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Definition and Requirements
Entrepreneurs, as defined in Canadian Immigration Regulations, are those who intend to establish or purchase or make a substantial investment in a business or commercial venture in Canada, and have the ability to provide active and on-going participation in management of the business. The business must make a significant contribution to the economy of Canada, and must create employment opportunities for at least one or more Canadian citizens or permanent residents other than the entrepreneur or his/her dependants. The following points are generally used to evaluate the intent and ability of the applicants. However, the applicant must document his or her qualifications and skills to convince the visa officer that he or she meets the definition of an entrepreneur.
 net worth.
educational background and level of expertise.
past and present business experience.
language skills (English or French).
business training and professional membership.
preparation for the move to Canada, such as market research, and knowledge of Canada.
Although there is no requirement for a fixed net worth, however, a total net worth of at least CDN $200,000 is often required to qualify as an entrepreneur. Applicants who have been an owner or director of a commercial firm, or persons with a significant management responsibility and experience may qualify in this category. Evidence of funds, business registration documents, proof of ownership, valuation reports of properties, audited financial statements, balance sheets, profit and loss statements, tax records and other financial documents are generally required by immigration visa offices.
Investment
Entrepreneurs require enough money to start a business in Canada and cover the settlement costs. The business must bring significant economic benefits to Canada. A passive investment such as real estate is often not accepted. The amount of the investment in the business depends on the business project.
Selection Criteria
Applicants are assessed under the same selection criteria applied to independent applicants, except for the category of occupational demand and arranged employment (please see Independent Class for details). Entrepreneurs are required to obtain points in the category of experience. An entrepreneur must attain a total of 25 points in all of the categories. It is important to note that visa officers may refuse an application regardless of the units of assessment, if, in their opinion, there are good reasons that units do not reflect the chances of the applicant becoming successfully established in Canada.
In order to be eligible for immigration to Canada in the entrepreneur category, the applicant must meet the definition of an entrepreneur, especially two concepts of intention and ability to start and manage a business in Canada. The applicant must satisfy the visa officer that they have a clear understanding of the Canadian market and economic conditions, and have a reasonable plan of action.
Conditions
Entrepreneurs and their dependants are admitted on a conditional basis, and must prove to Citizenship and Immigration officials that they have:
1. set up a business in Canada within two years of landing.
2. managed or participated in the management of the business.
3. created at least one job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada.
The business could take one of many forms (i.e., a small business, a franchise, or a manufacturing facility). Failure to comply with these conditions within two years of arriving in Canada could lead to removal of an entrepreneur and his/her family from Canada.If you are an entrepreneur who is considering immigrating to Canada, and if you feel that you may meet the above criteria, we will be happy to review your qualifications. Please complete our confidential Assessment Form for Business Class and we will evaluate your chances for success.
As an Entrepreneur Applicant, you must show that you have taken all reasonable steps to establish a sound business venture in Canada. You may be required to demonstrate that the appropriate attention has been paid to all issues related to regulations, start up, investment, financing, and market. If you retain us to represent your case, we will provide you with the relevant Canadian business information, help you decide on a suitable and practical project appropriate to your occupation, and increase your chances for success by professionally presenting your experience, qualification, and business plan to immigration officials. Please see our Services for details.
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