THE SPECIFIC APPLICATION PROCESSES AND TIMELINES MAY VARY BY PROVINCE, BUT COMMON PROCEDURES FOR PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAMS (PNPS) ENTREPRENEUR STREAMS INCLUDE:

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Step 1 - Research and Selection

• Research various PNPs across different Canadian provinces to identify the one that aligns best with business goals, expertise, and personal preferences.

• Consider factors such as investment requirements, net worth thresholds, language proficiency, business experience, and specific industry focus of each PNP.

 

Step 2 - Preparing for Eligibility Assessment

• Gather all necessary documentation, including proof of net worth, business experience, educational qualifications, language proficiency test results, and a detailed business plan.

• Ensure that net assets and financial resources meet the minimum requirements set by the chosen PNP.

• An exploratory visit to the province of interest may be required.

 

Step 3 - Expression of Interest (EOI) or Application Submission

• Depending on the PNP, submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) or a similar formal application to the provincial government.

• Provide comprehensive details about the business proposal, including the nature of the business, intended investment amount, job creation plans, and how the venture will benefit the local economy.

• Candidates will be assigned a score and ranked against one another using the province's Entrepreneur Ranking System.

 

Step 4 - Invitation to Apply (ITA)

• If the EOI or application meets the program's criteria and is considered a good match for the province, the applicant will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the provincial government.

• The ITA will specify the next steps in the application process, including deadlines for submitting additional documentation and fulfilling program requirements.

• Candidates may be required to attend an interview.

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Step 5 - Letter of Support for Work Permits

• Most provinces authorize the candidate to come to Canada to implement their business plan before the final issuance of the provincial nomination as part of the PNP Entrepreneur Stream application assessment.

• A letter of support from the provincial government will be issued confirming the applicant's candidacy for provincial nomination and business establishment plans.

• The letter of support helps to strengthen temporary resident applications such as work permit, open work permit and study permits for spouse and dependent children.

• The applicant and their family must arrive in the province within 12 months of getting the temporary resident permits.

 

Step 6 - Arrival in Canada to Establish the Business

• Upon arriving in Canada, the business must be established or purchased in the province according to the terms outlined in the application.

• This may involve registering the business, obtaining necessary permits or licenses, leasing or purchasing commercial space, and hiring employees as required.

• Approved applicants must sign a performance agreement with the province, which outlines the terms and conditions of their nomination.

• Applicants have a certain period (e.g., 20 months or 610 days) to implement their business proposal.

 

Step 7 - Business Performance Monitoring

• Some PNPs may require the fulfillment of certain commitments related to the business, such as creating jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents, maintaining a certain level of revenue, or investing additional capital.

• Compliance with these requirements may be monitored periodically by the provincial government to ensure genuine ongoing contribution to the local economy.

 

Step 8 - Provincial Nomination

• After successfully establishing the business and meeting all program requirements, the province will nominate the applicant for permanent residency through their PNP Entrepreneur Stream.

• The nomination certificate demonstrates the province's endorsement of the business venture and its contribution to the local economy.

 

Step 9 - Permanent Residency Application

• With the provincial nomination, the applicant can now apply for permanent residency with the federal government through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

• Submit additional documentation, undergo medical examinations, and complete security background checks as part of the permanent residency application process.

 

Step 10 - Citizenship Application

• After meeting the residency requirements as a permanent resident, the applicant may choose to apply for Canadian citizenship.

• Citizenship offers additional benefits, including the right to vote, hold a Canadian passport, and access certain government services reserved for citizens​.