🌍 What Is the Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream?
The FGES is aimed at graduates from outside Canada who have completed a post-secondary education in the last 10 years and are ready to launch a start-up or business in Alberta.
Through this stream, successful candidates are nominated by the province and can then apply for PR through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
✅ Who Can Apply?
To qualify, you must:
- Have a foreign post-secondary degree (equivalent to a Canadian degree).
- Have completed your studies within the last 10 years.
- Have at least 6 months of full-time work experience in owning or managing a business.
- Submit a business plan with financial projections.
- Own at least 34% of the business in an urban area or 51% in a rural area.
- Obtain a letter of recommendation from a Designated Agency (such as a business incubator or accelerator).
Language Requirements:
Minimum CLB 7 in English or French.
Investment Requirement:
At least $100,000 CAD for urban centers or $50,000 CAD for rural communities.
💼 What Types of Businesses Are Eligible?
You must propose a business that:
- Is aligned with Alberta’s economic priorities.
- Will create jobs for Canadians or permanent residents.
- Is actively operated by you (no passive investment).
- Has a physical location in Alberta.
Businesses such as tech startups, agri-business, clean energy, and professional services are encouraged. Certain types (like real estate development, home-based businesses, and franchises) are not eligible.
🛠️ Application Process
- Connect with a Designated Agency to review your business plan.
- Receive a Letter of Recommendation.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the AAIP portal.
- If invited, submit a full application with all documents.
- If approved, receive a Work Permit Letter of Support to build your business in Alberta.
- After operating the business successfully for at least 12 months, apply for a Provincial Nomination.
- With nomination, apply for PR through IRCC.
🎯 Why Choose This Stream?
- Start a business in Canada without needing Canadian education.
- Pathway to permanent residence through real entrepreneurship.
- Support from incubators and accelerators to help your idea succeed.
- Access to Alberta’s fast-growing markets, low tax rates, and innovation hubs.
💬 Final Thoughts
The Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream is for globally educated entrepreneurs who are ready to bring innovation, ambition, and job creation to Alberta.
If you have the passion and a solid plan, this program offers the resources, recognition, and residency pathway to help you thrive in Canada.
Want to Apply?
We guide entrepreneurs through every step — from building a business plan to preparing the application. Book a consultation or contact us to begin your journey.
