Canada's business and investment immigration includes the Start-up Visa for entrepreneurs, the Self-Employed Persons Program for qualifying cultural or athletic professionals, and several provincial entrepreneur streams.
Who this route suits
Entrepreneurs, business founders, investors, and self-employed professionals.
Start-up Visa Program
For entrepreneurs with a qualifying business idea and support from a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator). Up to five co-founders can be included in one application.
Self-Employed Persons Program
For people with relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics who intend to be self-employed in Canada. A minimum of two years of qualifying experience is required.
Provincial entrepreneur streams
Several provinces operate their own entrepreneur and investor immigration streams with different capital, experience, and business establishment requirements.
Important to know
Federal investor programs are closed. Focus on active routes: Start-up Visa and Self-Employed Persons Program.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the federal investor program still available?
- No. The federal Immigrant Investor and Entrepreneur programs were cancelled in 2014. Provincial streams and the Start-up Visa are the main active business immigration routes.
Check before you apply. General information only. Requirements, fees, and occupation lists change. The relevant authority makes the final decision on every application. Confirm current requirements with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Related routes
Working in a regulated profession in Canada?
A visa does not give permission to practise a regulated profession. Registration is a separate process.