Pathways to Canadian Citizenship through Investment (2025)

Canada does not offer direct citizenship-by-investment (unlike some countries where one can essentially “buy” citizenship). Instead, Canada provides investment-based immigration pathways that lead to permanent residency (PR) – and, after meeting residency requirements, to citizenship. These programs typically require substantial investments or business establishment in Canada and are available at both the federal and provincial levels.

This report outlines all currently valid (as of March 2025) investment immigration pathways – including federal programs and provincial/territorial nominee programs – that can ultimately lead to Canadian citizenship. Key details for each program are provided, including eligibility criteria, investment requirements, legal basis, process (with processing times), the PR-to-citizenship pathway, limitations/risks, and recent updates.

Note: To obtain citizenship, an immigrant investor must first become a permanent resident and then fulfill the residency and other requirements under Canada’s Citizenship Act. In general, citizenship requires at least 3 years of physical presence in Canada out of 5 years as a permanent resident, among other conditions (e.g. language/knowledge tests for certain ages). There is no expedited or direct citizenship by investment – all programs entail time and commitment in Canada.

Federal Investment-Based Immigration Programs

Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program

The Start-Up Visa Program is a federal program that grants permanent residence to immigrant entrepreneurs who launch innovative businesses in Canada (outside Quebec). It effectively allows a team of up to five foreign entrepreneurs (plus their families) to immigrate, provided they secure support from designated Canadian investors or incubators. Permanent residence is granted upfront upon a successful application – without a conditional period of running the business (though an interim work permit is available to start building the venture). Key features include:

• Eligibility & Support Requirement: Applicants must have a qualifying business idea and secure support from a designated organization in Canada. This can be: (a) an investment of at least C$200,000 from a designated venture capital fund, (b) an investment of at least C$75,000 from a designated angel investor group, or (c) acceptance into a designated business incubator program (no upfront investment required from the incubator). A letter of support from one of these designated organizations is mandatory.
• Ownership Criteria: The applicant (and up to four co-founders) must hold at least 10% of voting shares each, and together with the supporting organization, they must control more than 50% of the company’s voting rights. The business must be incorporated in Canada, with essential operations and management in Canada.
• Other Requirements: A minimum language proficiency of CLB level 5 in English or French (intermediate) is required. Applicants must also bring sufficient settlement funds to support themselves and dependents upon landing, as required for all economic immigrants (the exact amount depends on family size).
• Legal Basis: The Start-Up Visa falls under the “Start-up Business Class” in Canada’s immigration regulations, introduced as a pilot in 2013 and later made permanent. It is enabled by IRPA/IRPR (Immigration and Refugee Protection Act/Regulations) and is administered federally by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).
• Application Process: The process involves obtaining the support letter, then submitting the PR application to IRCC. While the PR application is in process, entrepreneurs can apply for a temporary work permit to come to Canada and begin building the business. Processing times for the PR have been long in recent years – currently about 40 months (over 3 years) on average – due to high demand. Notably, IRCC has imposed caps on applications per designated investor to manage intake (on a first-come, first-served basis, in place until end of 2026).
• Pathway to Citizenship: Successful SUV applicants become permanent residents upon arrival, with no condition to later revoke PR if the business fails. After accumulating at least 3 years of physical presence in Canada within a 5-year period (and meeting other citizenship requirements like filing taxes), they can apply for citizenship. For example, an SUV immigrant who lands as a PR and resides in Canada continuously could be eligible for citizenship in about 3 to 4 years after landing (processing of the citizenship application takes roughly 1 year, so around 4–5 years total from PR to citizen in a best-case scenario).
• Limitations/Risks: Obtaining a commitment from a designated investor/incubator is challenging – applicants must convince Canadian VCs, angel groups, or incubators of their start-up’s potential. The program is also small and competitive by nature (limited designated organizations and capped slots per organization). A key advantage of the SUV, however, is that permanent residence is not tied to business success – if the start-up doesn’t succeed, the immigrant’s PR status (and pathway to citizenship) remains intact. The main risks are delay (long processing times) and the possibility of refusal if the business proposal or supporting organization doesn’t satisfy IRCC’s due diligence. Additionally, applicants must still relocate to Canada and integrate; failure to actually move to Canada and meet residency days could thwart eventual citizenship (as with any PR). Recent program updates have aimed at managing intake (the new cap system) and prioritizing applications with certain types of backing (e.g. those backed by VCs), which prospective applicants should keep in mind.

Immigrant Investor Venture Capital (IIVC) Pilot – (Discontinued)

(Note: The federal Immigrant Investor Program that once offered PR for a passive investment of C$800,000 was terminated in 2014. Its successor, the Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot (IIVC), which ran briefly in 2015-2016 requiring a C$2 million investment in a venture fund, is no longer active. As such, there are no active federal passive investor visa programs in 2025 aside from the Start-Up Visa. The Self-Employed Persons Program is another federal business category, but it is based on cultural/athletic experience rather than a financial investment, so it is outside the scope of “citizenship through investment.”)

Quebec Programs

Under the Canada-Quebec Accord, the province of Quebec operates its own immigration programs for investors and entrepreneurs, which are separate from federal programs. Quebec-selected immigrants receive a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ) from the provincial immigration ministry (MIFI) and then must be approved by IRCC federally for PR. Quebec’s most notable investment pathway is the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP). (Quebec also has entrepreneur and self-employed streams, but the QIIP is unique in Canada as a passive investor program.)

Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP)

The Quebec Immigrant Investor Program is the only passive “investment visa” program in Canada, allowing high-net-worth individuals to obtain permanent residence without actively managing a business. In exchange for a large financial investment and meeting certain criteria, investors (and their immediate family) can become permanent residents via Quebec. After a hiatus since 2019, QIIP was reopened in 2024 with new requirements favoring French-speaking investors. Key details of QIIP (2024–2025 intake) include:

• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must have at least 2 years of full-time management experience in the past 5 years (in legal farming, commercial, industrial or professional sectors or government/NGO management). A minimum net worth of C$2 million is required, proven with legal documentation. Applicants must also have at least a secondary school education (equivalent to Quebec high school) and must obtain an attestation of learning about Quebec values and democratic values (a brief online course/certification).
• Investment Requirements: The investor must sign an agreement with a government-approved financial intermediary to invest C$1,000,000 in a prescribed, 5-year term investment, and also pay a non-refundable financial contribution of C$200,000 to Investissement Québec – Immigrants Investisseurs Inc.. In practice, this is often structured as a deposit of C$1,200,000 total, where C$200k is a fee and C$1M is returned after 5 years without interest (the investment is government-guaranteed). This sizable passive investment is the price for the Quebec selection. (Financing options may be offered by banks for the $1M portion, but the $200k must be an out-of-pocket contribution.)
• French Language Requirement: In the 2024 relaunch, QIIP introduced a mandatory French proficiency criterion. The principal applicant must demonstrate at least level 7 French speaking ability on Quebec’s scale (approximately intermediate-advanced level, B2). Even native French speakers must pass an approved French test to prove this. This requirement means the program is limited to francophone investors, aligning with Quebec’s interest in selecting immigrants likely to integrate linguistically.
• Residency (Quebec) Requirement: Uniquely, QIIP now has a two-step process involving a period of residence in Quebec on a work permit before full selection. Once an application is approved by Quebec, the applicant receives a “notice of intention to be selected”, which allows them to apply for a work permit. The investor (as a temporary resident) must then reside in Quebec for at least 12 months within the next 2 years, with at least 6 months of that stay being physically completed by the principal applicant (the remaining 6 months can be fulfilled by the spouse). After proving this Quebec stay, the applicant obtains the Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) and can then apply to the federal government for permanent residence. This step was added to ensure QIIP immigrants genuinely establish themselves in Quebec (a response to past issues of investors obtaining PR via Quebec but then residing elsewhere in Canada).
• Legal Basis: The QIIP is authorized by Quebec’s immigration legislation and the Canada-Quebec Accord. Federally, QIIP falls under the IRPR provisions for the “Quebec Investor Class”. Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) manages the selection and investment process, while IRCC conducts security/medical checks for PR. Notably, IRPR 87(5) explicitly excludes from the federal PNP class any immigrant selected by a province solely for their capital investment – QIIP is not a PNP but a separate Quebec class, which is why this passive investment pathway exists only under Quebec’s authority.
• Application Process & Timing: Applications to QIIP are submitted to Quebec’s immigration authorities through designated financial intermediaries. Quebec typically accepts a limited number of applications during intake windows. After Quebec’s approval (which can take 1–2 years for the selection process), the federal stage for PR can be lengthy. According to IRCC, processing times for Quebec business applicants (investors/entrepreneurs) are currently around 71 months (nearly 6 years) for the PR stage. This is largely due to a backlog of applications from previous intakes. Quebec has indicated interest in modernizing and speeding up the process for new francophone investors, but as of 2025 the overall journey can easily take 5–7 years from application to actually becoming a permanent resident. (During this wait, applicants live in Quebec on a work permit as noted.)
• Pathway to Citizenship: After obtaining permanent residence via QIIP, the investor can qualify for citizenship by residing in Canada (Quebec or elsewhere) for at least 3 years in a 5-year span. Given the program’s design, a QIIP applicant will have already spent 1+ years in Quebec on a work permit; that time may count towards citizenship (each day on a valid temporary status counts as a half day toward the 3-year requirement, up to a max of 365 days credit). In practice, a QIIP immigrant might become eligible for citizenship roughly 5–6 years after initial Quebec arrival – for example, 2 years on work permit + 3 years as a PR – assuming they maintain residence in Canada.
• Limitations/Risks: The QIIP demands a very high financial commitment (the C$200,000 contribution is non-refundable) and is limited to French speakers, which greatly narrows the pool of eligible applicants. The opportunity cost of the C$1,000,000 investment (locked for 5 years with no interest) is also significant. Another challenge is the lengthy timeline – investors must be prepared for a potentially long wait for PR status, during which they need to live in Quebec and adapt to life there. If the 12-month Quebec residence requirement is not met, the applicant will not get the CSQ (essentially nullifying the effort). Moreover, while Quebec guarantees the return of the $1M after 5 years, that money yields no profit; the program essentially costs $200k (plus fees) for the privilege of Canadian PR. Despite these drawbacks, QIIP remains attractive to those who do meet the criteria because it does not require running a business – the investor can fulfill the requirements passively. It’s a relatively straightforward (if expensive) route to Canadian PR for wealthy, French-proficient individuals. Recent updates: as noted, the program reopened in January 2024 after being closed since 2019. The 2024–2025 intake has stricter criteria (French language, higher investment) aimed at ensuring integration and economic contribution. Prospective applicants should stay aware of any future quota announcements or changes Quebec might implement as it refines the program post-reopening.

(Quebec also offers a Quebec Entrepreneur Program, which requires establishing or acquiring a business in Quebec. That program has two streams – one for start-ups supported by a Quebec incubator/accelerator, and one for owner-operated small businesses with minimum investment of C$200,000 (or $300,000 if in Montreal) and net worth of $900,000. The Quebec Entrepreneur pathway similarly leads to a CSQ and PR, but it requires active business management in Quebec and, as of 2025, also gives priority to francophone applicants. While an important pathway, it is conceptually similar to the provincial entrepreneur programs discussed below, so we focus on QIIP as Quebec’s unique “investor” route.)

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Entrepreneur Streams

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) exist in most provinces and territories to allow local governments to nominate immigrants who wish to settle in their region. Many provinces operate Entrepreneur or Investor PNP streams that target individuals who will start or invest in businesses and actively manage them, in exchange for a pathway to PR. While requirements vary by province, these programs generally follow a two-step process:

1. Provincial Stage: The prospective immigrant applies to the province, outlining a business plan and demonstrating they meet criteria (such as minimum investment, net worth, experience, etc.). If approved, the province issues a provincial nomination (or, initially, a provisional approval or invitation followed by a performance agreement).
2. Federal Stage: Nominees then apply to IRCC for permanent residence as a Provincial Nominee. A provincial nomination virtually guarantees PR as long as medical/security checks are passed, since nominees are considered to have met economic requirements. IRCC’s processing for PNP PR applications is currently around 11 months after nomination.

However, most PNP entrepreneur streams do not grant nomination immediately – instead, the applicant is first issued a letter of support for a work permit, spends a period (often 1–2 years) establishing the business on a work permit, and only receives the nomination for PR once they fulfill the business plan commitments (e.g. investing the promised amount and creating jobs). This is formalized through a performance agreement that the applicant signs with the province before getting the work permit. In short, PNP investor programs are “conditional” – the investment and business must materialize before PR is granted. This structure exists because of federal regulations that prohibit straight “cash-for-PR” nominations. In fact, IRPR 87(5) explicitly excludes from the PNP class any applicant whose nomination is based solely on capital provision or an “immigration-linked investment scheme”. Provinces therefore require active business involvement and job creation, rather than just a passive investment.

Despite variations, common eligibility factors include: a minimum personal net worth, a minimum investment amount into a new or existing business in the province, a certain level of management experience, an age range (often 21–59), basic language proficiency (often CLB 4 or 5), and the ability to create local jobs. Most streams use an Expression of Interest (EOI) point system to rank candidates and invite the most qualified to apply (considering factors like investment size, experience, age, language, etc.). Below is an overview of each province’s entrepreneur program that is currently active (as of March 2025), excluding any that have been discontinued or paused.

Ontario: OINP Entrepreneur Stream

Ontario’s immigrant investor route is the Entrepreneur Stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). It requires candidates to establish a new business or buy an existing business in Ontario and actively manage it. Key requirements include:

• Net Worth: Minimum C$800,000 net worth if the proposed business will be in the Toronto GTA (Greater Toronto Area); or C$400,000 if outside the GTA or if the business is in the ICT/Digital Communications sector (anywhere in Ontario). A third-party professional must verify the net worth.
• Investment & Ownership: Minimum personal investment of C$600,000 if the business is in the GTA, or C$200,000 if outside the GTA (or in ICT sector). The applicant must control at least 33.3% (one-third) ownership of the business. The investment must be in eligible business expenses (not passive or personal expenses).
• Job Creation: The business must create at least 2 permanent full-time jobs for Canadian citizens or PRs if in the GTA, or at least 1 job if outside the GTA (or in ICT sector). These jobs must be paid at market rate and exist for at least 10 months prior to nomination.
• Experience: At least 2 years of full-time business experience in the last 5 years, as either an owner (with at least 1/3 ownership) or a senior manager with significant decision-making responsibility.
• Language: CLB 4 in English or French is required at the time of nomination (i.e. by the end of the process). In practice, this is a basic proficiency level.
• Legal Basis & Process: After submitting an Expression of Interest and being invited, the applicant submits a detailed application. If approved, they sign a Performance Agreement with Ontario outlining the investment, job creation, and business milestones. Ontario then issues a letter of support for a temporary work permit, allowing the applicant to come to Ontario and implement the business plan. They have 20 months to establish the business in Ontario and meet the Performance Agreement conditions. If conditions are met (confirmed by an OINP site visit/report), Ontario nominates the applicant for PR. After nomination, the applicant applies to IRCC for PR (taking ~11 months). Ontario monitors the business for 36 months after PR to ensure compliance.
• Recent Updates: Ontario has occasionally adjusted points and criteria, but as of 2025 the requirements above are in place. In 2022, Ontario launched an Entrepreneur Success Initiative to attract candidates outside the GTA by lowering some thresholds (which is essentially reflected in the lower investment/net worth requirements for outside GTA).
• Limitations/Risks: Ontario’s process is lengthy and competitive – applicants must first be selected from the EOI pool. They must invest a substantial amount at risk and create jobs before any guarantee of PR. Businesses in the GTA face higher thresholds due to market demand. Additionally, certain business types are ineligible (e.g. adult entertainment, payday loans, etc., as listed by OINP). The risk lies in investing time and money to establish a business under a temporary status; if the business fails or the targets are not met, the applicant will not get PR. On the other hand, Ontario is Canada’s economic hub, and a successful business here can be very rewarding. Once PR is obtained and if the investor resides in Ontario/Canada for 3+ years, they can proceed to citizenship like any other PR.

British Columbia: BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration

British Columbia offers the Entrepreneur Immigration (EI) stream under the BC Provincial Nominee Program, with two categories: the Base Stream for ventures in urban/suburban areas, and the Regional Stream for businesses in smaller communities. (A separate pilot for regional entrepreneurs was integrated into the current Regional Stream.) The criteria are:

• Net Worth: At least C$600,000 net worth for the Base Stream. For the Regional Stream, at least C$300,000 net worth.
• Investment & Ownership: Minimum investment of C$200,000 in the proposed business for the Base Stream. For the Regional Stream, at least C$100,000 investment. Applicants must hold at least one-third (33.3%) ownership in the business (if less, must invest $1+ million).
• Job Creation: Create at least 1 new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or PR (in both streams). (If a Key Staff member is proposed for immigration alongside the owner, then 2 jobs must be created.)
• Experience & Language: The Base category expects business or management experience and, if no post-secondary education, a minimum of 3 years active business experience. The Regional category specifically requires prior business ownership/management experience and a community referral from the small community you intend to settle in. Both streams require a minimum of CLB 4 language ability (must be proved at nomination time).
• Process: BC uses an online point-based EOI system. Candidates with the highest points (which factor in investment, jobs, experience, adaptability, etc.) are invited to apply. After BC’s assessment and an in-person interview, approved applicants sign a Performance Agreement and receive a work permit support letter. They have approximately 20 months to implement the business in BC. If they meet the terms (investment made, jobs created, etc.), they can submit a final report and BC will issue a nomination certificate, allowing them to apply for PR.
• Recent Updates: BC’s Regional Entrepreneur stream (which was a pilot targeting communities under 75,000 population) became a permanent component with a refined process and continued community involvement. The Base stream criteria have remained stable in recent years, though BC regularly adjusts its point scoring to manage demand.
• Limitations/Risks: BC imposes a lower investment requirement in regions to encourage economic development outside Greater Vancouver. The community referral in the Regional Stream means applicants must secure support from the local economic development office – this adds an extra step. The types of businesses allowed can be limited; for example, BC may refuse proposals that don’t add significant economic benefit or that are in saturated industries. As with all PNP entrepreneur programs, the main risk is not fulfilling the Performance Agreement (e.g. due to business challenges), which would result in no nomination. The relatively moderate investment sums (compared to Ontario or QIIP) make BC attractive, but that also means high competition for invites. Successful BC nominees who obtain PR can qualify for citizenship in ~5 years if they continuously reside in Canada (3 years physical presence required as usual).

Alberta: AAIP Entrepreneur Streams

Alberta operates several entrepreneur streams under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). As of 2025, Alberta has four active streams targeting different profiles:

• Rural Entrepreneur Stream: For those starting a business in a rural Alberta community (population <100k, 100+ km from a major city). Requires ≥3 years of business ownership or 4 years senior management experience, net worth ≥ C$300,000, minimum C$100,000 investment into the business, 51% ownership if new business, and at least 1 full-time job created for a Canadian/PR. A community support letter is also needed from the rural municipality. Language minimum CLB 4.
• Graduate Entrepreneur Stream: For international graduates of Alberta post-secondary institutions. Requires a degree or diploma (at least 2 years) from an Alberta institution, a valid Post-Graduation Work Permit, and a minimum CLB 7 language. No fixed net worth or investment minimum is given, but the candidate must establish or buy a business with at least 34% ownership. This stream is geared to retain talents educated in Alberta.
• Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream: For foreign nationals who graduated outside Canada. Requires a post-secondary degree (outside Canada) within last 10 years, 6+ months of business ownership/management experience, and a letter of recommendation from an AAIP-designated agency (which evaluates the business proposal). Investment: minimum C$100,000 if in Calgary/Edmonton (urban) or **C$50,000 if in a regional area). Ownership of 34% (urban) or 51% (regional) is required. Language must be CLB 5+. Essentially, this is for younger foreign entrepreneurs with education who can bring new startups to Alberta.
• Farm Stream: For experienced farm operators who will buy or start a farm in Alberta. It requires farm management skills and experience (documentation of farm business experience), a minimum net worth of C$500,000 (or ability to invest at least that), and a minimum investment of C$500,000 in an Alberta farming enterprise. A detailed proposal for a new or purchased farm is needed and must meet Alberta’s agriculture industry needs.
• Process: Each of these streams uses an EOI system with specific scoring matrices. After invitation and application, Alberta may require an interview. Approved candidates (except the Farm Stream, which may nominate directly) usually get a Business Performance Agreement and a work permit support letter to establish the venture, similar to other PNPs. After meeting the terms (typically operating for at least 12 months for the general entrepreneur streams), Alberta nominates for PR.
• Legal Basis: As with other PNPs, Alberta nominations fall under IRPR 87 as provincial nominees (economic class). Alberta must be satisfied the candidate will reside in Alberta and the business will benefit the province.
• Recent Updates: Alberta’s entrepreneur streams were revamped in 2021–2022 (the Rural, Graduate, and Foreign Graduate streams are relatively new). They reflect Alberta’s focused approach to attract investment to rural communities and to encourage young entrepreneurs. In 2024, minor adjustments were made to eligible communities and the list of designated agencies for recommendations.
• Limitations/Risks: The presence of multiple streams means applicants must choose the one they fit best and ensure they meet all criteria. The Rural stream requires securing community support, which can be a hurdle. The Foreign Graduate stream uniquely requires a third-party endorsement (letter of recommendation), effectively adding an extra vetting step. The Farm stream demands very specific expertise and capital. Overall, Alberta’s financial requirements (net worth and investment) are moderate compared to some provinces, but the emphasis on genuine experience and solid business plans is high. As always, if the business fails to materialize or targets aren’t met, nomination will not be issued. Those who do settle and get nominated enjoy Alberta’s growing economy and can aim for citizenship in a few years, provided they continue to reside in Canada.

Manitoba: Business Investor Stream (Entrepreneur & Farm)

Manitoba’s Provincial Nominee Program includes a Business Investor Stream (BIS) with two pathways: the Entrepreneur Pathway and the Farm Investor Pathway. These replaced Manitoba’s previous investor program (which had required a deposit) with a performance-based model.

• Entrepreneur Pathway: Requires a minimum personal net worth of C$500,000 (verified by a third party). The applicant needs at least 3 years of full-time business ownership or senior management experience in the past 5 years. Minimum investment of C$250,000 if the business is in Winnipeg (Manitoba’s capital region) or C$150,000 if outside Winnipeg. The business must create or maintain at least one job for a Canadian or PR (other than the owner). A business plan is required, and the business must be in an eligible sector defined by the province. Language proficiency minimum is CLB 5. The applicant signs a Business Performance Agreement and is initially given a work permit support letter; after establishing the business and running it successfully for typically 12+ months, they may be nominated for PR.
• Farm Investor Pathway (FIP): Targets individuals with farm business experience who will establish a farm in rural Manitoba. Requirements include minimum net worth of C$500,000, at least 3 years of farm ownership/operation experience, and a minimum investment of C$300,000 into a farming enterprise in Manitoba. The farm must be in rural Manitoba (not near Winnipeg) and in primary agriculture (with plans for value-add production preferred). The applicant must conduct an exploratory visit to Manitoba and produce a viable farm business plan. There is an interview to assess language ability (no formal test score, but functional English/French is expected). Passive or speculative farm investments (e.g. simply buying land without active operation) are ineligible. Similar to the entrepreneur path, a performance agreement is signed and a work permit issued to start the farm; nomination comes after meeting terms.
• Process & Recent Updates: Manitoba uses an EOI scoring system for both pathways. Points are awarded for factors like age, business experience, investment amount (higher investment can earn more points), location of investment (extra points for rural areas in Entrepreneur Pathway), language, etc. After invitation, Manitoba conducts a thorough assessment including an interview. Since 2018, the old requirement to place a $100,000 deposit with the province has been removed – now funds are invested directly into the business/farm. In late 2023, Manitoba adjusted some policy details to streamline farm applications and updated its list of eligible businesses. The process typically takes 1–2 years for the work permit stage and business setup, plus another year for nomination and PR processing.
• Limitations/Risks: Manitoba’s program is relatively accessible (net worth $500k) compared to some larger provinces, which makes it popular. However, the required investment in Winnipeg (C$250k) is not trivial, and outside Winnipeg the investor must be ready to live in smaller communities. The province expects active management; hands-off investors will not qualify. For the Farm pathway, candidates must genuinely be farmers – it’s a niche program for those intending to farm for a living in Canada. A risk factor is the points system – meeting minimum criteria doesn’t guarantee an invitation, as only higher-scoring candidates get invited. Also, like all entrepreneur streams, if the investor fails to establish the business or meet the job and investment targets (for example, due to market conditions), they can lose the opportunity for nomination. Upon successfully establishing the business and settling, Manitoba nominees can later apply for citizenship after meeting the standard residency requirement. Manitoba’s lower cost of living and community support for new businesses are advantages, but applicants should weigh them against the challenge of building a business in a new environment.

Saskatchewan: Entrepreneur Program (Closed in 2025)

(Note: Saskatchewan historically ran an Entrepreneur and Farm Category under the SINP (Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program) with requirements of C$500k net worth and C$200k investment in Regina/Saskatoon or $300k in smaller towns. However, effective March 2025 Saskatchewan permanently closed all its entrepreneur and farm immigration pathways. No new applications are being accepted. This was a significant update, possibly to revamp the program or due to underperformance. Applicants already in process may continue, but as of March 27, 2025, Saskatchewan is not a viable option for new investor immigrants. All references to Saskatchewan’s program are thus historical.)

New Brunswick: Business Immigration Stream

New Brunswick replaced its former Entrepreneurial Stream with a revised Business Immigration Stream (NB BIS), which opened in 2022. This program requires the candidate to operate a business in NB for at least 12 months on a work permit before nomination. Key requirements include:

• Net Worth: Minimum C$500,000 net worth (of which at least $300,000 must be liquid assets) for general business applicants. If the business is in the forestry or farming sector, a lower net worth of C$300,000 is acceptable.
• Investment & Business: Minimum investment of C$150,000 into establishing or buying a business in New Brunswick. The plan must include creation of at least one full-time job for a Canadian or PR (in addition to the owner). The applicant must own at least 51% of the business if it’s a new business (or 33.3% if an existing business) and actively manage it. A detailed business plan and business proposal are required, and certain industries may be restricted. An exploratory visit of at least 5 business days in NB prior to applying is strongly encouraged (and earns extra points).
• Experience: At least 3 years of recent business ownership (with significant ownership and managerial role) or 5 years in a senior management role, with reference to having managed at least 2 employees. This experience must be in the last 5 years.
• Age & Language: Age between 21 and 59. Minimum CLB 4 in English or French (basic proficiency). High school education or above is required.
• Process: Candidates submit an EOI and need at least 65 points on NB’s entrepreneur scoring grid to be considered. Factors include age, language, education, business experience, net worth, investment, adaptability (e.g., previous visits or family in NB). Selected candidates are invited to apply, submit a comprehensive application and business plan, and if approved, sign a Business Performance Agreement. They then receive a temporary Work Permit Support Letter to apply for a work permit and come to New Brunswick. The candidate must establish the business and operate it for a minimum of 12 consecutive months in NB while meeting all commitments. After 12 months of operation and meeting the agreement terms, the applicant can request a provincial nomination. (Notably, NB now allows applicants to request nomination after 6 months of operations under certain conditions as of early 2025, suggesting some flexibility if all milestones are hit.) With the nomination, they apply for PR to IRCC.
• Recent Updates: New Brunswick paused new EOI intakes in 2023 to update its programs, and in February 2025 it announced a controlled reopening of pathways with possible tweaks. The “Business Immigration Stream” is relatively new; one update was the ability to request nomination after 6 months of business operation (for fast achievers) in 2024. The program emphasizes genuine settlement – points for prior visits and local experience reflect that.
• Limitations/Risks: NB’s requirement to actually run the business for a year before nomination means applicants must relocate and assume the full risk of business ownership without PR status for at least a year. This is a significant commitment. The net worth and investment thresholds (500k/150k) are moderate, but NB is a smaller market – one must find a viable business opportunity in the province’s economy. On the flip side, the one-job requirement is relatively modest. Applicants should be aware that NB gives priority to those who demonstrate genuine intent to live in New Brunswick (through visits, etc.). If an applicant were to abandon the business or leave the province, the nomination would be in jeopardy. For those who succeed, after becoming a permanent resident and living in NB/Canada for 3+ years, they can pursue citizenship. New Brunswick’s lower cost of entry and supportive business environment can be attractive, but commitment to the province’s community is expected.

Nova Scotia: Entrepreneur & International Graduate Entrepreneur

Nova Scotia has two streams under its NSNP (Nova Scotia Nominee Program) for investors: the Entrepreneur Stream and the International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream.

• Entrepreneur Stream: This is for experienced business owners or senior managers who wish to start or buy a business in Nova Scotia and settle there. Requirements: Net worth of at least C$600,000 (or $400,000 if the business will be outside the Halifax region). Minimum investment of C$150,000 into the business ($100,000 if outside Halifax). At least 3 years of business ownership (with 33.3% ownership) or 5+ years senior management experience. Age 21 or older (no upper age limit stated, but presumably under 60 is ideal). Language proficiency CLB 5 or higher in English or French. The entrepreneur must actively manage the business and be present in Nova Scotia. The process: Submit EOI, receive invite, apply and get interviewed. If approved, sign Performance Agreement, get a work permit for 1 year, establish the business (must own at least 33% and create at least one full-time job for a Canadian/PR), then after one year of operations, if all conditions are met, get nomination for PR.
• International Graduate Entrepreneur (IGE) Stream: This is for recent graduates of Nova Scotia universities or community colleges who have already started a business in Nova Scotia. To qualify, the graduate must have at least one year of continuous experience operating their Nova Scotia business (with at least 33% ownership). They must have completed at least a 2-year full-time diploma/degree from a recognized Nova Scotia post-secondary institution and have a valid Post-Graduation Work Permit. Language requirement is CLB 7 (higher, since these are recent grads likely fluent). If they meet these conditions, they can be nominated directly for PR (no interim work permit stage since they already have one and have operated the business for a year). The IGE stream is essentially a retention program to keep international students who create local businesses.
• Legal/process notes: Nova Scotia uses points and EOI for the main Entrepreneur stream (factors include net worth, investment, experience, age, language, adaptability). The IGE stream does not use EOI; one can apply after meeting the criteria. The province requires an in-person interview before nomination for the Entrepreneur stream. Once nominated, IRCC PR processing follows (around 11–12 months).
• Recent Updates: Nova Scotia’s criteria have been steady for a few years. A notable feature is the slightly lower thresholds for investing outside Halifax to incentivize rural investment (e.g., $100k vs $150k investment). In 2024, Nova Scotia increased promotion of the IGE stream to international students as part of its population growth strategy, but no major changes in criteria.
• Limitations/Risks: Nova Scotia’s entrepreneur stream has a lower investment floor (100k outside Halifax) which is attractive, but it’s offset by a higher language requirement (CLB 5) than some other PNPs, ensuring immigrants can integrate and operate in the community. The requirement to actively run the business for a year before nomination still applies, meaning financial risk is on the applicant. Business categories like bed-and-breakfasts, convenience stores, or landholding companies may be restricted due to limited economic impact. The IGE stream is only for those who already have established a business during their studies – a narrow funnel, but it provides a direct PR pathway to entrepreneurial grads. Overall, Nova Scotia offers a welcoming environment, and successful entrepreneurs who settle can enjoy a high quality of life. After PR, the usual 3-year residency rule applies for citizenship. Many find Nova Scotia’s lifestyle appealing enough to stay through to citizenship, but as always, one must actually reside in Canada to achieve that.

Prince Edward Island (PEI): Work Permit Stream (Business Impact Category)

Prince Edward Island, Canada’s smallest province, runs a Work Permit Stream for business investors as part of its Business Impact Category. (PEI previously had a direct investor PR stream that required a deposit, but it was discontinued; the current model mandates a work permit first.) The PEI Work Permit Stream requires:

• Net Worth: Minimum C$600,000 personal net worth, verifiably obtained through legal means.
• Investment & Business: The applicant must commit to invest at least C$150,000 into a new or existing business in PEI within 12 months of landing. They must own at least 33.3% of the business or invest at least C$1 million equity if ownership is less than a third. A Performance Agreement is signed, which typically includes the investment amount, business sector, job creation (at least one full-time job to be created for a non-family Canadian/PR), and other terms. The applicant is also required to actively manage the daily operations and reside in PEI.
• Experience: Business ownership or senior management experience is expected (though no explicit year count is given on the PEI government site, in practice at least 3 years is advisable).
• Education: Minimum of a high school diploma (secondary school equivalent).
• Age: 21–59 years old.
• Language: Minimum CLB 4 in English or French (basic proficiency).
• Process: Prospective applicants must first submit an EOI profile to PEI’s system. If invited, they provide a comprehensive application along with a business plan. An in-person interview in PEI is part of the process. If approved, PEI issues a Letter of Support for a Work Permit, and the applicant obtains a work permit from IRCC. They move to PEI and have to operate the business for a minimum of 12 consecutive months, investing the agreed amount and meeting the job creation and management requirements. After one year, if all terms of the Performance Agreement are met (verified by PEI officials), the province nominates the individual for permanent residence. They then apply to IRCC for PR.
• Legal Basis: PEI’s nomination falls under the PNP provincial nominee class. PEI’s Office of Immigration works closely with applicants during the work permit stage to monitor progress. Notably, since this is a work-permit-first model, no outright deposit is taken by the government – the investment goes into the business itself. (Previously, PEI had taken a $200k refundable deposit, but that ended in 2018 amid criticism; the current approach shifts risk to the investor’s business performance).
• Recent Updates: In 2022, PEI mandated third-party net worth verification by designated accountants for all invited applicants. This added due diligence ensures funds are legitimate. PEI also has periodically adjusted its EOI scoring to prioritize certain sectors or rural areas, but the core criteria have remained $600k net worth/$150k investment. The stream continues to be one of the more popular per capita, so EOI draws are competitive.
• Limitations/Risks: Given PEI’s size, the range of viable businesses can be limited – the province encourages businesses that align with its needs (e.g., in tourism, agriculture, fisheries, IT, manufacturing). The investor must be prepared to live on a small island province and personally run a business there, which is a lifestyle adjustment. If the investor fails to fulfill the performance agreement (for instance, doesn’t invest the full $150k or leaves PEI), they will not receive nomination. The requirement to be physically present and engaged in PEI is strict – absentee business owners won’t qualify. For those who do integrate and run a business successfully, PEI provides a tight-knit community and a straightforward nomination. After obtaining PR and spending 3+ years in Canada (which can include time in PEI on a work permit counted partially toward citizenship), the investor can apply for Canadian citizenship. A potential risk is that some PEI nominees in the past would relocate to bigger cities after gaining PR, something the province tries to curb by careful monitoring; such behavior could complicate one’s citizenship residence requirements if they leave Canada for long periods. Thus, commitment to Canada (and ideally PEI) is important through the citizenship stage.

Newfoundland & Labrador: International Entrepreneur

Newfoundland & Labrador (NL) offers an International Entrepreneur category under the NL Provincial Nominee Program. This stream, launched in 2018, is similar to other provincial entrepreneur programs:

• Net Worth: Minimum C$600,000 net business and personal assets, with at least $300,000 in liquid funds.
• Investment: Minimum C$200,000 investment into starting a new business or purchasing an existing business in Newfoundland & Labrador. The applicant must own at least 33.3% of the business unless investing $1M+ (then smaller ownership is allowed).
• Experience: At least 2 years of business ownership experience in the last 5, or 5 years of senior management experience.
• Education: At least a high school diploma.
• Language: CLB 5 or higher in English/French.
• Age: 21–59.
• Job Creation: At least one full-time job must be created for a Canadian or PR (if the business is in an urban area or a larger business, more jobs may be expected).
• Process: NL uses an EOI system with points. Selected candidates apply, undergo an interview, and if approved, sign a Business Performance Agreement. They get a temporary work permit support letter, operate the business in NL for at least one year, then may be nominated for PR. Newfoundland’s program especially encourages businesses that fill economic gaps in the province (which has a smaller economy focused on natural resources, fisheries, tourism, etc.). The applicant must do an exploratory visit to NL before applying (unless they have prior substantial knowledge of the province).
• International Graduate Entrepreneur: NL also has a separate stream for international graduates of Memorial University or College of the North Atlantic (in NL) who have started a business in the province. It mirrors Nova Scotia’s IGE stream, allowing direct nomination if the graduate has run a business for at least a year. This requires a post-secondary credential from NL and CLB 7 language. This is a small, specialized pathway to retain students.
• Recent Updates: NL’s program has seen relatively few changes since inception. One update is increased flexibility in recognizing management experience. The province also promoted immigration more heavily in 2023–24 due to labor shortages, potentially increasing allocations for the entrepreneur stream.
• Limitations/Risks: Newfoundland & Labrador is geographically remote and has a small population, which can make finding suitable business opportunities challenging. The climate and lifestyle are unique (some investors may find integration difficult if not prepared for Newfoundland’s culture and weather). On the other hand, competition for spots in NL’s program might be less intense than in larger provinces. The investment threshold ($200k) and net worth ($600k) are in line with Atlantic Canada norms. As always, the risk is on the entrepreneur to successfully run the business for a year – a process that entails relocation and financial commitment with no guarantee of PR if they fail to meet requirements. Those who succeed and get nominated will become part of a province keen on newcomers. After PR, they need to reside in Canada to meet citizenship requirements; many who choose NL end up appreciating the lower cost of living and community feel, aiding in staying put for the requisite time.

Yukon: Business Nominee Program

Yukon, a northern territory, has the Yukon Business Nominee Program (YBNP) for entrepreneurs willing to invest in the Yukon economy:

• Net Worth & Liquid Assets: Minimum net worth of C$500,000, of which at least C$300,000 must be liquid (cash, bonds, etc.), all legally obtained and verified by a Yukon-certified accountant. Notably, Yukon requires a professional verification of finances as part of the application.
• Investment & Ownership: The applicant must commit to a minimum investment of C$300,000 into capital assets for the business within the first 2 years. They must own at least 33.3% of the business unless investing $1M+ (then a smaller share is allowed). The business must be a new start-up or purchase of an existing Yukon business. Certain sectors are prioritized: the venture must fall in Yukon's “strategic sectors” – e.g. information technology, manufacturing, value-added processing, forestry, tourism, energy, mining, agriculture, cultural industries, or film production. Many local services like restaurants, retail, real estate, and passive holding companies are explicitly ineligible, to ensure the program brings in businesses that diversify the economy.
• Experience: At least 3 years of entrepreneurial or business management experience AND 5 years of relevant work experience (the work experience can be in a field related to the proposed business).
• Education: Minimum of a high school diploma. If the business requires specific training or certification, the applicant must demonstrate they have it.
• Language: No specific CLB is stated as an upfront requirement, but Yukon uses a points grid where points are awarded for language. In practice, CLB 6 or higher is advisable. (The program website suggests sufficient communication skills to conduct business and integrate into the community are needed.)
• Process: The applicant submits an initial application with a detailed business plan. Yukon uses a points assessment (minimum 65 points needed) covering age, net worth, liquid assets, education, experience, language, and proposed business’s economic benefit. If approved, the applicant signs an agreement and is granted a 2-year work permit to establish the business in Yukon. They must reside in Yukon and actively manage the business. They are monitored, and if after 1–2 years they have met all terms (investment made, business operating in an approved sector, etc.), they can be nominated for PR.
• Legal Basis: As a territorial nominee program, it functions like PNP. The unique sector restrictions align with Yukon's economic development plans.
• Recent Updates: Yukon updated its program policy in 2020 to tighten criteria – notably adding the $300k liquid assets requirement in addition to net worth, and clearly listing ineligible sectors. The focus on strategic sectors is a newer emphasis to ensure the small number of entrepreneurs they accept have high impact.
• Limitations/Risks: Yukon's program is one of the more demanding in terms of specific experience and sector fit. The required investment ($300k) is relatively high when considering Yukon’s small market, and the need to operate in certain sectors means not every business idea will qualify. On top of that, life in the far North (with harsh winters and remoteness) is a significant adjustment. These factors result in fewer applicants, but those who do proceed are often adventurers or niche industry experts. The risk for the investor is the challenge of establishing a complex business (tech, manufacturing, etc.) in a small, remote economy within a short timeframe. Success can be very rewarding, as Yukon’s economy has opportunities in mining, tourism, and renewable energy, and the program’s design means accepted businesses have a good chance of viability. Once PR is obtained via Yukon nomination, the individual should ideally remain in Yukon or Canada to meet citizenship residency requirements (3 years). Given the commitment needed to succeed in Yukon, many likely do stay for the long haul.

Northwest Territories: Business Stream

The Northwest Territories (NWT) operates a Business Stream under the NTNP (Northwest Territories Nominee Program). It shares similarities with Yukon’s program, with different thresholds for the capital city vs. other communities:

• Net Worth: At least C$500,000 if the proposed business is in the city of Yellowknife (the NWT capital), or C$250,000 if outside Yellowknife. This must be proven with verifiable documentation of legal acquisition.
• Investment: Minimum investment of C$200,000 if the business will be in Yellowknife, or C$100,000 if in a smaller community outside Yellowknife. The applicant must personally invest these amounts (equity investment). They must also own at least 33.3% of the business, unless they invest at least C$1,000,000, in which case any ownership percentage is acceptable.
• Experience: Suitable business experience to execute the plan (no fixed year requirement, but a track record in business or management is expected). The applicant also must demonstrate a “reasonable knowledge” of NWT and its economy and intend to settle full-time in NWT.
• Language: Minimum CLB 4 in English or French. Language test results less than 2 years old must be provided.
• Other: The applicant must not have an active application in another PNP and cannot be a refugee claimant. They need to show they have sufficient funds to support themselves and any dependents while establishing the business. An exploratory visit is not mandatory but is recommended to demonstrate knowledge of the local market. As with Yukon, certain small-scale or passive businesses may be ineligible (NWT gives examples in its guidelines, e.g., property rental as primary business is typically not accepted).
• Process: The process involves submitting a detailed business plan to the NWT government. If the proposal is approved after evaluation and possibly an interview, the applicant signs a Business Performance Agreement and receives a letter of support for a work permit. They then have to operate the business in NWT for a certain period (usually at least 1 year) while meeting the investment and job creation targets. Throughout, they liaise with program officers. After fulfilling the terms, the NWT will issue a nomination certificate, allowing the applicant to apply for PR federally.
• Recent Updates: NWT last updated its investment thresholds some years ago and they remain as above. The program is small; NWT typically only approves a handful of business nominees each year, focusing on proposals that will meaningfully contribute to the local economy (like introducing new services to communities or value-added resource projects). There has been an emphasis on encouraging applications outside Yellowknife, which is reflected in the significantly lower investment and net worth requirements for outside the capital.
• Limitations/Risks: The NWT Business Stream’s tiered requirements make it more accessible if you invest in a rural community. However, doing business in remote Arctic communities comes with challenges (logistics, small markets). Yellowknife, while small (~20,000 people), is the economic center and has more opportunities but demands double the capital. The extreme climate and difficulty of hiring/retaining staff in remote areas can be risk factors for the business. The program explicitly requires the applicant to be ready and willing to settle full-time in the NWT – this is both a requirement and a reality check; success hinges on the immigrant’s commitment to living in the North. If those conditions are met and the business thrives, NWT offers a unique lifestyle and close-knit community. Once PR is gained, if the individual decides to move to another province, they legally can (there’s no condition on PR tying one to a province, just an intention requirement), but doing so too early could be seen as misrepresentation of intent. To obtain citizenship, the person will need to accumulate 3 years in Canada; time spent in NWT on a work permit can count half-time toward that (up to 1 year credit). Many entrepreneur nominees from NWT and Yukon often stay at least until citizenship due to the deep ties they form by running a business there.

Pathway from Permanent Residency to Citizenship

All the above programs result in permanent residency (either immediately, as in the Start-Up Visa, or after a period of conditional business operation for PNP/Quebec programs). Canadian citizenship is not automatic upon being a PR; one must meet the requirements under the Citizenship Act. The key requirement is physical presence: at least 1,095 days (3 years) of physical presence in Canada in the 5 years before applying for citizenship. Time spent in Canada on valid temporary status before becoming a PR can count for up to 365 of those days (at a 50% rate: 2 days temporary = 1 day credit). In practice, an investor who comes on a work permit and later gets PR could use up to one year of that pre-PR time toward the 3 years, needing at least 2 more years after PR to accumulate 1,095 days total. Other requirements for citizenship include filing Canadian income taxes for 3 years, passing a citizenship knowledge test and language test (for applicants aged 18–54), and not having prohibited criminal history.

Notably, Canada allows dual citizenship and does not require one to renounce prior citizenships. There is also no requirement to maintain an investment once you are a citizen – after naturalization, one has all the same rights as any Canadian-born citizen.

Conclusion and Key Considerations

In summary, Canada’s citizenship-by-investment pathways are indirect and require genuine commitment. At the federal level, the Start-Up Visa is the primary route, trading venture innovation for PR, and eventually citizenship, without requiring personal cash investment (but needing credible business support). Quebec offers the only true “investor” program (QIIP), but it demands significant wealth, French fluency, and residency in Quebec. All other provinces provide entrepreneur streams that necessitate starting a business and creating jobs in the province; these vary from the low-investment but hands-on (e.g., Atlantic provinces requiring ~$150k) to higher stakes in bigger markets (Ontario, B.C.) – see the table below for a comparison:

(Table: Summary of investment immigration pathways across Canada (2025). “Passive” indicates no active business management required. “12 mo. operation” means one year of business operation on a work permit is required before nomination.)

As illustrated, all routes except QIIP require “active” investment – i.e. establishing or running a business and often creating jobs. QIIP stands out as purely financial, but it has language and residency strings attached. The Start-Up Visa requires an innovative business with third-party backing. Prospective investors should carefully evaluate which pathway fits their profile (e.g., language ability, investment budget, desired location, business inclination). They should also be prepared for the possibility of a lengthy timeframe to actualize citizenship – typically at least 5 to 6 years from the initial investment to holding a Canadian passport, considering the time to get PR (which can be 1–5 years depending on the program) plus the 3-year residency requirement.

Legal and Financial Advice: Interested individuals should consult with Canadian immigration lawyers or licensed consultants, as well as financial advisors, to navigate these programs. Each program is governed by specific laws and regulations (e.g., IRPA/IRPR provisions for PNP, Quebec’s immigration law for QIIP, etc.), and criteria can change with little notice. Ensuring compliance with all conditions (from net worth verification to post-landing reporting) is crucial.

Recent Trends: As of 2025, Canada’s approach to investor immigration emphasizes economic benefit and integrity. The closure of Saskatchewan’s program in 2025 and the tightening of criteria (French language in QIIP, caps in Start-Up Visa) show an effort to ensure these pathways are aligned with Canada’s economic needs and regional goals. There is no sign of Canada introducing any “instant citizenship” program; instead, the existing channels require genuine contributions over time. The citizenship at the end of the road remains extremely valuable – granting the right to live and work anywhere in Canada, hold a Canadian passport, and access one of the world’s most stable economies and societies. For those willing to invest money, time, and effort, the programs described above represent the authorized avenues to achieve Canadian citizenship through investment in 2025.