BCPNP Entrepreneur Immigration Program is for foreign entrepreneurs who wish to immigrate to British Columbia (B.C.) to set up businesses that support innovation and economic growth in the province.
three Streams for entrepreneurs:
- Base Stream:
- For experienced entrepreneurs who intend to start a new businesses or take over and grow existing businesses in B.C.
- Regional Stream:
- For international entrepreneurs who wish to open a business in one of B.C.’s smaller communities.
- Strategic Projects:
- For foreign corporations who wish to expand their business operation by opening branch or facility in the province.
- A pathway for immigration for up to 5 foreign employees who play a key role in the operation of the business in the province.
The eligibility for each stream as follows
Base Stream:
- Net Worth:
- At least $600,000 CAD
- Work Experience:
- Must have 3+ years of experience as business owner and/or manager.
- If there is no business ownership experience, must have 2 years of post secondary diploma.
- Language:
- Minimum of CLB 4 equivalent in English or French.
- Business Ownership
- At least 33.33% or higher
- Business Investment
- Minimum $200,000 CAD
- Job Creation:
- Must create at least 1 full-time job for Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Regional Stream:
- Net Worth:
- At least $300,000 CAD
- Work Experience:
- Must have 3+ years of experience as business owner and/or manager.
- If there is no business ownership experience, must have 2 years of post secondary diploma.
- Language:
- Minimum of CLB 4 equivalent in English or French.
- Business Ownership
- At least 51% or higher
- Business Investment
- Minimum $100,000 CAD
- Job Creation:
- Must create at least 1 full-time job for Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Strategic Projects:
- Investment:
- a minimum investment of at least $500,000 CAD towards the business operations in B.C.
- Job Creation:
- create at least 3 full-time jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents for each foreign employee that comes to Canada under this stream. (Maximum 5 foreign employees allowed)
- Employee Ineligibilities:
- Are prohibited from entering Canada
- Are not lawfully admitted in the country of residence
- Are working in Canada illegally without authorization
- Have a unresolved Refugee claim in Canada
- Have issued a removal order inside or outside Canada