Self-Employed, Entrepreneur and Investor
There are three categories of business immigration. The relevant criteria are complex and rigidly applied.
Self-Employed
A foreign national who has relevant experience and has the intention and ability to be self-employed in Canada and to make significant contribution to specified economic activities in Canada may apply under this category.
Although technically open to all immigrants, this category of business immigration is more often employed by artists and craftspeople. To be eligible for immigration under this category, you must have the intent and ability to begin and operate a business. This must be demonstrated by a proven history of experience. You must demonstrate that you have sufficient money to establish yourself and your business and have a demonstrable history in your chosen fields. Most importantly, you must establish that you can make a “significant contribution” to the economy or culture and artistic life in Canada.
Entrepreneur
This category applies if you are a foreign national and have business experience and a legally obtained minimum net worth. You must satisfy landing conditions within three years before you are given a permanent status. This category is more suited to “pure” business applicants who have a history of business management. Note that entrepreneurs must be actively involved in their business. Entrepreneurs must meet a definition of business experience and must have a net worth of $300,000.
Investor
If you have significant funds and do not wish to be actively involved in a business, the investor category is a consideration. Currently, an investor must have successfully owned, operated or directed a business and have a minimum net worth of $800,000.