The British Columbia Entrepreneur Program comprises three categories:

   – Entrepreneur Immigration

   – Regional Pilot category

   – Strategic Projects category

The Entrepreneur Immigration Stream is designed for international entrepreneurs looking to establish a new business in British Columbia. The nomination process for this stream is points-based, similar to the Express Entry system.

To meet the eligibility requirements for this category, you must fulfill the following criteria:

– Have a minimum personal net worth of 600,000 USD acquired through legitimate means.

– Commit to investing at least 200,000 USD in a new or existing business in British Columbia that meets specified criteria.

– Demonstrate the ability to create at least one new full-time job opportunity for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

– Achieve a Level 4 proficiency in English and/or French in all four language categories: reading, speaking, listening, and writing (CLB Level 4).

– Possess prior work experience in management and/or business.

– Either legally reside in Canada temporarily or be eligible to apply for temporary immigration status.

The Regional Pilot Stream is designed for investors interested in establishing a new business in the regional areas of the province. To qualify for this stream, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

– Have a minimum net worth of at least 300,000 CAD, with at least 100,000 CAD designated for investment in a business.

– Maintain at least 51 percent ownership in the company established in the province.

– Demonstrate a Level 4 proficiency in English and/or French for each language category (CLB Level 4).

– Commit to employing at least one Canadian citizen or permanent resident within the business.

The Strategic Projects Stream allows foreign-based companies to establish a branch of their operations in the province of British Columbia. Under this scheme, up to five foreign professionals working for the business can be nominated for permanent residency in the province.

To qualify for this category, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

– Make an equity investment of 50,000 CAD.

– Commit to creating three new positions for permanent residents and citizens for each foreign staff member employed.

– Have the capacity to start a new business independently or acquire an existing one and expand its operations.

To apply for any of the above programs under the Entrepreneur stream, you will need to provide the following documents:

– Proof of sufficient funds

– Evidence of business and management experience

– Documentation confirming current or eligibility for immigration to Canada

– Passport including personal ID page and visa stamps

– Academic transcripts for all qualifications

Follow these steps to apply for the Entrepreneurs Program:

1. Ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements for the category you are applying to.
2. Prepare all required documents.
3. Register online for application through the appropriate website.
4. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) if you meet the required score.
5. Upon receiving the ITA, submit your final application along with your business plan.
6. Undergo an assessment process, which may include an in-person interview.
7. If approved, sign a performance agreement and obtain a work permit.
8. Establish your place of residence within 100 km of the business location.
9. Manage the local business for a minimum of 18 to 20 months.
10. Submit your final report.
11. Await confirmation of your nomination.
12. Apply for permanent residence status for yourself and your family members.

The eligibility criteria vary for each category within the Entrepreneurs Program, as outlined above. However, these criteria are subject to change. Therefore, we recommend reaching out to our Canadian immigration experts for precise details on the current requirements.

The processing time for the British Columbia PNP varies depending on the category you are applying for and your individual profile. For detailed information on applying to the program and processing times, we recommend consulting our Canadian immigration consultants.