BC PNP : British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration Program
What is British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration Stream ?
The British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration Stream is a pathway for experienced entrepreneurs who wish to establish or purchase and expand a business in British Columbia, Canada. This stream is part of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) and aims to attract entrepreneurial talent and investment to the province. Successful applicants under this stream may be nominated for Canadian permanent residency.
The British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration Stream offers two categories for individuals who wish to establish or purchase and expand a business in British Columbia. These categories are designed to accommodate different business goals and locations within the province:
1. Entrepreneur Category:
This category is suitable for individuals who want to start a new business or take over an existing business in British Columbia. To be eligible under this category, applicants must meet certain requirements, including:
- Personal Net Worth: Applicants must have a minimum personal net worth as specified by the program.
- Business Experience: Applicants must have at least three years of experience as an active business owner-manager or four years of experience as a senior manager within the last five years.
- Investment: Applicants must make a minimum investment in the proposed business as determined by the program.
- Job Creation: Applicants must create and maintain at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English or French by providing language test results.
2. Regional Entrepreneur Category:
This category is designed to encourage entrepreneurship and business development in smaller communities outside the Vancouver metropolitan area. The eligibility requirements for this category are similar to the Entrepreneur Category, with some additional considerations such as:
- Minimum Investment: The minimum investment requirement for this category may be lower compared to the Entrepreneur Category.
- Business Performance Agreement: Successful applicants under this category are required to sign a Business Performance Agreement that outlines the performance expectations for their business in the designated community.