Canada offers several immigration pathways for entrepreneurs who wish to establish, acquire, or actively manage a business while working toward permanent residence. These pathways support economic growth, job creation, and regional development across the country.
Entrepreneur immigration options are offered at both the provincial and federal levels, with program availability varying by region and over time. Some pathways may be paused or closed to new applicants.
This page provides an overview of entrepreneur immigration options in Canada, with links to detailed program pages.
Provincial Nominee Programs allow provinces and territories to nominate entrepreneurs who will invest in and actively manage a business within their jurisdiction. These programs are designed to meet regional economic and labour market needs.
Most PNP entrepreneur streams follow a two-stage process:
Several provinces and territories continue to offer entrepreneur immigration pathways, subject to nomination limits and intake controls.
Common requirements across PNP entrepreneur streams include:
Provinces and territories with active or recently active entrepreneur streams include:
Each province applies its own eligibility criteria, timelines, and selection process.
Start-Up Visa Program
The Start-Up Visa Program was created to attract innovative entrepreneurs with scalable business ideas supported by designated Canadian investors or incubators.
The program is currently closed to new applicants, with limited exceptions for entrepreneurs who received valid support prior to the pause. Applications submitted under previous rules continue to be processed.
Self-Employed Persons Program
The federal Self-Employed Persons Program is intended for individuals with relevant cultural or athletic experience who can contribute to Canada on a self-employed basis.
New applications are not being accepted at this time while IRCC processes existing applications and reviews the program.
When permanent residence entrepreneur programs are paused or not immediately suitable, entrepreneurs may consider temporary work permit options to enter Canada and operate a business.
The Intra-Company Transfer category allows business owners or senior employees to transfer from a foreign company to a related Canadian entity.
Key features:
C11 – Significant Benefit Work Permit
The C11 work permit allows entrepreneurs to operate a business in Canada where the activity is expected to provide a significant economic, social, or cultural benefit.
Key features:
The appropriate pathway depends on factors such as:
Entrepreneur immigration programs change frequently. A structured assessment helps determine which options are realistic and aligned with both business and immigration goals.
