Business & Investor Immigration
Canada offers pathways for entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners who want to expand or establish operations in Canada. This guide covers the available options and what each program typically requires.
Main Business Immigration Pathways
1. Start-Up Visa (SUV)
- ✔ For innovative business ideas
- ✔ Requires support from a designated organization (incubator, angel investor, VC)
- ✔ Allows permanent residence if conditions are met
2. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT)
- ✔ For business owners or senior employees expanding to Canada
- ✔ No LMIA required
- ✔ Work permit pathway leading to PR through skilled experience
- ✔ Must show existing business operations outside Canada
3. Provincial Entrepreneur Programs (PNP)
- ✔ Each province has its own requirements
- ✔ Typically requires a business plan
- ✔ Net worth verification
- ✔ Active business management inside Canada
4. Owner-Operator (Legacy Route)
- ✔ Previously common for business owners buying a Canadian business
- ✔ IRCC now follows stricter LMIA rules
- ✔ Still possible through legitimate employer needs
What Maple Route Immigration Helps With
- ✔ Overview of realistic immigration pathways for entrepreneurs
- ✔ Eligibility requirements for ICT, SUV, or PNP entrepreneur streams
- ✔ Document requirements for each pathway
- ✔ How to frame your business concept for Canadian immigration purposes
- ✔ PR pathways available through these routes
Need Professional Business Immigration Advice?
Business immigration pathways involve complex eligibility criteria and significant financial decisions. Consult a licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or immigration lawyer for advice specific to your situation. Find one at the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants.
This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or business advice. Always verify current program requirements at ircc.canada.ca.