Investment Opportunities in Canada
Minimum Investment Requirements by Province for Business Immigration
Canada’s diverse and welcoming environment makes it an attractive destination for immigrant entrepreneurs looking to start or expand their businesses. Each Canadian province and territory offer unique opportunities and requirements for business immigration, including minimum investment amounts. In this blog, we’ll explore the minimum investment thresholds set by various provinces, providing insight into the financial commitment required to embark on your entrepreneurial journey in Canada.
1. British Columbia (BC)
British Columbia’s Entrepreneur Immigration stream requires a minimum investment of $200,000 CAD in a new or existing business. Applicants must also create at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Personal net worth of at least $600,000 (including cash, assets in bank accounts, fixed deposits, real properties, investments, etc). The net worth must be legally obtained and may be under the spouse or common-law partner’s name. This net worth must verifiable if invited to apply
2. Ontario
Ontario’s Business Immigration Programs, including the Entrepreneur Stream and the Corporate Stream, may require a minimum investment of $600,000 CAD for businesses in the Greater Toronto Area or $200,000 CAD for businesses outside of the Greater Toronto Area.
Personal Minimum net worth, which varies depending on where the business will be located;
For businesses located within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), applicants must have a minimum net worth of $800,000.
For businesses located outside the GTA, applicants must have a minimum net worth of $400,000.
3. Alberta
Alberta’s Immigrant Investor Program requires a minimum investment of $300,000 CAD in an eligible business in the Edmonton or Calgary regions.
4. Saskatchewan
The Saskatchewan Entrepreneur Program asks for a minimum investment of $300,000 CAD in a new or existing business. You’ll also need to have a minimum net worth of $500,000 CAD.
5. Manitoba
Manitoba’s Business Investor Stream has two pathways: the Entrepreneur Pathway and the Farm Investor Pathway. The Entrepreneur Pathway requires a minimum investment of $250,000 CAD in a business in the province.
6. Quebec
Quebec’s Investor Program is distinct from other provinces. It requires a minimum investment of $1,200,000 CAD and applicants must have a net worth of $2,000,000 CAD. While it’s a higher investment, it offers a direct pathway to permanent residency in Quebec.
7. New Brunswick
New Brunswick’s Entrepreneurial Stream asks for a minimum investment of $250,000 CAD in a new or existing business, and you must have a minimum net worth of $600,000 CAD.
8. Prince Edward Island (PEI)
PEI’s Business Impact Category has three streams, with minimum investment requirements ranging from $150,000 CAD to $200,000 CAD. The specific minimum investment depends on the stream.
9. Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia’s Entrepreneur Stream requires a minimum investment of $150,000 CAD in a new or existing business. You’ll also need to have a net worth of at least $600,000 CAD.
10. Newfoundland and Labrador
These minimum investment requirements provide an overview of the financial commitment expected from immigrant entrepreneurs in each Canadian province. However, it’s important to note that eligibility criteria, investment requirements, and program details can change over time. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to consult the official immigration websites of the specific province you are interested in or seek professional guidance from immigration experts to stay up-to-date and ensure a successful business immigration journey to Canada.
