Canada ranks as one of the wealthiest nations globally, boasting a high per-capita income and a prominent role in international trade. The Canada Start-Up Visa Program offers permanent residence to entrepreneurs and active investors looking to establish or grow businesses in Canada. This program is designed to attract innovative start-ups, with a focus on businesses that have high growth potential and the ability to create jobs for Canadians. Applicants must meet specific criteria, such as securing funding from a designated Canadian venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator.

Similarly, the Quebec Investor Immigration Program targets international investors seeking a Quebec work permit, with the opportunity to obtain permanent residency in Canada shortly after. This program requires applicants to have a high net worth and make a substantial passive investment in Quebec’s economy. Both programs are designed to attract global talent and investment, contributing to Canada’s economic growth and innovation. They also highlight Canada’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in the global market by fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem and attracting experienced investors from around the world.

Key Advantages of the Canada Residence by Investment Program

Benefits include:

• A high quality of life
• Affordable, top-tier education and healthcare
• Family members can be included in the application
• Diverse, welcoming, and lively cities
• Ideal business environment with access to the North American market
• Simple application process with no age limits, net worth, or educational qualifications required

Key Requirements of the Canada Start-up Visa Program

To acquire permanent residence in Canada, foreign entrepreneurs must present an innovative, scalable start-up business that receives approval from a designated organization.

They can choose from the following options:

• Business incubation: No minimum investment is necessary.
• Angel investment: Secure CAD 75,000 from an angel investment group, depending on the business stage.
• Venture capital fund: Obtain CAD 200,000 from a venture capital fund, depending on the business stage.

For all three options, there are additional fees for optional consulting services, government fees, business structuring, document processing, and immigration filing.

Investors must also meet the following requirements:

• Demonstrate proficiency in English or French at the CLB/IELTS 5 level
• Demonstrate they are in good health
• Demonstrate they have no criminal record

Key Requirements of the Quebec Investor Immigration Program

To secure an initial work permit in Quebec, which can lead to permanent residency, applicants must meet both of the following investment criteria:

• A five-year, interest-free investment of CAD 1 million, guaranteed by the Government of Quebec
• A non-refundable contribution of CAD 200,000 to Investissement Québec

Investors must also fulfil the following requirements:

• Possess a minimum of two years of management experience gained within the five years prior to submitting their application
• Have a net worth of at least CAD 2 million
• Hold a qualification that is equivalent to a secondary school diploma in Quebec
• Demonstrate proficiency in spoken French at a minimum level of 7

Process for applying for Canadian Residence by Investment programs

Under the Start-Up Visa Program, applicants must prepare and submit a business proposal that requires approval from a designated government business organization. Once the proposal is approved by a business incubator, angel investment group, or venture capital fund—depending on the chosen investment option—the applicant receives a letter of support. This letter enables them and their family to apply for permanent residence.

In contrast, under the Quebec Investor Immigration Program, the client’s application is processed by the Quebec government, and the investment can be made after receiving approval. Applicants must complete a minimum stay of at least 12 months within two years following the issuance of the work permit. The main applicant must fulfil at least six months of this stay, while the remaining six months can be completed by either the main applicant or their spouse.

To maintain permanent resident status, individuals must physically reside in Canada for at least two out of five years (or 730 days).

Obtaining Canadian Citizenship through the Residence by Investment Program

After maintaining permanent residence in Canada for three years (or 1,095 days) within a five-year period, successful applicants can apply for Canadian citizenship. The Canadian passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 destinations around the globe.