What Is the Canada Investor Visa? Requirements and Application Steps
- Murat Koçak
- Aug 11
- 7 min read
With its strong economy, high standard of living, comprehensive social security system, and sustainable development policies, Canada offers a stable investment environment for entrepreneurs around the world. For investors who want to establish a business and build a secure life for their families, Canada offers not only economic opportunities but also a long-term path to permanent residency through its immigration system.
Especially for investors from Türkiye, Canada is not only a country of expanding business opportunities but also known for its free and high-quality education system, workforce participation opportunities for spouses, and universal access to social services. In this sense, Canada provides a strong foundation for both professional and personal growth through investment immigration.
If you are planning to start a new life in Canada as an investor, what awaits you is not only a financial commitment, but also a multidimensional transformation requiring social and cultural adaptation. Understanding Canada’s business regulations, immigration framework, language requirements, and regional differences across provinces is essential for a successful application.
In this guide, we will walk through the different ways to obtain permanent residency (PR) in Canada through investment, highlighting the step-by-step process and important details you need to know clearly, transparently, and with practical insights.
Immigration Options Through Investment in Canada
Canada is one of the few developed countries that grants permanent residence to individuals who can make a direct economic contribution. However, unlike in the past, it is no longer possible to passively obtain PR simply by investing a lump sum in the government. Today, Canada prioritizes individuals who will establish a business, create jobs, and contribute actively to the local economy.
Investor immigration applications are processed through two main pathways:
● Federal Programs: These include programs such as the Start-up Visa, which is designed to support technology-based and innovative ventures across all provinces.
● Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Each province operates its own entrepreneur streams based on its economic needs. Applicants are expected to settle in the province and actively manage their businesses.
Choosing the right program is the first and most critical step. At this stage, professional guidance can significantly influence the quality and success of your application.
Why Is Investing in Canada an Attractive Option?
There are several reasons why Canada is a top choice for investors:
● Healthcare and core public services are free.
● The business setup process is transparent, well-regulated, and supported by the government.
● Family members benefit from the same rights, with no need for separate applications for spouse or children.
● After obtaining PR, applicants can eventually apply for citizenship.
● A Canadian passport allows extensive visa-free travel.
At C&C Education, Visa, and Immigration in Canada, we have seen firsthand how our investor clients have successfully integrated into both the business world and Canadian society, including their eventual transition to citizenship.
Which Programs Are Suitable for Investors?
1. Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program
The SUV is a federal program designed specifically for individuals with innovative, scalable, and globally competitive business ideas. Applicants must obtain support from a designated organization authorized by the Canadian government. These include:
● Venture capital funds
● Angel investor groups
● Business incubators
Advantages:
● Direct path to permanent residency
● Family members can be included
● The right to live and work in any province in Canada
Important Note: SUV applicants must prove a minimum CLB 5 level of English or French via standardized language tests (e.g., IELTS or CELPIP). Additionally, processing times for this program can be lengthy, sometimes exceeding 30 months.
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) – Entrepreneur Streams
Each province offers its own entrepreneur stream tailored to its economic landscape.
Applicants are expected to:
● Reside in the province
● Invest a specified amount
● Actively manage their business
● Create local jobs
Examples:
● British Columbia: Minimum investment of 200,000 CAD + 600,000 CAD net worth
● Saskatchewan: Minimum investment of 200,000 CAD + 500,000 CAD net worth
● Ontario: Investment of 200,000–600,000 CAD, depending on the location
These programs typically involve two phases:
A temporary work permit is issued initially.
If the business is successfully operated, permanent residency may be granted.
3. Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP)
Quebec Yatırımcı Programı ile ilgili 2024 yılında önemli bir gelişme oldu. Dört yıllık aradan sonra program 1 Ocak 2024’te yeniden açıldı ve başvuru kabul etmeye başladı. Yeni QIIP koşulları yine “pasif yatırım” modeline dayanıyor: Adayın Quebec hükümeti aracılığıyla risksiz bir yatırımı 5 yıllığına yapması gerekiyor. Ancak yenilenen şartlar eskisine göre daha farklı ve sıkı: Net varlık minimumu 2 milyon CAD, yatırım tutarı 1 milyon CAD (5 yıllığına faizsiz borç olarak Quebec’e veriliyor) ve ayrıca geri iadesiz 200 bin CAD’lik bir finansal katkı (bağış) isteniyor. En çarpıcı fark ise, Quebec programının artık başvuranlardan B2 düzeyinde Fransızca dil yeterliliği şartı aramasıdır. Bu, 2024’te getirilen yeni bir kriter olup programı Fransızca bilenlerle sınırlamayı hedeflemektedir.
Investment Amounts and Eligible Sectors
The required investment varies significantly by program. Here's a general breakdown:
● PNP Programs: Range from 150,000 CAD to over 1 million CAD. Net worth requirements vary between 250,000–1.5 million CAD.
● Start-Up Visa: No mandatory investment, but applicants must secure support from an investor or business incubator.
Preferred Sectors Include:
● Health technology
● Food processing and agriculture
● Education and consultancy
● Logistics and e-commerce
● Software, mobile apps, artificial intelligence
● Clean energy and environmental technology
● Tourism and hospitality
● Beauty and wellness businesses
Regardless of the sector, your business plan must be profitable, sustainable, and aligned with Canada’s economic interests.
Application Process and Required Documents
Investor immigration is a multi-stage process that requires careful preparation. The typical steps are as follows:
1. Program Selection and Strategic Evaluation
The most suitable federal or provincial program is selected based on your profile.
2. Expression of Interest (EOI) and Business Plan Development
A detailed business plan is submitted, and the applicant is entered into the province’s scoring pool.
3. Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Eligible candidates receive an official invitation to apply.
4. Full Application Submission
Supporting documents are submitted, including financial statements, proof of experience, and due diligence paperwork.
5. Interview Stage
Authorities assess the viability of the business, the applicant’s financial capacity, and long-term commitment to Canada.
6. Issuance of Temporary Work Permit
If approved, a temporary permit is granted to launch the business.
7. Business Implementation and PR Application
Once the business has been successfully operated for a set period, the applicant becomes eligible to apply for permanent residence.
Required Documents:
● Detailed business plan
● Proof of net worth
● Source of funds documentation
● Language test results (IELTS/CELPIP)
● Educational and work experience records
Police clearance certificate
Rights After Investment and Citizenship Pathway
Obtaining Permanent Residence (PR) through investment grants both the main applicant and their family members access to a wide range of benefits:
● Free public healthcare
● Free primary and secondary education
● Local tuition rates at public universities
● Access to social services and pension programs
● Freedom to live and work anywhere in Canada
Those who reside in Canada for at least 1,095 days (approximately 3 years) within a 5-year period after obtaining PR become eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship. Dual citizenship with Türkiye is permitted.
Rights for Family Members
Spouses and unmarried children under the age of 22 included in the application receive PR status at the same time as the main applicant. Spouses are eligible for open work permits, and children can attend public schools making the process not only a business venture but also a comprehensive family resettlement plan.
Most Preferred Provinces and Sectors
Popular Provinces:
● Ontario & British Columbia: High competition, but great opportunities
● Alberta: Strong in energy, logistics, and mining
● Saskatchewan & Manitoba: Cost-effective options in agriculture, food processing, and manufacturing
● Atlantic Provinces (e.g., Nova Scotia, New Brunswick): Emerging ecosystems with supportive local policies
Popular Business Models Among Turkish Entrepreneurs:
● Restaurant and café chains
● Software and mobile tech startups
● Food import businesses
● Education and student consultancy
Logistics and transport
Investing in the Future with a Strategic Move
Immigrating to Canada through investment is more than an economic opportunity; it is a long-term investment in your quality of life. This process offers not only a pathway to business success, but also to health security, cultural diversity, and family well-being. From healthcare and education to work rights and citizenship, this journey represents a holistic life transformation.
However, given the complex nature of these programs including diverse eligibility criteria, document requirements, and regional priorities thorough planning and expert guidance are essential. Selecting the right program, presenting a strong business plan, and managing the process comprehensively are key factors that directly impact your success.
At C&C Education, Visa, and Immigration in Canada, we have been closely following Canada's investor immigration programs since 2008. We assist applicants in identifying the most strategic pathway tailored to their personal profiles and goals. From document preparation and program comparison to business plan development, our professional team supports clients through each step of the process.
If you’re considering a new life in Canada as an investor, we invite you to reach out to us for current information, personalized analysis, and a well-structured roadmap.
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