How much do I need to invest?

Requirements differ by stream and region, and are set by the responsible authority. There is no single national figure.

Do I need a Canadian partner?

Some streams contemplate partners or local ownership arrangements; others do not. It depends on the stream you pursue.

Is permanent residence immediate?

In many business routes you first operate the business on a work permit and apply for permanent residence after meeting agreed conditions.

Can you write my business plan?

We advise on immigration requirements and coordinate with your business plan writers or advisors. Commercial viability remains your responsibility.

Two entrepreneurs shaking hands in a modern Canadian boardroom

Entrepreneurs & investors

Business Immigration

Business routes reward substance: a credible venture, genuine involvement, and evidence that stands up to scrutiny.

Check Your Eligibility Book Appointment

Overview

What this pathway involves

Canada offers several routes for entrepreneurs and business people. At the federal level these include the Start-up Visa Program, which requires support from a designated organisation, and the Self-Employed Persons Program for certain cultural or athletic backgrounds, which has been subject to intake changes.

Provinces and territories also run entrepreneur streams, typically involving a business plan, a personal net worth threshold, an investment commitment, job creation, and often a period of operating the business under a work permit before nomination.

Business routes involve commercial as well as immigration risk. Independent legal, tax and accounting advice is usually appropriate alongside immigration guidance.

Who it may suit

This route is often considered by

Founders with a scalable venture seeking designated organisation support
Experienced business owners and managers considering provincial entrepreneur streams
Investors prepared to take an active, documented role in a Canadian business
Professionals in cultural or athletic fields exploring self-employed options

Key considerations

Things worth knowing early

Genuine, active involvement

Most streams expect hands-on management rather than passive investment, and monitor performance against commitments.

Capital, net worth and source of funds

Thresholds vary by stream, and the lawful source of funds must be traced with clear documentation.

Performance agreements

Provincial streams frequently require meeting agreed milestones before a nomination is issued.

Programs change

Intake caps, pauses and criteria revisions are common in business immigration. Planning should allow for that.

Process

How we work through it with you

Discovery and feasibility
We discuss your business background, capital position and objectives, and which routes may be realistic.
Stream selection
We compare federal and provincial options against your profile, sector and preferred location.
Documentation and coordination
We coordinate the immigration side of your business plan, net worth verification and supporting evidence.
Application and follow-through
We prepare the application and support you through interviews, milestones and any subsequent permanent residence stage.

FAQs