Are you considering starting a business in Canada?
Canada is globally recognized as a top choice for entrepreneurs. With its strong economy, political stability, and high standard of living, Canada provides an optimal environment for business expansion and innovation. Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or just starting, Canada offers abundant opportunities to bring your entrepreneurial vision to life.
The Canadian government actively supports entrepreneurship by inviting both residents and non-residents to establish businesses in the country. For foreign entrepreneurs, Canada offers various pathways to permanent residency, making it an appealing destination for business ventures.
Discover Canada's Business Immigration Programs
Explore a diverse range of business programs in Canada designed to accommodate entrepreneurs, investors, and self-employed individuals. From the Start-Up Visa program, facilitating innovative ventures, to Provincial Nominee Programs offering tailored pathways to residency, Canada presents abundant opportunities for business-minded individuals to thrive and succeed. Whether launching a new venture or expanding your business horizons, Canada’s business programs provide the framework for your entrepreneurial journey.
Investors
Canada offers a range of investor visa and investment immigration programs for foreign entrepreneurs seeking permanent residency and citizenship. These programs, available at both federal and provincial levels, provide pathways for individuals to invest in Canadian businesses and contribute to the country’s economy. Successful applicants receive work permits to establish and operate their businesses in Canada, with the opportunity to apply for permanent residency and citizenship if their ventures thrive.
Entrepreneur
Private entrepreneurs seeking to establish or operate a business in Canada may qualify for an LMIA exemption, provided they meet certain criteria. To be eligible, applicants must be the sole or majority owners of the intended business and demonstrate its significant benefit to Canada. Entrepreneurs must show that their work in Canada is temporary, making this option ideal for owners of seasonal businesses. Additionally, entrepreneurs who have applied for Canadian permanent residence may also be eligible for LMIA-exempt work permits under this category. Demonstrating the temporary nature of their work is essential for entrepreneurs seeking LMIA-exempt work permits.
Self-Employed
The Self-Employed Class is tailored for individuals with relevant experience who possess the intention and capability to create employment opportunities and contribute significantly to Canada’s cultural, artistic, athletic, or agricultural sectors. Successful applicants must demonstrate at least two years of self-employment experience within the past five years in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management, or participation at a world-class level in cultural activities or athletics. While the specific financial net worth requirement is not specified in the regulations, applicants must have sufficient resources to establish themselves as self-employed individuals in Canada and contribute meaningfully to specified economic activities. Additionally, applicants must meet the initial settlement requirements for themselves and any accompanying dependents.
Start-Up Visa
To apply for Canada’s Start-up Visa Program, individuals or groups of up to five owners must meet specific requirements. These include having a qualifying business, obtaining a letter of support from a designated organization, meeting language proficiency standards, and bringing sufficient funds to settle in Canada. Successful applicants must hold at least 10% of the total voting rights in the business, and together with the designated organization, must hold more than 50% of the voting rights. Once approved, applicants must incorporate their business in Canada, manage it actively from within the country, and ensure a significant portion of its operations take place there. Designated organizations must be convinced of the business’s potential and provide a letter of support and commitment certificate for the immigration application
Provincial Nomination
Provincial Entrepreneur Programs in Canada offer a pathway for immigrant entrepreneurs to establish businesses and contribute to the economic growth of specific provinces. These programs, administered by each province, provide opportunities for individuals with innovative business ideas and the capability to create jobs and drive local economies forward. Through Provincial Nominee Programs, entrepreneurs can access support, resources, and guidance tailored to the specific needs and priorities of each province. Whether in technology, agriculture, or other sectors, Provincial Entrepreneur Programs aim to attract talented individuals willing to invest their skills and resources to build successful enterprises and enrich their adopted communities.
Work Permit
If you have applied for permanent residence through the Start-Up Visa Program (SUV), you may also qualify for an optional work permit. This permit allows you to engage in entrepreneurial activities to develop your business while your Start-Up Visa application is being processed. It is exclusively for participants in the Start-Up Visa Program, valid for one year, and permits work solely as an entrepreneur to facilitate business development.
Expert Assistance for Entrepreneurs in Canada
Ready to take the next step towards starting a business in Canada through immigration? Contact us today to learn more about the various pathways available and how our experienced team can support you throughout the process. At Real West Immigration, we specialize in guiding entrepreneurs and business owners through the intricacies of launching a business in Canada. Schedule a consultation today and embark on your journey towards business success in Canada.