Canada offers business immigration programs through the Self-Employed Persons Program and the Start-up Visa Program, targeting innovative entrepreneurs and those with skills in cultural or athletic fields, respectively.
Self-Employed Persons Program
The Self-employed Persons Program allows people to immigrate to Canada permanently as a self-employed person.
If you’re interested in this program, you must:
- have relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics and
- be willing and able to make a significant contribution to the cultural or athletic life of Canada
As of March 10, 2018, IRCC unfortunately is no longer accepting new applications under the farm management stream of the Self-Employed Persons Program. But, they will continue to process applications received before March 10, 2018.
Furthermore, IRCC stopped accepting applications for this program on April 30, 2024, and paused it until January 2027.
Start-up Visa Program
You have a business idea? – Apply through the Start-up Visa Program.
Canada’s Start-up Visa Program is targeting immigrant entrepreneurs with the skills and potential to build businesses in Canada (outside Quebec) that:
- are innovative
- can create jobs for Canadians
- can compete on a global scale
To qualify for this visa, your business plan has to be approved and supported by one of the designated organizations. You have to meet the language requirements and bring enough capital to settle in Canada.
Interested in learning more about your visa options for Canada within this category? Contact our visa specialists for a free assessment and start your journey today.