Business immigrants are people who can invest in, or start businesses in Canada and are expected to support the development of a strong and prosperous Canadian economy.

The Canadian government selects business class immigrants based on their ability to become economically established and support the development of the Canadian economy. Under business class, the whole family can immigrate to Canada as a permanent resident. Both the federal and provincial/territorial governments welcome business immigrants and offer services to help immigrants start a business and settle in Canada.

Under various Provincial Nominee Programs, there exist many business immigration categories for individuals who are interested to start or invest in a Canadian business venture. The minimum investment and net worth requirements vary from province to province, as every business immigration program is created to suit the needs of the province. Generally, every business program requires the applicant to create a detailed business plan. The plan must explain the type of business being purchased or established, provide detailed financial projections that can demonstrate the profitable impact on the local economy and labor market.

A new application intake period began on September 10, 2018, and is scheduled to run until August 31, 2019. However, candidates with approved language test results showing an intermediate-advanced proficiency in Speaking and Reading in French will have until October 31, 2019 to apply.
Minimum Net Worth $2,000,000
Minimum investment $1,200,000 risk-free through an approved financial intermediary or by financing that investment.
2 years of business management experience in the past 5 years prior to the submission of an application in a specific enterprise (agricultural, commercial, or industrial, OR management experience in a governmental or international organization) and in a position defined as full-time.

Minimum Net Worth $600,000
Minimum Investment $200,000 or $400,000 if proposing a key staff member Managerial experience required.
Create at least one permanent, full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident with the proposed business.