Who the Business Immigration is for
#- Entrepreneurs or investors considering provincial business programs
- Applicants with business ownership or management experience
- Candidates prepared to meet investment and settlement criteria
Eligibility nuances
#Eligibility varies by program and province, with different investment and experience thresholds.
Applicants must meet admissibility requirements and show business intent.
Official IRCC guidance to review
#Use the official IRCC guidance before applying for a Canada visa or permit.
Canada visa requirements checklist
#- Business experience or management background
- Investment funds or financial capacity for the program
- Admissibility checks including biometrics and medical exams
- Program-specific business plan or proposal
Documents and evidence (IRCC checklist)
#- Business ownership or management evidence
- Financial statements and proof of funds
- Business plan and investment documentation
- Identity and admissibility documents
Comparing options? Review Start-up Visa and Self-Employed Persons Program before you finalize your Canada visa pathway.
Canada documents checklistCanada visa application steps
#- Identify the appropriate business immigration program.
- Prepare business and financial documentation.
- Submit application with required business plan evidence.
- Complete biometrics, medicals, and follow-up requests.
If this pathway doesn’t fit, compare Start-up Visa and Self-Employed Persons Program before you finalize your plan.
Canada processing times
#Processing times depend on program, country of residence, and application completeness. Processing times vary widely by program and province.
IRCC processing times toolCommon mistakes that cause delays
#- Applying without meeting investment thresholds
- Weak or incomplete business plans
- Underestimating provincial program requirements
Common misconceptions
#- Business immigration is the same as Start-up Visa.
- Any investment guarantees approval.
- Federal programs cover all business pathways.
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
Is Start-up Visa the only business program?
No. Many provinces have separate entrepreneur or investor programs with their own criteria.
Do business programs require a job offer?
Most business programs focus on investment or ownership rather than job offers.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-30
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
Find my visa