Beyond popular programs like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta, several provinces and territories operate Entrepreneur, Business, or Investor streams under their PNPs. These programs are designed to:
Attract business owners who will actively manage a local business
Stimulate regional and rural economic growth
Create or maintain jobs for Canadians and permanent residents
Address province‑specific economic needs
Each province sets its own eligibility rules, investment thresholds, and selection criteria.
Aside from Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan, several other provinces and territories operate Business or Entrepreneur streams under their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These pathways are designed for experienced entrepreneurs who are prepared to actively manage a business and contribute to local economic development.
Business immigration options may be available in the following jurisdictions:
British Columbia – Entrepreneur Immigration (Base Stream and Regional Pilot)
Ontario – OINP Entrepreneur Stream
Nova Scotia – Entrepreneur Stream and International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
New Brunswick – Entrepreneurial Stream
Prince Edward Island – Work Permit Stream (Business)
Newfoundland and Labrador – International Entrepreneur Stream
Yukon – Yukon Business Nominee Program
Northwest Territories – Business Stream
Each province or territory sets its own eligibility criteria, investment thresholds, intake limits, and assessment process. Most of these programs require applicants to establish and operate their business in Canada on a work permit before becoming eligible for provincial nomination.
While requirements vary by province, most business PNP streams assess applicants based on:
Business ownership or senior management experience
Minimum net worth (varies by province)
Minimum investment amount in the proposed business
Active management and physical presence in the province
Business plan aligned with provincial economic needs
Language proficiency (often CLB 4–5 minimum)
Job creation or economic benefit for local residents
Some provinces operate on an Expression of Interest (EOI) system, ranking candidates competitively.
Although each province has its own procedure, the process generally follows these steps:
Eligibility Assessment & Business Planning
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Sign a Performance or Business Agreement
Apply for a Work Permit and establish the business in Canada
Operate the business and meet agreed conditions
Receive Provincial Nomination
Apply for Permanent Residence through IRCC
Most programs require applicants to prove real business performance before nomination.
Lower competition compared to major provinces
Opportunities in emerging and underserved markets
More personalized provincial support
Pathways suitable for small‑ to mid‑scale investors
Strong alignment with regional economic development
These programs are ideal for entrepreneurs seeking long‑term settlement and business growth in Canada.
Adapt Immigration provides end‑to‑end support for business immigration under provincial programs, including:
Strategic program selection based on your profile
Net worth and eligibility assessment
Business concept and market viability analysis
PNP‑compliant business plan preparation
Application management and documentation review
Ongoing compliance support until nomination
We focus on credible, province‑aligned strategies to reduce risk and improve approval chances.
Provincial business immigration requires careful planning, accurate documentation, and a realistic business strategy. Our team can help you identify the right province and pathway for your goals.
