NL (Newfoundland and Labrador) offers a strategic pathway to permanent residence for experienced entrepreneurs through its International Entrepreneur Stream. This program is designed for foreign business owners and senior managers who are ready to establish, purchase, or co-manage a business while actively contributing to the province’s economy.
The International Entrepreneur Stream targets business owners and senior managers who can demonstrate strong business experience, sufficient net worth, and a genuine intention to live and operate a business in Newfoundland and Labrador on a long‑term basis. Successful applicants are first issued a temporary work permit and, after meeting performance commitments, may be nominated for permanent residence.
Direct pathway to Canadian permanent residence
Opportunity to operate a business in a growing Atlantic province
Lower business and living costs compared to major metropolitan areas
Access to supportive local communities and provincial resources
Family members may accompany the applicant to Canada
To qualify for the Newfoundland and Labrador International Entrepreneur Stream, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
At least 2 years of experience actively managing and owning a business (with a minimum ownership of 25%) or
At least 5 years of experience in a senior business management role within the last 10 years
Minimum personal net worth of CAD 600,000, legally obtained and verifiable
Minimum eligible business investment of CAD 200,000
Applicant must own at least 33.3% of the business, unless the total investment is CAD 1 million or more
Minimum CLB 5 in English or French (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF accepted)
Must be between 21 and 59 years old at the time of application
Minimum of a high school diploma equivalent to Canadian standards
Demonstrate a genuine intention to live and operate a business in Newfoundland and Labrador
The business must:
Operate for profit
Be actively managed from within Newfoundland and Labrador
Create at least one full‑time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (excluding family members)
Comply with all provincial and federal laws
Passive investments (e.g., rental properties without active management)
Payday loan, cheque‑cashing, or pawnshop businesses
Home‑based businesses without a commercial presence
Businesses operated primarily for investment purposes
Expression of Interest (EOI) Submit an online EOI outlining business experience, net worth, investment plans, and language ability.
Invitation to Apply (ITA) Top‑ranking candidates may receive an ITA from the province.
Business Application Submission Submit a detailed Business Plan and supporting documents.
Interview and Approval Applicants may be invited for an interview with provincial officers.
Performance Agreement & Work Permit Sign a Business Performance Agreement and apply for a temporary work permit.
Business Establishment Period Operate the business for at least 12 months while meeting performance commitments.
Provincial Nomination Once conditions are met, apply for nomination for permanent residence.
Applicants must sign a legally binding agreement with the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador outlining:
Investment amount and source
Job creation commitments
Business milestones and timelines
Residency and management obligations
Failure to meet the agreement terms may result in refusal of nomination.
Strategic access to Atlantic and global markets
Emerging opportunities in technology, fisheries, tourism, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing
Strong community support for newcomers
Competitive operating costs for entrepreneurs
At Adapt Immigration, we provide end‑to‑end support for the Newfoundland and Labrador International Entrepreneur Stream, including:
Eligibility assessment and strategy planning
Net worth and source‑of‑funds preparation
Business plan development aligned with provincial criteria
EOI and application submission
Ongoing compliance support until permanent residence
Start your business immigration journey with confidence.
