The BC PNP (British Columbia Immigration Program) offers numerous business immigration channels aimed at attracting businesspersons, investors, and professionals to come to the province and contribute to its economic development. British Columbia immigration as a platform for international entrepreneurs seeking to establish businesses that foster innovation and economic prosperity within the province of British Columbia (B.C.). This initiative is a component of the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP).
One immigration path that offers a “temporary to permanent” option is entrepreneurship. To put it simply, if you’re approved, you’ll first come to British Columbia as a foreign worker, holding a work permit, to initiate your business endeavors. Once you’ve successfully launched your business activities, you can then apply for permanent residency, making your stay in British Columbia more long-term.
BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration
Entrepreneur immigration exists in the BC Immigration stream, which caters to business-oriented immigrants. In the year 2023, the BC entrepreneur immigration contains the following three streams:
1. BC PNP Base Category
This category is designed for individuals who have a proven history of success in owning or managing companies. To qualify, they must either establish and operate a new business in British Columbia or purchase and manage an existing one. Furthermore, they are required to be actively involved in the day-to-day management and operations of the company. Successful entrepreneurs initially enter British Columbia on a work permit, and once they have fulfilled the terms of their performance agreement, they become eligible to apply for permanent residency.
2. BC PNP Regional Pilot
Within the Entrepreneur Immigration Stream, there exists a segment known as the Regional Pilot. This specific program is aimed at encouraging business owners to establish operations in smaller, less urban areas across British Columbia. The primary goal is to stimulate economic growth in regions that are not major urban centers. In this program, communities have the opportunity to recommend foreign business owners who meet their criteria. The Regional Pilot program recognizes the importance of promoting regional development throughout the province.
3. BC PNP Strategic Projects
This category is designed for businesses with foreign ownership that are setting up operations in British Columbia. Key foreign personnel, such as CEOs, professionals, and technical staff, have the opportunity to apply for permanent residency. To be eligible, the company must demonstrate that its presence in British Columbia will have a significant and positive impact on the local economy.
When participating in the BC PNP program, immigrant entrepreneurs and investors are presented with the option to select from the Base, Regional Pilot, or Strategic Projects categories. Eligibility for the Provincial Nominee Program in British Columbia varies depending on the specific program you are applying for. For foreign companies looking to expand into British Columbia, the Strategic Projects category provides a pathway to secure permanent residency for key executives and essential staff members.
The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) outlines the general qualifying requirements for each of the business immigration streams as follows. It’s important to note that program eligibility may change over time. Canserves recommends checking the BC Entrepreneur Immigration Website or consulting with a qualified RCIC expert if you are contemplating an application under one of these streams. This will ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding eligibility requirements, application procedures, and any potential updates.
BC PNP Entrepreneur Stream Criteria
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| Eligibility requirements | Base Category | Regional Pilot | Strategic Projects |
| Language | CLB4 | CLB4 | Not Specified |
| Education | 3yrs of post-Sec or 100% Business Ownership | 3yrs of post-Sec or 100% Business Ownership | N/A |
| Net Worth ($CAN) | $600K | $300K | N/A |
| Verification Report | YES | YES | NO |
| Management Experience | 3 Years | 3 Years | Not specified |
| Required Investment | $200K | $100K | YES |
| Job Creation | YES | YES | YES |
| Exploratory Visit | NO | YES | YES |
| EOI | YES | YES | NO |
| Business Proposal | YES | YES | YES |
| Points | YES | YES | NO |
| Fees | $3,800 | $3,800 | $3,800 |
What are the requirements for the BC Entrepreneur stream?
The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program’s (BC PNP) general qualifying requirements for each of the business immigration streams are listed below.
1. Entrepreneur Stream – Base Category
To be eligible for the Entrepreneur Category, you generally need to meet the following criteria:
• Personal Net Worth
You need to have a minimum personal net worth of $600,000. It may vary based on the location of your proposed business.
• Investment
You must make a minimum investment of $200,000 to purchase and improve an existing or an eligible new business; again, depending on the company’s location, it may vary.
• Work Experience
You need to have relevant, suitable business or management experience.
• Business Proposal
You should have a viable business proposal demonstrating how your business will benefit British Columbia’s economy.
• Adaptability
You should genuinely intend to settle in British Columbia and actively manage your business.
• Job Creation
You’re required to create one new full-time job for permanent residents or Canadian citizens.
• Language ability
Canadian Language Benchmark Level 4 in English or French in the four competencies (Speaking, listening, reading and writing) by the time of nomination.
2. BC Strategic Projects Category
The eligibility criteria for the Strategic Projects Category can vary depending on the specific project and its potential economic impact on British Columbia. Typically, the following factors are considered:
• Significance
The project must demonstrate significant economic benefits to the province.
• Investment
The project company must invest a significant amount of capital in the business. Make a minimum equity investment of $500,000.
• Key Staff
The project company must nominate critical foreign managerial, professional, or technical staff for permanent residency.
• Job Creation
For every proposed foreign key staff member, at least three new positions must be created for Canadian citizens or permanent residents. (up to a maximum of five key staff).
• Business Proposal
Establish or purchase and expand a company in BC.
The eligibility criteria for the Regional Pilot can vary based on the participating communities. Typically, you must meet requirements like the Entrepreneur Category, with additional considerations for establishing a business in a smaller community.
3. BC Entrepreneur Regional Pilot
• Business Location
Establish an eligible new business aligned with the priorities of the referring community.
• Community Criteria
Each participating community may have specific criteria you must meet.
• Personal Net Worth
Net worth of minimum $300,000.
• Investment
Minimum of $100,000 in eligible business investments.
• Work Experience
You need to have relevant, suitable business or management experience.
• Language ability
Canadian Language Benchmark Level 4 In English or French in each of the four competencies: listening, speaking, reading and writing.
• Job Creation
Create at least one new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• Exploratory visit
Conduct an exploratory visit to the target community.
British Columbia Immigration Process
Step 1: Make an exploratory visit to B.C. (If needed)
Step 2: Discuss and Prepare your business proposal proposal
Step 3: Register your proposal with BC PNP
Step 4: Invitation to apply
Step 5: Applying to the BC PNP
Step 6: Signing Performance Agreements
Step 7: Get a Work Permit
Step 8: Build your Business
Step 9: BC PNP Nomination
Step 10: Apply for Permanent Residence
What are the benefits of the entrepreneur immigration?
The British Columbia Immigration Stream, which is part of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP), offers a pathway for individuals to initiate and manage businesses within the province. While the specific benefits may vary depending on an individual’s situation and the particular stream of the Entrepreneur Immigration Program, here are some common advantages:
- Permanent Residency: One of the key benefits of the Entrepreneur Immigration Stream is the opportunity to apply for permanent residency in Canada. Successful candidates have the option to seek permanent residency in British Columbia, and ultimately, they can become Canadian citizens, along with their immediate families.
- Business Opportunity: The programme enables business owners to launch, buy, and run a company in British Columbia. This allows the investigation of commercial potential in a thriving and varied economic environment.
- Economic Contribution: Entrepreneurs who start or invest in enterprises can boost the local economy by stimulating innovation, job creation, and economic activity.
- Work Permit: Depending on the specific category within the Entrepreneur Immigration Stream, applicants may initially enter British Columbia on a work permit. This allows them to actively operate and manage their businesses while their applications for permanent residency are in the process of being reviewed.
- Access to Services: Like Canadian citizens, permanent residents in Canada enjoy access to a range of social services, healthcare, and educational advantages.
- Quality of Life: British Columbia is known for its exceptional quality of life, stunning natural landscapes, diverse communities, and recreational opportunities. Entrepreneurs and their families can take advantage of these benefits while developing their businesses.
- Path to Citizenship: Permanent residents (PRs) can apply for Canadian citizenship after fulfilling specific residency criteria. This makes the rights and benefits of being a Canadian citizen available.
- Networking and Collaboration: Entrepreneurs who become part of the British Columbia business community have the chance to network and collaborate with fellow business owners, industry professionals, and organizations. This fosters growth and provides opportunities for learning and development.
- Regional Pilot Advantages: Smaller areas can provide unique possibilities and benefits, like reduced living and business expenses, to entrepreneurs who apply via the Regional Pilot.
- Support and Resources: The BC PNP and related organizations frequently offer assistance, resources, and direction to entrepreneurs launching or acquiring businesses in the territory.
Although the Entrepreneur Immigration Stream offers numerous advantages, it comes with certain requirements. These requirements include meeting specific qualifying criteria, demonstrating the sustainability of the business, and committing to active participation in the management of the company. It’s important to note that the program’s details and benefits may change, so for the latest information, it’s advisable to visit the official BC PNP website or consult with a knowledgeable Expert RCIC.
How Can Canserves Help With BC PNP Application?
In the realm of business immigration, there are numerous business and immigration rules and regulations in play. Due to the intricate interplay between these factors and the complex procedural framework, achieving permanent residency requires meticulous planning and active involvement. Therefore, having a skilled and experienced team by your side can greatly assist you in securing your temporary or permanent residency. Our aim is to optimize the alignment between your business and immigration objectives.
As demonstrated in this article, there are numerous factors to consider when applying for Permanent Residency (PR) under the Entrepreneur Immigration category. Canada values entrepreneurs as much as it does skilled workers, and the business immigration path can be more complex than the immigration process for skilled workers, especially without the right guidance and support. Our RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant) and their proficient team are specialists in the Business Visa Application process. With their extensive business expertise, they can assist you in developing a robust business plan that enhances your chances of obtaining approval for your application.
At Canserves, if you wish to apply for entrepreneurship in Canada, we offer full assistance, from completing the immigration forms to guiding you through the submission of supporting documents. We provide comprehensive support at every stage to help you make informed decisions that increase your chances of obtaining Permanent Residency (PR). Ultimately, we will submit your PR application to IRCC on your behalf as an authorized representative.