Government of Canada

Welcome to Invest in Canada 0 Email Us your Questions
Sign Up for our Newsletter
Contact Our Global Network





Home > Establish A Business > Entry Requirements > Business Immigration > Entrepreneur

Entrepreneur

When you immigrate to Canada as an entrepreneur, you must start and operate a business successfully within a certain time period. You are also required to create employment opportunities.

Following are the requirements of the entrepreneurial program and how to apply. The information is brought to you directly from Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).

Immigrating to Canada as an Entrepreneur

The Entrepreneur Program allows applicants with business experience and a legally obtained minimum net worth of $300,000 to immigrate to Canada provided that they commit to managing and owning at least one-third of a business of a defined size for at least one year within three years of landing in Canada.

All applicants must indicate in writing that they intend and will be able to meet these conditions, which are also applicable to all family members.

Conditions are administered by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) after landing.

To apply as an Entrepreneur
  1. Assess eligibility
    Review the eligibility requirements.
  2. Application process
    Follow the steps to complete your application.
  3. Know the rules
    Learn about additional rules and conditions after you are approved.

Additional information is also available to assist you.

  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
    How long does it take to become a permanent resident? If I qualify, can I bring my family? What kind of business can I operate? See the FAQ page for answers to common questions asked by applicants. 
  • More information
    If you need more information, additional resources are available to assist you, including information on starting a business and doing business in Canada.

Related Links
Applying as a Business Immigrant
An overview for investors, entrepreneurs, or self-employed immigrants

Coming to Canada as a business immigrant
Learn about the entry requirements for all types of business immigrants