Active Business · BC PNP

BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration — Base Program

Start or acquire a business in British Columbia and gain a pathway to permanent residence through the BC Provincial Nominee Program.

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Vancouver waterfront and skyline in British Columbia.

CAD 200K+

Minimum Investment

CAD 200K+

Min. Investment

CAD 600K+

Net Worth (Base)

18–26 mo

Typical Timeline

3 yrs

Performance Agreement

Program Overview

Building a Business in Canada's Pacific Province

The BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration Base Program is managed by BC's Economic Immigration Programs (EIP). Candidates register an Expression of Interest (EOI) and are scored on business experience, net worth, investment amount, and proposed business type.

Successful candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and sign a Performance Agreement. After meeting performance milestones, BC nominates the applicant for federal permanent residence.

Key Advantage: BC prioritizes technology companies, clean energy, agri-tech, and innovation-sector businesses.

Base Stream at a glance:

One stream, available throughout BC
CAD 600K personal net worth, CAD 200K eligible personal investment
At least one new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

The Regional Stream is a separate program.

Eligibility Requirements

Net Worth

Minimum CAD 600,000 personal net worth, legally acquired and documented.

Business Experience

At least 3 years as an active business owner-manager, or 4 years as a senior manager, within the last 10 years. The program guide sets out alternatives, including an eligible post-secondary credential.

Investment & Jobs

Minimum CAD 200,000 eligible personal investment. Must create at least one new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

Investment & Fees

Cost Structure

Investment amounts are mandatory program requirements. Government fees are non-refundable administrative charges.

Item	Description	Amount (CAD)
Business Investment	Eligible personal investment into a BC business	CAD 200,000 min
BC PNP Application Fee	Non-refundable provincial fee	CAD 3,500
IRCC PR Application Fee	Federal PR application (per adult)	CAD 1,505
RPRF	Right of Permanent Residence Fee	CAD 515

Active Business · BC PNP

Start or acquire a business in British Columbia and gain a pathway to permanent residence through the BC Provincial Nominee Program.

CanadaRBI — Regional Business Immigration Platform

Application Process

BC Entrepreneur Base — Application Process

EOI Registration

Submit an Expression of Interest in the BC PNP online portal. Your profile is scored and ranked.

Invitation to Apply (ITA)

BC issues ITAs to top-scoring candidates. You have up to four months from the invitation to submit a complete application.

Application Review

BC evaluates your business plan, financial documentation, and experience.

Performance Agreement

BC signs a Performance Agreement specifying investment, job creation, and ownership requirements.

Entrepreneur Work Permit (EWP)

Apply for a work permit to legally operate in Canada while building your business.

Performance Verification

After 12–18 months, BC verifies investment made, employment created, business is active.

BC Nomination & Federal PR

BC nominates you. Apply to IRCC for permanent residence.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy an existing business?

Yes. Acquisition of an existing eligible BC business is permitted, provided you acquire at least 1/3 ownership.

Can my family come with me?

Yes. Spouses receive an open work permit; dependent children may study in BC.

What happens if my business fails?

BC assesses good-faith efforts. Individual review is possible in circumstances beyond applicant's control.

Ready to Explore British Columbia?

Connect with a licensed RCIC or immigration lawyer through our network to evaluate your eligibility and navigate the BC PNP Entrepreneur application.

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