program

Canada invites accomplished business professionals looking for new opportunities and challenges through the Business Immigration Program. This program aims to encourage and simplify the entry of these individuals. Both federal and provincial/territorial governments actively embrace business immigrants, providing support services to assist them in establishing businesses and integrating into Canadian society.

Applicants usually need to meet specific criteria related to their business experience, investment plans, language proficiency, and ability to support themselves and their families in Canada. The application process involves submitting detailed documentation, including business plans, financial statements, and a commitment certificate from a designated Canadian entity or government body supporting their application. 

Starting April 30, 2024, applicants must include their commitment certificate number when submitting their application through the permanent residence portal. It is crucial to submit the application before the commitment certificate and letter of support expire. Failure to comply with these guidelines will lead to the rejection of your application.

The eligibility criteria for applying to Canada's Business Immigration Program typically include:

Entrepreneurs: Individuals who plan to start or acquire a business in Canada and can contribute to the economy.

Investors: Individuals who can make a substantial financial investment in a Canadian business or government fund.

Self-employed Persons: Individuals who have relevant experience and intend to be self-employed in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management.

Start-Up Visa: Entrepreneurs who have a qualifying business idea and can secure support from a designated Canadian organization.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Some provinces have specific entrepreneur or investor streams within their PNPs.

Each category has specific requirements regarding business experience, investment amount, language proficiency, and the ability to support oneself and family members in Canada. 

The specific documents required for a Business Immigration Program application in Canada can vary depending on the specific stream under which you are applying (e.g., Start-Up Visa, Investor Program, Entrepreneur Program). However, generally, the following documents are commonly required:

Personal Documents
   - Passport or travel document.
   - Birth certificate.
   - Marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship (if applicable).
   - Police certificates from countries where you have lived for six months or more since the age of 18.

Education and Employment Documents
   - Educational credentials (degrees, diplomas).
   - Employment history and reference letters.
   - Resume or curriculum vitae (CV).

Business Documents (for Entrepreneur and Investor Streams)
   - Business plan outlining your proposed business venture (for Entrepreneur programs).
   - Proof of business ownership or investment in a Canadian business (for Investor programs).
   - Financial statements demonstrating your business experience and ability to invest or manage a business in Canada.

Language Proficiency
   - Language test results (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF, TCF for French) to demonstrate proficiency in either English or French.

Financial Documents
   - Proof of funds to settle in Canada, including personal net worth statements and evidence of funds transferability (for Investor programs).

Other Supporting Documents
   - Commitment certificate or letter of support from a designated Canadian entity (depending on the program).
   - Health examination results from an approved panel physician.

You can check current processing times on the IRCC webpage.