The Canada Business People Visa: Application Process

Canada is one of the most business-friendly countries in the world. With a strong economy and a highly skilled workforce, entrepreneurs and businesspeople from around the globe are attracted to Canada’s favorable business climate. If you are interested in establishing or expanding your business in Canada, the Canada Business People Visa is the perfect pathway to achieve your goals.

The Canada Business People Visa is a permanent residency visa for individuals who wish to establish or actively manage a business in Canada. This visa is granted to applicants who meet the criteria and have a business experience, financial history, and a genuine desire to start or expand a business in Canada.

The application process for the Canada Business People Visa is straightforward and relatively simple. In this article, we will outline the steps you need to take to successfully apply for the Canada Business People Visa.

Eligibility Criteria for Canada Business People Visa

Before you apply for the Canada Business People Visa, you must first make sure that you meet the eligibility criteria. To be eligible, you must:

• Have at least two years of relevant business experience
• Have a personal net worth of at least CAD 300,000 from legal sources
• Be able to prove that you will invest at least CAD 200,000 into the business
• Show that you have a genuine intention to establish or manage a business in Canada
• Score at least 35 points on the Business Immigration Self-Assessment
• Provide evidence that you meet the language proficiency requirements of the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

Application Process for Canada Business People Visa

Once you are confident that you meet the eligibility criteria, you can begin the application process for the Canada Business People Visa. The application process is as follows:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

The first step is to gather all the required documents. These include:

• A valid passport or travel document
• Two passport-sized photographs
• Evidence that you meet the eligibility criteria
• Evidence of your language proficiency
• A detailed business plan outlining your proposed business activities, including information on investment, staffing, and projected income
• Evidence of your prior business experience
• Evidence of your personal net worth

Step 2: Complete and Submit an Expression of Interest

The second step is to complete and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the IRCC’s online system. The EOI is an electronic form that collects basic information about you, your proposed business, and your ability to meet the eligibility requirements.

Step 3: Invitation to Apply

Once the IRCC receives your EOI, they will evaluate it against the eligibility criteria. If you are selected, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). The ITA will provide instructions on how to submit a complete application for the Canada Business People Visa.

Step 4: Submit Complete Application

After you receive an ITA, you must submit a complete application within 90 days. Your application must include all the required documents, including your business plan and financial documents.

Step 5: Medical and Background Checks

Once your application is submitted, the IRCC will conduct medical and background checks. The medical exam must be conducted by a panel physician approved by the IRCC. The background checks will verify your criminal record, and any other relevant information.

Step 6: Permanent Resident Visa Issued

If your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a Permanent Resident (PR) visa. You must present these documents to the immigration officer upon arrival in Canada.

FAQs

Q: Can I apply for the Canada Business People Visa if I have not yet established a business in Canada?

A: Yes, you can apply for the Canada Business People Visa if you have not yet established a business in Canada. However, you must submit a detailed business plan outlining your proposed business activities, including information on investment, staffing, and projected income.

Q: Is there a limit on the number of Canada Business People Visas that are issued each year?

A: No, there is no limit on the number of Canada Business People Visas that are issued each year. However, there is a limit on the number of people who can apply through the Entrepreneur Start-Up Visa program.

Q: Can I include my spouse and children in my Canada Business People Visa application?

A: Yes, you can include your spouse and children in your Canada Business People Visa application. However, they must also meet the eligibility requirements and must be included in your business plan.

Q: How long does the Canada Business People Visa application process take?

A: The Canada Business People Visa application process takes an average of 12 to 16 months from start to finish. However, the processing time may vary based on the volume of applications received and the complexity of the case.

Q: Can I apply for the Canada Business People Visa from within Canada?

A: No, you must apply for the Canada Business People Visa from outside Canada. However, if you are already in Canada on a temporary visa, you may be able to apply for permanent residency from within Canada through the Economic Class program.

Q: Can I sell my business after I get the Canada Business People Visa?

A: Yes, you can sell your business after you get the Canada Business People Visa. However, you must continue to meet the eligibility requirements, including the requirement to actively manage the business.

In conclusion, the Canada Business People Visa is an excellent option for entrepreneurs and businesspeople who want to start or expand their businesses in Canada. By following the steps outlined in this article and ensuring that you meet the eligibility criteria, you can successfully apply for the Canada Business People Visa and achieve your entrepreneurial goals in Canada.