WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Although the Quebec Entrepreneur Program is a pathway brimming with opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to establish roots in Quebec, the program has an annual cap on applications. Upon successful acceptance into the program, applicants are granted a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), marking a significant milestone in their journey towards permanent residency. With the CSQ in hand, entrepreneurs can proceed to the next phase of their immigration process: applying for permanent residence with the federal government.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS

• Education: Quebec secondary (high) school diploma or its equivalent.

• French Proficiency: spoken French level 7 of the Quebec language scale +.

• Financial Self-Sufficiency: funds for essential needs at least three months after obtaining permanent resident status, for the whole family.

• Ineligible Sectors: some business activities in specific sectors are prohibited, including payday loans, pornography, and property trading.

• Attestation of Learning of Democratic and Québec Values: required for all family members over 18 years old.

STREAM-SPECIFIC CRITERIA

STREAM 1 - INNOVATIVE START-UP PROFILE

• Business Plan: the business plan must include all components outlined in the provided guide from the Quebec government.

• Business Partners: sole owner or with up to three co-applicants.

• Capital Contribution to the Business: initial capital contribution must be at least 10%.

• Support from a Specialized Organization: an innovation-focused organization commits to supporting your business project.

STREAM 1 – NEW INNOVATIVE PROJECT WITHIN EXISTING COMPANY PROFILE

• Stay in Quebec: must have lived in Québec for at least two years with authorization to work in Québec.

• Business Plan: the business plan must include all components outlined in the provided guide from the Quebec government.

• Business Partners: sole owner or with up to three co-applicants.

• Capital Contribution to the Business: initial capital contribution must be at least 10%.

• Support from a Specialized Organization: an innovation-focused organization commits to supporting your business project.

STREAM 2 - BUSINESS START-UP PROFILE

• Investment Amount: minimum CDN$300,000 in the Montréal Metropolitan Area, and at least CDN$150,000 if outside of MMA.

• Management Experience: at least 2 years of business management experience in the last 5 years.

• Net Worth: at least CAD $600,000.

• Business Plan: the business plan must include all components outlined in the provided guide from the Quebec government.

• Business Partners: sole owner or with up to three co-applicants.

• Québec Notice of Intention to Select: if pre-selected, the applicant will receive a notice of intent to be selected from the Government of Québec, allowing them to apply for a Canadian work permit to start the business process in Québec. Accompanying family members can also apply for respective authorizations.

• Start-Up Time Frame: the applicant must start a business within two years of receiving the work permit.

• Capital Contribution to the Business: contribution to the business's original capital must be at least 25%, if, with partners, each must have at least a 25% equity stake.

STREAM 2 - EXISTING START-UP OPERATIONAL COMPANY PROFILE

• Stay in Québec: must have been living in Québec for at least two years with authorization to work or study. Existing start-up company in Quebec implemented by the applicant must have been running for at least one year.

• Business Plan: the business plan must include all components outlined in the provided guide from the Quebec government.

• Net Worth: at least CAD $300,000.

• Business Partners: sole owner or with up to three co-applicants.

• Original Capital Contribution to the Business: contribution to the business's original capital must be at least 25%, if, with partners, each must have at least a 25% equity stake.

STREAM 3 - NEW BUSINESS ACQUISITION PROFILE

• Net Worth: at least CAD $600,000 legally acquired, source of funds verification applicable.

• Investment Amount: minimum CDN$300,000 in the Montréal Metropolitan Area, and at least CDN$150,000 if outside MMA.

• Business Partners: should take over a business independently or with an accompanying spouse or common-law partner. While business partners are allowed, they cannot apply for permanent selection as entrepreneurs.

• Control of the Business: applicants must acquire and maintain 100% control of the business, business partners are allowed, but they cannot be controlling shareholders.

• Support from a Specialized Organization: have the guidance of an organization specialized in business takeovers throughout the transfer process, providing support services such as training, mentoring, and business transfer brokerage.

• Succession Plan: a takeover plan outlining the business project based on le Plan de relève document guide must be included in the application.

• Takeover Bid: within two years of application submission, a takeover bid in line with the succession plan and service offer must be initiated. Planned expenditures for the acquisition must also be demonstrated.

STREAM 3 - ALREADY ACQUIRED BUSINESS PROFILE

This business cannot have been acquired by individuals selected under the Entrepreneur Program in the five years before the application, nor by a group where the controlling individual was selected under the Entrepreneur Program.

• Stay in Québec: must have been living in Québec for at least two years with authorization to work or study.

• Net Worth: CAD $300,000 legally acquired, source of funds verification applicable

• Business Partners: must have taken over a business without business partners or with an accompanying spouse or common-law partner. While business partners are allowed, they cannot apply for permanent selection as entrepreneurs.

• Control of the Business: applicants must have acquired and maintain 100% control of the business, business partners are allowed, but they cannot be controlling shareholders.

• Support from a Specialized Organization: must have received guidance from an organization specialized in business takeovers throughout the transfer process, providing support services such as training, mentoring, and business transfer brokerage.

• Succession Plan: a takeover plan outlining the business project based on le Plan de relève document guide must be included in the application.

WHAT WE CAN DO

The Quebec Entrepreneur Program offers a unique opportunity for experienced business owners to establish themselves in Canada while contributing to the province's economic growth. Allumé Immigration has a deep understanding of the program and remains abreast of its ever-evolving regulations and policies. With our expertise and strong local connections in the Quebec business community, we can help you navigate the program's requirements and succeed.

Our strategic guidance will enable you to establish your business and secure a bright future for yourself and your family in la belle province. Book a consultation today and let us be your trusted partner in achieving your entrepreneurial dreams in Quebec.