Business Investor PNP (Business Immigration / Investor Visa)
Immigrate to Canada as a Business Investor
The Business Investor Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows foreign entrepreneurs to obtain permanent residency in Canada by investing in an existing business or starting a new one. Each province has specific requirements tailored to its economic and labour needs.
Through this program, qualified investors and their families can gain permanent residency while contributing to the growth of Canada’s economy.
Why Choose the Business Investor PNP?
- Direct pathway to permanent residency → Invest in or manage a Canadian business and become eligible for PR.
- Flexible opportunities → Different provinces offer programs suited to various investor profiles.
- Economic contribution → Support local growth, create jobs, and strengthen communities while benefiting from Canada’s stable economy.
- Step-by-step support → Expert guidance through business selection, due diligence, and immigration requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Business Investor PNP, you must generally meet these requirements (specifics vary by province):
Net Worth
- Minimum personal net worth: CAD $250,000–$500,000 depending on the province.
- Net worth must be legally obtained and verifiable.
Business & Management Experience
- Minimum 2 years of experience in business ownership or senior management.
- Experience should demonstrate your ability to operate and grow a business.
Financial & Legal Standing
- Clean financial history and good credit score.
- No criminal record.
Business Intent
- Genuine intention to actively manage or invest in a Canadian business.
- Must demonstrate how your investment will contribute to local economic growth and job creation.
Process
Step 1: Focus on Businesses That Generate Economic Benefit
To be eligible for an L1 visa, both the employee (visa applicant) and the employer (sponsor) must meet specific eligibility requirements. Here are the general eligibility requirements for the L1 visa:
Preferred Sectors
- Agriculture, food & beverage production, aquaculture
- Technology, cybersecurity, fintech
- Healthcare, renewable energy, green economy
- Education, tourism, cultural industries, film/video production
- Advanced manufacturing, exports, transportation
Value-Creating Activities
- Developing new products or services, adopting innovative technologies
- Innovating traditional business models
- Increasing exports, R&D, or technology commercialization
- Serving underserved local markets
Economic Impact Requirements
- Minimum investment: CAD $250,000
- Create or maintain jobs for at least 2 Canadians
- Business revenue must cover wages
Businesses to Avoid
- Bed & breakfasts, hobby farms, pawnshops
- Used goods stores (unless value-added), tanning salons
- Payday loan services, pornographic services
Step 2: Research & Select the Right Business
- Online Listings: Business for Sale, BuyAndSellBusiness.com, local brokers.
- Due Diligence: Review corporate tax returns (T2, Schedule 100 & 125) and GST/HST filings.
- Meet Owners & Visit Sites: Understand operations, customer base, and sales trends.
- Professional Support: Engage a business broker, accountant, and business/immigration lawyer.
Businesses under CAD $250,000 may not meet PNP economic impact requirements.
Step 3: Complete Due Diligence
Hire experienced professionals to assess:
- Legal standing, licenses, and regulatory compliance
- Financial health (revenue, profit, debts)
- Operational viability and employee structure
- Potential risks: zoning, disputes, or liabilities
Due diligence is critical for foreign investors to avoid purchasing businesses that may not support immigration goals.
Step 4: Submit PNP Application
- Prepare a business plan showing investment, job creation, and economic benefits
- Submit application to the provincial nominee program
- Once nominated, apply for permanent residency through IRCC
- Provide supporting documents such as financial records, identity proof, and business ownership details
- Attend interviews or meetings if requested by the provincial authorities
How We Can Help
At Shreehari Immigration, we help foreign investors:
- Identify businesses aligned with skills, experience, and financial goals
- Verify legitimacy and profitability of selected businesses
- Ensure compliance with provincial and federal immigration requirements
- Support the full purchase process while managing your PR application
Focus on growing your business while we help you secure permanent residency and eventually Canadian citizenship.
Required Documents
Applicants typically need:
- Passport or travel documents
- Proof of net worth
- Proof of business/management experience
- Business plan and financial projections
- Legal documents for the business purchase
Entrepreneur & Investor Immigration Canada
Ontario
Ontario Immigration Nominee Program- Corporate Stream
British Columbia
British Columbia PNP Entrepreneur Stream
Alberta
Alberta Self-Employed Farmer Stream
Manitoba
Manitoba PNP for
Business
Prince Edward Island (PEI)
PEI- Nominee Program: Business Impact 100% Ownership
New Brunswick
New Brunswick Immigrant-Entrepreneur Program
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan (SINP)-Entrepreneur/Farm Owner Category
Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Nominee Program- Entrepreneur Stream
Northwest Territories
Northwest Territories Nominee Entrepreneur Biz Program
Yukon
Yukon Business Nominee
Program
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. At least 2 years of business ownership or senior management experience is required.
Generally CAD $250,000–$500,000 depending on the province and program.
No. The business must meet PNP criteria, demonstrate economic benefit, and create jobs for Canadians.
Your spouse and dependents can also obtain permanent residency alongside you.
Take the Next Step
- Book Your Consultation Today: Get personalized guidance for your Business Investor PNP journey.
- Free Eligibility Assessment: Check if you meet the requirements to invest and immigrate to Canada.