Business Programs for Immigration to Canada

Investors, entrepreneurs and self-employed people may be eligible for immigration via one of the Federal Business Programs.

The Citizenship and Immigration website states it goal in the issuance of Business permits as attract "experienced business people to Canada who will support the development of a strong and prosperous Canadian economy".

Applications can be submitted for under one of three categories, but it should be noted that an application cannot be changed when submitted.

Investors - whereby the immigrant investor is prepared to invest $800,000 CAD, as a passive investment and demonstrate a net worth of $1.6 million. This program is currently full and will resume on July 2012. There will be a cap of 700 applications unless the Ministerial Instructions change.

Entrepreneurs - the individual must have a minimum net worth of $300,000 CAD and be prepared to invest into or acquire a Canadian business that will add economically and job wise to the Canadian economy. This program is currently suspended.

Self employed - this is restricted to farmers, athletes and artists who have sufficient funds to support themselves with self employed income.