How can I come to Canada as a business immigrant?

The Canadian government selects business class immigrants based on their ability to become economically established and support the development of the Canadian economy.

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.

There are 3 classes of business immigrants:

• Investors
• Entrepreneurs
• Self-employed persons

Investors

As of July 1, 2011 CIC will accept a maximum of 700 new applications for the federal Immigrant Investor Program (IIP).

Find out more information about this change on CIC's website.

To be eligible, you must:

• Demonstrate that you have business experience;
• Have a minimum net worth of C$1.6 million ; and
• Make an investment of C$800,000.

Entrepreneurs

As of July 1, 2011 CIC will not accept new applications for the federal entrepreneur class until further notice.

Find out more information about this change on CIC's website.

To be eligible, you must:

• Demonstrate that you have business experience;
• Have a minimum net worth of C$300,000; and
• Follow conditions for entrepreneurs when you arrive in Canada.

Self-Employed Persons

To be eligible, you must have 1 of these:

• Experience that will make a significant contribution to cultural or athletic life in Canada; or
• Experience in farm management and you must intend to and be able to buy and manage a farm in Canada.

Other Requirements

You must also meet other requirements. For complete, official information, go to Investors, Entrepreneurs and Self-Employed Persons on the CIC website.

For More Information

• Business Immigration - Information about coming to Ontario as a business immigrant. From by the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade
• Investors, Entrepreneurs and Self-Employed Persons - Information about eligibility requirements and how to apply to come to Canada as a business immigrant.
• Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) - CIC is responsible for Canadian immigration and citizenship. Get information on CIC policy, programs and services, application kits, and more.

Last Updated: September 26, 2011