New Brunswick offers a clear and performance‑based pathway for experienced entrepreneurs who want to establish, purchase, or actively manage a business while working toward Canadian permanent residence. Through the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) – Entrepreneurial Stream, qualified applicants can first operate their business in the province and, upon meeting agreed‑upon commitments, become eligible for nomination for permanent residence.
The New Brunswick Entrepreneurial Stream follows a two‑step process:
Temporary Work Permit Stage – Approved candidates establish or acquire a business in New Brunswick and operate it while meeting the conditions of a signed Business Performance Agreement.
Provincial Nomination Stage – Once business and residency obligations are fulfilled, the province may issue a nomination for permanent residence.
This structure ensures that applicants are genuinely committed to contributing to New Brunswick’s economy before receiving nomination support.
To qualify for the New Brunswick Entrepreneurial Stream, applicants must generally meet the following criteria:
Be between 22 and 55 years old at the time of application.
Demonstrate a minimum of CLB 5 in English or French in all four language skills.
Hold at least a Canadian high school diploma or equivalent.
Have a minimum of 3 years of experience owning and actively managing a business, or
At least 5 years of experience in a senior business management role.
Possess a minimum personal net worth of CAD 500,000, legally obtained and verifiable.
Make a minimum eligible investment of CAD 150,000 in a New Brunswick business.
The business must be actively managed on a day‑to‑day basis.
Eligible businesses must:
Operate for profit and comply with Canadian and New Brunswick laws
Contribute to the local economy
Be actively managed by the applicant
Demonstrate realistic potential for sustainability and growth
Certain types of businesses may be considered ineligible based on provincial guidelines.
The application process for the New Brunswick Entrepreneurial Stream typically includes:
Expression of Interest (EOI) submission to the NBPNP
Invitation to Apply (ITA) issued to selected candidates
Formal application with detailed business plan and supporting documents
Interview and assessment by New Brunswick immigration officials
Work permit support letter and business establishment in New Brunswick
Business operation period under a Business Performance Agreement
Provincial nomination upon successful fulfillment of commitments
Each stage is carefully assessed, and accuracy, consistency, and feasibility are critical.
Competitive investment thresholds compared to other provinces
Supportive business environment for small and medium enterprises
Access to both English and French‑speaking markets
High quality of life with lower cost of living
Strong provincial focus on long‑term economic contribution
Business immigration applications require far more than meeting minimum criteria. Success depends on strategic planning, compliant documentation, and realistic business execution.
Adapt Immigration supports entrepreneurs by:
Assessing eligibility and program fit
Structuring compliant business models and investments
Preparing EOIs, applications, and business plans
Guiding applicants through interviews and performance agreements
Supporting the transition from work permit to permanent residence
If you are an entrepreneur ready to invest, manage, and settle in New Brunswick, the Entrepreneurial Stream may be the right pathway for you.
Book a professional consultation today to assess your eligibility and explore your business immigration options.
