Business Immigration
Business People & Investors
Canada welcomes entrepreneurs and investors from around the world. Discover programs to create, buy, or grow a business in Canada.
Business Immigration Programs
Different options depending on your profile and objectives.
Start-up Visa
Federal12-16 monthsFor entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea supported by a designated organization.
Main Requirements
- Letter of support from a designated organization (incubator, venture capital fund, angel investor group)
- Language level CLB 5 (French or English)
- Sufficient settlement funds
- Eligible business idea
Benefits
- Direct permanent residence
- Up to 5 co-founders
- Work permit during processing
- Family included
Investment: Variable depending on organization
Intra-Company Transfer (ICT/C11)
Work Permit2-8 weeksFor executives, managers, or specialized employees transferred from a foreign company to its Canadian subsidiary.
Main Requirements
- Continuous employment of at least 1 year with the foreign company
- Executive, manager, or specialist position
- Related company in Canada (subsidiary, branch, affiliate)
- LMIA exempt
Benefits
- No LMIA required
- Fast processing
- Open work permit for spouse
- Pathway to permanent residence
Investment: Not applicable
Self-Employed Persons Program
Federal24-36 monthsFor individuals with experience in cultural, sports, or agricultural activities.
Main Requirements
- 2 years of self-employment experience in eligible fields
- Intention and ability to create own employment in Canada
- Significant contribution to cultural, sports, or agricultural life
- Minimum score on selection grid
Benefits
- Direct permanent residence
- No minimum investment required
- Family included
Investment: Settlement funds
Immigrant Investor Program (Quebec)
QuebecSuspendedFor experienced investors wishing to settle in Quebec (currently suspended).
Main Requirements
- Net worth of $2,000,000 CAD
- Management experience
- Investment of $1,200,000 CAD (government guaranteed)
- French knowledge (advantage)
Benefits
- Direct permanent residence
- Investment guaranteed and refunded after 5 years
- Family included
Investment: $1,200,000 CAD
Provincial Entrepreneur
ProvincialVariableEntrepreneur programs offered by various provinces.
Main Requirements
- Business or management experience
- Viable business plan
- Minimum investment (varies by province)
- Exploratory visit often required
Benefits
- Provincial nomination → PR
- Less strict criteria than federal
- Provincial support for settlement
Investment: $100,000 - $600,000 depending on province
Ready to Invest in Canada?
Business programs are complex and demanding. We help you choose the best option and prepare a strong application.