1. Start-Up Visa Program

This program is designed for innovative entrepreneurs who can create jobs for Canadians and compete globally.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Business Idea: You must have a qualifying business, meaning you hold a significant portion of the business and it’s incorporated in Canada.

• Support from a Designated Organization: You need to secure a letter of support from a designated organization, such as a venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator.

• Language Proficiency: You must meet the minimum language requirements in English or French (Canadian Language Benchmark 5) in speaking, reading, listening, and writing.

• Settlement Funds: You must have enough money to settle in Canada, as the Canadian government does not provide financial support to new start-up visa immigrants.

Process:

1. Secure Support: Contact and secure the support of a designated organization. This organization will review your business proposal and may require you to pitch your idea.

2. Receive a Letter of Support: If the organization agrees to support your business, they will provide a letter of support, which is required for your visa application.

3. Submit Your Application: Apply for permanent residence through the Start-Up Visa Program, including the letter of support and proof of meeting other requirements.

4. Application Processing: The application processing can take up to 12 to 16 months.

5. Arrive in Canada: If approved, you and your family can come to Canada as permanent residents.

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) for Entrepreneurs

Each Canadian province and territory, except Quebec, has its own PNP, with specific streams for entrepreneurs and business owners. These programs are designed to attract individuals who can start or invest in businesses that will benefit the local economy.

Eligibility Requirements (General):

• Business Experience: You typically need to have significant business management experience.

• Net Worth: You must demonstrate a legally acquired net worth of a certain amount, which varies by province.

• Investment: You must make a minimum investment in a new or existing business in the province.

• Business Proposal: You usually need to submit a detailed business plan or proposal.

• Exploratory Visit: Some provinces require an exploratory visit to better understand the local market.

Process:

1. Express Interest: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) or directly apply to the province’s entrepreneur program.

2. Invitation to Apply: If your EOI is selected, you will receive an invitation to submit a full application.

3. Submit Application: Provide detailed documentation, including a business plan, proof of net worth, and a commitment to make the required investment.

4. Nomination: If the province approves your application, you will receive a provincial nomination, which gives you additional points under the Express Entry system or allows you to apply directly to IRCC for permanent residence.

5. Apply for Permanent Residence: Submit your PR application to IRCC with your provincial nomination.

3. Self-Employed Persons Program

This program is for individuals with relevant experience in cultural activities, athletics, or farming who intend to become self-employed in Canada.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Relevant Experience: You must have at least two years of experience in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management, and be willing and able to make a significant contribution to cultural or athletic life in Canada or purchase and manage a farm.

• Selection Criteria: You will be assessed on your experience, education, age, language abilities, and adaptability.

• Intent and Ability: You must demonstrate that you intend to and are capable of becoming self-employed in Canada.

Process:

1. Determine Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria for relevant experience and the ability to be self-employed in Canada.

2. Submit Your Application: Apply for permanent residence under the Self-Employed Persons Program.

3. Application Processing: Your application will be processed, and you may be asked to attend an interview.

4. Medical and Security Checks: You and your family members will need to pass medical and security checks.

5. Receive Permanent Residence: If approved, you and your family will receive permanent residence in Canada.

4. Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP)

(Please note that this program is currently on hold, and no new applications are being accepted as of my last update.)

• Eligibility Requirements: You needed to have a legally acquired net worth of at least CAD $2 million and invest CAD $1.2 million in a government-backed investment for five years.

• Process: The process involved applying through the Quebec government and, upon approval, applying for Canadian permanent residence.

5. Immigrant Investor Venture Capital (IIVC) Pilot Program

(This program is currently closed.)

This program was aimed at high-net-worth individuals willing to invest CAD $2 million in a venture capital fund. The program was intended to attract investors who could contribute to Canada's economy.