Entrepreneur Immigration – BC 2025 Guide
British Columbia’s Entrepreneur Immigration stream is a “temporary to permanent” pathway for international entrepreneurs wishing to set up, acquire or grow businesses that drive innovation and economic growth in the province. Through three streams—Base, Regional and Strategic Projects—it offers a clear, points-based EOI (Expression of Interest) system. Candidates register their business concept, earn an invitation to apply, secure a work permit and then implement their venture under a tailored performance agreement. After meeting agreed milestones, they receive a provincial nomination to apply for permanent residence. This guide covers eligibility, the application process, fees, timelines and common questions for 2025
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Atlantic Immigration Program, applicants must meet specific criteria
Base Stream
Personal net worth ≥ CAD 600,000.
Business or management experience (or 2-year post-secondary diploma).
CLB 4 (or NCLC 4) language proficiency.
Eligible new business or purchase & improvement of an existing business.
Minimum personal investment of CAD 200,000.
Create ≥ 1 new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or PR
Regional Stream
Personal net worth ≥ CAD 300,000.
CLB 4 language proficiency.
Establish a new business aligned with a participating community’s priorities.
Minimum personal investment of CAD 100,000.
Create ≥ 1 new full-time job
Strategic Projects
For foreign corporations making high-value investments.
Equity investment ≥ CAD 500,000.
Creation of new full-time jobs commensurate with key staff proposed
How Does the Application Process Work?
1. Prepare Your Business Concept
Research market fit, community priorities and draft a concise proposal
2. Register Your EOI
Create a profile in BCPNP Online, submit your concept and pay the CAD 300 registration fee.
3. Earn an Invitation to Apply
Business concepts are scored; concept results within 6 weeks, and EOI remains in the pool for up to 180 days
4. Net Worth Verification
After invitation, an authorized accounting firm reviews and verifies your personal net worth before you apply.
5. Submit Full Application
Within 4 months of invitation, upload your net worth report, business plan, proof of experience, language test results and pay the CAD 3,500 application fee
6. Sign Performance Agreement
If approved, sign a customized agreement outlining investment, job-creation and operational milestones.
7. Obtain Work Permit
Use your letter of support to apply to IRCC; you have 90 days to secure your permit and arrive in B.C.
8. Implement & Report
Arrive and actively manage your business for up to 20 months, submitting a Start-Up Report, Progress Reports every six months and a Final Report between 18–20 months
9. Receive Nomination & Apply for PR
After meeting your performance agreement, sign the Conditions of Nomination and apply to IRCC for permanent residence.
Application Fee and Processing Time
Registration fee: CAD 300 (non-refundable)
Application fee: CAD 3,500 (non-refundable)
Concept scoring: within 6 weeks
EOI pool duration: up to 180 days
Invitation validity: 4 months to submit full application
Business implementation: up to 20 months under performance agreement
IRCC PR processing: IRCC aims to process 80 % of PNP PR applications in 6 months
Required Documents
- Valid Passport
- Education Credential Assessment
- Language Test Results
- Proof of Work Experience
- Endorsement Certificate From an Atlantic Province
- Proof of Settlement Funds
Official Application Page
For detailed information and to start your application process, visit the official;
🔗 Entrepreneur Immigration – WelcomeBC welcomebc.ca
🔗 Base Program Guide (PDF) welcomebc.ca
🔗 Regional Program Guide (PDF) welcomebc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Entrepreneur Immigration – BC?
A BC PNP “temporary to permanent” pathway for entrepreneurs to establish or grow businesses in B.C.
How much must I invest?
– Base Stream: CAD 200,000.
– Regional Stream: CAD 100,000.
Can I buy an existing business?
Yes—Base candidates may purchase and improve an existing business to meet requirements
What language scores are needed?
CLB 4 (or NCLC 4) in English or French, proven by an approved test
How long until I get invited?
Your concept is scored within 6 weeks; invitations come from the pool over the following 180 days
Is prior Canadian experience required?
No—experience can be demonstrated through prior business ownership or equivalent post-secondary credentials
