Regional Investment · BC PNP

BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration — Regional Stream

Establish your business outside Metro Vancouver and access BC residency with lower investment thresholds and priority processing.

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Moraine Lake and mountain peaks in the Canadian Rockies.

CAD 100K

Minimum Investment

CAD 100K

Min. Investment

CAD 300K+

Net Worth

15–22 mo

Typical Timeline

1 FTE

Jobs Required

Program Overview

Lower Thresholds, Faster Processing Outside Metro Vancouver

The BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration Regional Stream supports entrepreneurs who start a business in a community currently participating in the stream. Candidates must engage the community and receive a community referral before they can register.

With reduced net worth and investment thresholds, the Regional Stream is accessible to a wider range of experienced business owners. The requirement to create local employment promotes community integration.

Key Advantage: Each participating community identifies its own priority sectors, so the business can be matched to local economic needs.

Participating communities:

Only communities currently participating in the Regional Stream can refer candidates
The list changes over time; see the current list on WelcomeBC
A community referral is required before registration

Eligibility Requirements

Regional Stream Eligibility

Net Worth

Minimum CAD 300,000 personal net worth, legally acquired, and a minimum CAD 100,000 eligible investment.

Business Experience

At least 3 years as an active business owner-manager within the last 5 years. Senior-manager experience is assessed under separate criteria in the program guide.

Location & Jobs

At least 51% ownership of a new business in the referring participating community. Must create at least one new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

Investment & Fees

Cost Structure

Investment is directed into your BC business. Government fees are administrative and non-refundable.

Item	Description	Amount (CAD)
Business Investment (Regional)	Eligible investment in a business in a participating community	CAD 100,000 min
BC PNP Application Fee	Non-refundable provincial fee	CAD 3,500
IRCC PR Application Fee	Federal PR (per adult applicant)	CAD 1,505
RPRF	Right of Permanent Residence Fee	CAD 515

Regional Investment · BC PNP

Establish your business outside Metro Vancouver and access BC residency with lower investment thresholds and priority processing.

CanadaRBI — Regional Business Immigration Platform

Application Process

Regional Stream Application Path

Community Selection & Exploratory Visit

Choose a participating BC community and complete an exploratory visit to engage with it.

Community Referral

The community reviews your business proposal and, if it supports it, refers you to the BC PNP.

Registration (EOI)

Invitation & Full Application

Invited candidates have up to four months from the invitation to submit a complete application.

Performance Agreement

BC issues a Performance Agreement specifying investment, jobs, and location requirements.

Entrepreneur Work Permit

Apply for a work permit to begin business operations under the Performance Agreement.

Performance Verification & Nomination

After proving business milestones, BC nominates you for federal PR.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I later move my business to Vancouver?

No. The Performance Agreement requires the business to remain in the eligible regional community.

What types of businesses are eligible?

Most active businesses serving the local community: retail, hospitality, construction, professional services, childcare.

How is the Regional Stream different from the Base Stream?

The Regional Stream is a separate program with lower thresholds. Participation depends on the communities currently in the program and on a community referral.

Do I need to live in the regional community?

You must actively manage the business, which typically requires residing in or near the community.

Ready to Explore British Columbia (Regional)?

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

Schedule a Consultation