Start-up Visa & Investor Visa Program – Canada
It is popularly reflected that Canada is one of the top 10 most permissive countries to commence a business. This is due to the land being extremely rich in natural resources, having an immensely skilled labor force, and a stable government. Entrepreneur and Investor Visa options available for everyone, including the general Start-up Visa Program and the provincial-specific Nominee Program.
The Start-up Visa Program is a comprehensive Business Immigration or “Investor” Visa opportunity that allows immigrating to Canada by starting a business in Canada. The company will have to meet a set of requirements to be successful with the application.
Start-up Visa Program Requirements
Business Requirements
Once a designated organization commits to the business:
- all applicants (up to 5 people can apply as owners) must each hold at least 10% of the voting rights attached to all outstanding shares of the business; and
- together with the designated organization, they must hold more than 50% of the company’s voting rights attached to all outstanding shares.
Once you receive permanent residence, ensure:
- to perform a vital role in the ongoing management of the business while living in Canada
- essential operations of the company must partly take place in Canada
- company is incorporated in Canada.
Letter of Support
It proves a designated organization is responsible for financing and support the start-up. These organizations include:
- Venture Capital Firms ($200,000 investment)
- Angel Investor Groups ($75,000 investment)
- Business Incubators.
Language Requirements
Score a minimum level 5 of Canadian Language Benchmark
Settlement Money
You must verify that you have sufficient capital to settle yourself and your family in Canada as the Canadian government doesn’t give financial support to this “investor” visa.
Provincial Nominee Program Entrepreneur and Investor Visa Options
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) provides every province and territory of Canada to invite applicants to develop and live within their borders if they have the right skills and work experience. Canada is on the scout for newcomers who have the entrepreneurial venture, the talent, and the innovation to start, manage, or buy a business in the country to ensure the sustained success through diversification and expansion.
Let’s look at the several Entrepreneur and Investor Visa opportunities available to immigrate to Canada.
Alberta
Alberta is a fabulous place to commence a business considering it to be the world’s 3rd most liveable city, Calgary, Alberta’s farmlands are where investment options genuinely lie. The second-largest agricultural producer province and diverse landscapes is perfect for crop production and livestock production. Currently, there is only Self-Employed Farmer Stream for Investment Visa option is available in Alberta.
British Columbia
British Columbia, the most flexible, diverse, and competitive economy, is a prime destination for new or expanding businesses. Vancouver, the capital city, is conveniently located to assist with global trade routes, including the U.S., Asia, and Mexico. The government supports businesses. It makes it easier and cheaper to start a business. It is rich in business resources with a well-educated workforce. British Columbia currently has two Investor Visa options, the provincial nominee Entrepreneur Immigration Stream and the Regional Pilot Program.
Manitoba
Manitoba is a state of natural harmony filled with reliable, clean, and friendly towns. Winnipeg, the capital city, is becoming a stable economy with a low cost of living and quality career opportunities. Due to the cheap cost of living, within the first five years of living in the province, 76% of immigrants become homeowners.
New Brunswick
New Brunswick has lush forests, crystal lakes, incredible mountain ranges, and stunning beaches. The Bay of Fundy, which has the world’s highest tides, has one of Canada’s best business possibilities. A skilled labour force anticipates business in New Brunswick. The highest graduation rate and the most high-speed internet in the country presents it as a prime productivity neighbourhood. New Brunswick’s capital city, Fredericton, gained the startup community of the year in 2016.
Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia needs innovative newcomers to start enterprises in the province as it has natural resources planning profitable industries in agriculture, fishing, mining, forestry, and natural gas extraction. There are currently two Entrepreneur Visa alternatives available in Nova Scotia.
Northwest Territories
The world’s third-largest producer of diamonds has a secret-filled territory famous for its aurora borealis sightings. The growth and success in Agriculture, Fishery, and Manufacturing have been marvellous. It has the lowest business tax rates and fastest-growing GDP in Canada. The government recognizing business investment importance has since created several incentive programs for business and investment.
Newfoundland and Labrador
Small business initiatives in Newfoundland and Labrador are expanding tech industries with landscape lending a hand to adventure and ecotourism opportunities. There is a lot to invest in the agricultural sector.
Ontario
With 68% of adults living in Ontario have a post-secondary education, you can enjoy lower business costs. Payless corporate tax and spend significantly lower on healthcare and housing. Two of Ontario’s biggest cities, Toronto and Ottawa, are ranked the best places to live and work globally. You have two alternatives – the Ontario Corporate Stream and the Ontario Entrepreneur Stream, to obtain Canadian permanent residency by investing or acquiring a business in Ontario.
Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island (PEI), the smallest province, potential for business and economic growth is sweeping the nation. The Government of PEI, recognizing business development, contributes supportive initiatives, like the Ignition Fund, to entrepreneurs starting a new business in the province. The Prince Edward Island Work Permit is currently the only business visa option in the region.
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan is conveniently located in the centre of Canada. With concrete road, rail, and air transport infrastructure, the province is well suited to the manufacturing and distribution industries. Forestry, mining, agriculture, and energy sectors enjoy lower operating costs in Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan Entrepreneur Category helps in starting a business in this prairie province.
Yukon
Yukon is a genuinely unique region with a deeply connected community to nature, and active individuals love to participate in outdoor activities. Yukon Business Nominee Program helps start a business in Yukon gives you access to resources and terrain for business innovation. Yukon’s Government has identified the film, forestry, technology, mining, oil, gas, and tourism sectors as the primary business sectors.
Conclusion:
As an immigrant investor, investor, and immediate family can obtain Canadian Immigration (Permanent Resident) Visas by investing $800,000 for a minimum of five years under the Federal Program except for Quebec. The program is government-guaranteed, meaning $800,000 will be reimbursed in full without interest at the end of the five years. The applicant must have management experience in an international agency, farming, commercial, industrial, or professional business.
Jet immigration offers extensive services for business owners interested in immigrating to Canada, set-up new business, create jobs and add to the Canadian economy. Start your Free Assessment, today!
