Investment Immigration to Canada

Investment Immigration to Canada is a program that attracts many entrepreneurs. The program offers the opportunity to obtain permanent residency and develop a career in one of the most livable countries in the world. This immigration pathway has a quick process, flexible requirements, and a relatively low investment amount. In this article, Phan Immigration will provide detailed information about the requirements, procedures, as well as the pros and cons of the Canada investment immigration program. Let’s explore this with Phan Immigration in the article below!

What is Investment Immigration to Canada?

Investment Immigration to Canada is an immigration program designed for entrepreneurs, investors, or senior managers with business experience and financial capacity. Participants who invest in Canada will have the opportunity to receive permanent residency (PR) and live legally with their families.

Depending on the immigration goals and financial capacity, investors can choose to participate in federal or provincial investment immigration programs:

• At the federal level, the prominent program is the Canada Start-Up Visa, designed for entrepreneurs with innovative ideas and global potential. In addition to the Start-Up Visa, you can also consider provincial nominee programs, where each province has its own requirements and benefits for investors.
• Provincial entrepreneur programs such as those in Ontario, BC, Alberta, and PEI require investment, business operations, and the fulfillment of financial and experience conditions specific to each region.

Although the specific requirements differ, all programs aim to attract international entrepreneurs, create jobs, and promote economic growth in Canada. This is a legal pathway for investors and their families to settle long-term and eventually pursue Canadian citizenship.

Reasons to Choose the Investment Pathway for Canada Immigration

Canada Investment Immigration offers the opportunity to expand international business, along with exceptional benefits in education, healthcare, and quality of life for the entire family. It is the ideal path for entrepreneurs aiming for a sustainable future.

Moderate Investment Amount for Business Projects

One of the key advantages of the Canada investment immigration program is the reasonable investment amount required. The investment capital to participate in the Canadian entrepreneur immigration program is significantly lower compared to the U.S. In the U.S., the minimum requirement is to invest $900,000 USD (~22,680,000,000 VND) into a business project.

In contrast, the necessary investment in some provinces in Canada is only around 100,000 CAD – 300,000 CAD (~5,275,263,000 VND – ~5,398,042,039 VND), depending on the requirements of the federal government or individual provinces. Thanks to this lower investment requirement, Canada has become an attractive option for investors.

Shortened Citizenship Timeline

A major advantage of participating in the Canada investment immigration program is the shortened citizenship timeline compared to many other countries like Australia and the U.S. In Australia, applicants need about 4 years to obtain permanent residency, while the green card process in the U.S. typically takes 5 to 7 years, creating a significant time difference between the two countries.

Additionally, in Canada, applicants only need to complete 3 years of continuous residence to be eligible for citizenship. By meeting this requirement, investors and their families can quickly become Canadian citizens and enjoy all the benefits of full citizenship.

Low Corporate Tax Costs

Canada is known for its competitive corporate tax rates among G7 countries. The total corporate tax costs in Canada are among the lowest in this group and are even 46% lower than in the U.S. This favorable and reasonable tax policy creates a conducive environment for foreign businesses, helping them save costs and grow sustainably in Canada.

Additionally, Canada offers tax incentive programs for businesses, particularly for newly established companies and those in high-tech sectors. These policies help alleviate financial burdens for investors, creating a favorable environment for business development and profit optimization.

Specific Benefits for Investors and Their Families When Immigrating to Canada

By participating in the Canada investment immigration program, applicants and their families will receive many attractive benefits, including:

• All family members can become permanent residents of Canada.
• Access to healthcare benefits equivalent to those of Canadian citizens.
• Children of permanent residents can receive tuition exemptions or reductions, as well as scholarships, just like Canadian citizens.
• The freedom to travel and live in any province of Canada.
• The right to own property, real estate, and other assets as Canadian citizens.
• The ability to start a business and access many job opportunities in Canadian provinces.
• Full social welfare benefits.

General Requirements for Investment Immigration to Canada

The general requirements for participating in the Canada investment immigration program include:

• Age: Typically under 65 years old. Some programs prioritize individuals between the ages of 22 and 55.
• Education: At least 1 year of post-secondary education. Many programs require a university degree.
• Experience: A minimum of 3 years of business management experience or holding a senior management position in the last 5-10 years. If the applicant is a business owner, they must own at least 10% of the company.
• Finances: Personal assets ranging from 500,000 to 1,600,000 CAD. The investment amount ranges from 100,000 to 1,000,000 CAD depending on the program. Some programs may require non-refundable contributions or passive investments through financial institutions.
• Language: IELTS score of 4.0–5.0 (CLB 4–5), which may be higher depending on the program.
• Health & Background: No serious medical conditions, no criminal record, and compliance with Canada’s security and health requirements.
• Others: A viable business plan that creates jobs for local citizens (at least 1–2 positions), and possibly the need for sponsorship from a designated organization (for Start-Up Visa).

Federal Canada Investment Immigration Program

The Federal Canada Investment Immigration Program is one of the most attractive options for entrepreneurs and investors who want to settle in Canada. This program allows investors and their families to obtain permanent residency through investment in businesses in Canada. Applicants participating in this program can establish, invest in, or operate a business in any province or territory of Canada, without the geographical limitations seen in provincial investment programs.

Canada Start-Up Visa Program (SUV)

The Canada Start-Up Visa Program (SUV) is a gateway for international investors to realize their entrepreneurial dreams in North America. The Start-Up Visa program is designed for entrepreneurs with unique, innovative business ideas that are approved by the Canadian government. Below is detailed information about the Start-Up Visa that you can refer to:

Criteria	Information
Processing Time	40 months
Conditions	Must have a qualifying business or innovative idea Receive a letter of support from a designated organization in Canada Meet language requirements (CLB 5 = IELTS General 5.0) Ability to support yourself and your family in Canada
Advantages	Opportunity for permanent residency for the whole family while still in Vietnam Business operations in any field in Canada No requirement to verify the applicant’s net worth Work permit granted for 3 years in Canada Opportunity to apply for Canadian citizenship once conditions are met
Advantages	High competition to obtain support letters from designated organizations in Canada

Canada Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Immigration Program

The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program is not a direct permanent residency (PR) program. However, it is an ideal option for international businesses looking to expand operations by establishing a subsidiary or branch in Canada. This program is managed by the Canadian government at the federal level, allowing business owners and senior executives to transfer to work at their Canadian branch or subsidiary, while supporting the growth of the business in the North American market.

Criteria	Information
Investment Amount	From 100,000 CAD (~1,758,421,000 VND)
Processing Time	3 – 4 months
Conditions	Business in Vietnam: Must be stable and operational currently Must be established for at least one year; longer-established businesses have stronger profiles Must have a legal business license and pay taxes in full Must have a close relationship with the business in Vietnam Must have a clear business plan and strategy when opening a branch in Canada Must ensure at least one active employee Minimum capital of 100,000 CAD (~1,742,500,000 VND) to operate the business Must have worked full-time in a senior management role at the business abroad for at least 12 months in the last 3 years Must continue holding the same position in the new business in Canada Business in Canada: Must have a close relationship with the business in Vietnam Must have a clear business plan and strategy when opening a branch in Canada Must ensure at least one active employ Minimum capital of 100,000 CAD (~1,742,500,000 VND) to operate the business Investor: Must have worked full-time in a senior management role at the business abroad for at least 12 months in the last 3 years Must continue holding the same position in the new business in Canada
Advantages	No minimum investment required No need to prove financial status No need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Spouse and dependent children can apply and are allowed to work and study in Canada Fast work permit processing time, only 3 – 4 months after application Initial work permit is valid for 1 year and can be extended for up to 7 years Can apply for permanent residency (PR) through various federal or provincial programs
Disadvantages	Requires applicants to have management experience Business in Canada must prove actual business operations, ensuring profitability and compliance with local laws Initial work permit is valid for only 1 year, requiring continuous renewal and proof that the business is still operating effectively

Significant Benefit Program (C11) Immigration

The Significant Benefit Program (C11) is a pathway for obtaining a work permit that allows individuals and entrepreneurs to run their businesses freely in Canada (excluding Quebec). To participate, applicants must demonstrate that their business activities will bring significant economic, social, or cultural benefits to Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

The C11 Significant Benefit Program is divided into three main categories:

1. Economic – Business: For entrepreneurs who wish to establish or acquire a business in Canada, create jobs, and boost local industries.
2. Social – Athletes and individuals in sports: For athletes, coaches, referees, and leaders in the entertainment, sports, and fitness industries.
3. Cultural – Individuals with unique skills participating in cultural activities: Includes authors, writers, creative and performing artists, musicians, dancers, actors, painters, photographers, sculptors, creative designers, editors, journalists, and translators.

Criteria	Information
Investment Amount	No minimum investment required. However, applicants need to have sufficient financial resources to invest in activities in Canada (from 72,190 CAD ~ 1,258,029,141.60 VND).
Processing Time	2 – 3 months
Conditions	At least 2 years of relevant experience in business ownership, cultural, sports, or social activities. Intention to run a business in Canada with at least 50% ownership in the Canadian company. Sufficient financial resources to invest in activities in Canada (from 72,190 CAD ~ 1,258,029,141.60 VND). The business activity is expected to bring significant economic, social, or cultural benefits to Canadians.
Advantages	No minimum investment required. No restrictions on the location of the business or residence within Canada. Family members of the business owner can enjoy free healthcare and education benefits. Simple and easy financial proof requirements. Can apply for permanent residency (PR) for the whole family from Vietnam (for Cultural, Arts, and Social categories).
Disadvantages	Applicants must prove that their business will bring significant benefits to Canada, requiring a detailed and feasible business plan. Must have relevant experience and skills in the planned business area in Canada. Processing time may vary depending on the current immigration situation and policies.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Canada Investment Immigration

In addition to the federal investment immigration programs, each province in Canada also has its own distinct investment programs to attract foreign investors and entrepreneurs. Below are some of the Provincial Investment Programs in Canada that you can refer to:

Alberta Investment Immigration Program

The Alberta Investment Immigration Program is designed for applicants with experience in agriculture who have sufficient capital to purchase and operate a farm in Alberta. After establishing and maintaining farm operations for 1-2 years, applicants and their families will be eligible to apply for permanent residency (PR) in Canada.

Criteria	Information
Investment Amount	Minimum of 100,000 CAD (~1,781,200,000 VND)
Processing Time	12 – 24 months
Conditions	Propose a feasible business plan for Alberta. Demonstrate experience and capability in farm management. Provide financial support from a financial institution in Canada. Prepare a work plan related to the farm for the upcoming period.
Advantages	Opportunity to receive a provincial nomination from Alberta and then apply for permanent residency directly from abroad. Suitable for applicants with experience in agriculture.
Disadvantages	High investment requirements. Only for applicants with farm management experience. The business plan will be closely scrutinized by the Alberta authorities. Residency is limited to the province of Alberta.

Saskatchewan Investment Immigration Program (Closed Permanently)

The Saskatchewan Immigration Nominee Program (SINP) provided an opportunity for foreign investors to settle in the province through investment in businesses. After meeting investment and business operation requirements for a specific period, investors could apply for permanent residency (PR) for their families.

The Saskatchewan program offered a favorable business environment with reasonable living costs and was ideal for those looking to settle permanently in Canada.

Criteria	Information
Investment Amount	For businesses in Regina and Saskatoon: Minimum of 300,000 CAD (~5,275,263,000 VND) For businesses in other Saskatchewan communities: Minimum of 200,000 CAD (~3,516,842,000 VND)
Processing Time	12 – 15 months
Conditions	Applicants needed a minimum personal net worth of 500,000 CAD (~8,712,500,000 VND). Applicants needed at least 3 years of business management experience in the last 10 years. A detailed business plan had to be submitted. Applicants needed to own at least ⅓ of the business. Applicants had to commit to operating the business sustainably. For businesses outside Regina and Saskatoon, at least 2 jobs had to be created for Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Advantages	There were no language, educational, or age requirements. Business criteria were less strict compared to many other provinces. The program provided an opportunity to settle in a province with a growing business environment and affordable living costs.
Disadvantages	Applicants had to create at least 2 jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents (excluding family members). The investment requirements for businesses operating in Regina and Saskatoon were significantly higher than in other regions of the province.

Prince Edward Island (PEI) Investment Immigration Program

The Prince Edward Island (PEI) Investment Immigration Program offers an attractive opportunity for investors who wish to settle in the smallest province of Canada through investment and business management. By participating in the Work Permit Stream, potential applicants can work towards becoming permanent residents, with the opportunity to live and work in Prince Edward Island.

Criteria	Information
Investment Amount	Buy at least 33.33% of an existing business or invest a minimum of 150,000 CAD (~2,689,389,084 VND) into a business in PEI
Processing Time	12 – 15 months
Conditions	Age between 21 and 59. Minimum personal net worth of 600,000 CAD (~10,455,000,000 VND). At least 3 years of business management experience in the last 5 years. High school diploma or equivalent. Minimum English proficiency of CLB 4.0. Commitment to live and work in PEI for at least 274 days per year. Must maintain business operations for at least 12 months.
Advantages	The lowest investment amount available. No job creation requirement. Business does not need to be profitable, only required to be continuously operational.
Disadvantages	The application fee is 10,000 CAD (~174,250,000 VND), refundable if the application is not accepted. Applicants must reside in PEI for at least 274 days per year and run the business themselves. English language proficiency is required when submitting the application.

In addition to PEI, you can also explore the Canada Atlantic Immigration Program to compare the benefits and general conditions of the four Atlantic provinces.

British Columbia Investment Immigration Program

The Canada Investment Immigration Program in British Columbia attracts experienced entrepreneurs who wish to invest in, establish, or acquire a business in the province. The main goal of the program is to contribute to economic development and create job opportunities for the local community.

Investment Amount	Minimum of 200,000 CAD (~3,516,842,000 VND)
Processing Time	18 – 20 months
Conditions	Ensure eligibility for immigration in terms of health and background Must be a legal citizen in the country of residence Requires language proficiency of CLB 4.0 (equivalent to IELTS 4.0) Must have business or management experience or a post-secondary degree lasting 2 years Must establish or improve a business in British Columbia Minimum personal net worth of 600,000 CAD (~10,550,526,000 VND) Create at least one full-time job for Canadian citizens or permanent residents Submit a feasible business plan with economic benefits for the province
Advantages	No experience required in the specific investment industry No requirement for escrow deposits No age limit and basic English proficiency required (CLB 4.0) The business does not need to be profitable, as long as it creates a job for Canadian citizens or permanent residents No industry-specific experience required for the business investment
Disadvantages	Must achieve at least 105 points to submit the application A comprehensive business plan is required The business must operate for at least 12 months before submitting the provincial nomination report Applicants must reside in British Columbia and personally run the business

Nova Scotia Investment Immigration Program

The Nova Scotia Investment Immigration Program is designed for experienced entrepreneurs or senior managers who wish to live permanently in the province. To participate, applicants must either establish a new business or acquire an existing business in Nova Scotia and actively manage it on a daily basis

Investment Amount	In Nova Scotia: Minimum of 150,000 CAD (~2,637,631,500 VND) For businesses outside the Halifax metropolitan area: Minimum of 170,000 CAD (~2,989,315,700 VND)
Processing Time	12 months
Conditions	Age 21 or older Minimum language proficiency of CLB 5.0 (IELTS 5.0) in English or French Commitment to live permanently in Nova Scotia and directly manage the business Minimum net worth of 600,000 CAD (~10.6 billion VND) for businesses in the Halifax metropolitan area and 400,000 CAD (~7 billion VND) for businesses outside the metropolitan area At least 3 years of experience as a business owner (owning at least 1/3 of the business) or 5 years of senior management experience Receive an invitation from the Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration (LSI) Complete the Expression of Interest letter Prepare a detailed business plan demonstrating how the project aligns with the economic priorities of the province
Advantages	Lower investment requirements compared to many other provincial programs Simple and easy-to-meet participation conditions Convenient processing procedure with provincial nomination once all requirements are met
Disadvantages	Requires a minimum language proficiency of CLB 5.0 in English or French, which may be challenging for some applicants

Ontario Investment Immigration Program (Closed)

The Ontario Investment Immigration Program was a solution for foreign entrepreneurs and investors who wished to settle in Canada through establishing or acquiring a business. The program contributed to economic growth and job creation in Ontario.

Criteria	Information
Investment Amount	In the Greater Toronto area: Minimum of 600,000 CAD (~10,550,526,000 VND) Outside the Greater Toronto area: Minimum of 200,000 CAD (~3,516,842,000 VND)
Processing Time	12 – 15 months
Conditions	Minimum CLB score of 4.0 (equivalent to IELTS) Minimum net worth: 800,000 CAD (~13,940,000,000 VND) for businesses in Greater Toronto and 400,000 CAD (~6,970,000,000 VND) for businesses outside this area At least 2 years of experience as a business owner or senior manager in the last 5 years Active participation in daily business management Business goals must generate profit from the sale of goods or services Create at least 2 full-time jobs in Greater Toronto or 1 full-time job if outside this area or in the IT sector
Advantages	No age limit, only requires high school education No requirement for escrow deposits English proficiency required only at later stages, not at the application stage No need for industry-specific experience for the investment
Disadvantages	Applicants must reside in Ontario for 75% of the business’s operating time Business needs to be profitable and continuously operational within the province The program is currently closed and no longer accepting applications

Manitoba Investment Immigration Program

The Manitoba Investment Immigration Program allows individuals with global business experience to settle in Manitoba through establishing, acquiring, or partnering in a business in the province. Applicants can start with a temporary work permit and later have the opportunity to be nominated for permanent residency.

Criteria	Information
Investment Amount	In the Winnipeg metropolitan area: Minimum of 250,000 CAD (~4,396,052,500 VND) Outside the Winnipeg metropolitan area: Minimum of 150,000 CAD (~2,637,631,500 VND)
Processing Time	12 – 24 months
Conditions	Minimum language proficiency of CLB 4.0 High school diploma or equivalent Minimum personal net worth of 500,000 CAD (~8,792,105,000 VND), verified by an independent certifying organization At least 3 years of business ownership experience or 5 years of senior management experience in the last 5 years Business owners must hold at least 33% of the business shares The business must create or maintain at least 1 full-time job for Canadian citizens or permanent residents in Manitoba A detailed business plan must be submitted
Advantages	Relatively low investment requirements No escrow deposit required as in some other programs Applicants can participate with at least 33% business ownership, full ownership is not required
Disadvantages	Applicants must personally manage the business and report activities within 6 months The final report must be submitted within 20 months of arrival in Manitoba No age limit for participation, but applicants aged 25-49 are prioritized in the points system

How Much Money is Needed for Canada Investment Immigration?

To answer the question of how much money is required for Canada investment immigration, based on practical experience, you will need to prepare capital ranging from 100,000 CAD to 300,000 CAD (1,796,500,000 VND ~ 5,389,500,000 VND) to have the opportunity to obtain permanent residency in Canada. Below is a comparison table of the financial requirements and conditions for each Canada immigration investment program to help you choose the path that best suits your immigration plans:

Program	Minimum Investment Amount (CAD)	Minimum Net Worth (CAD)
Alberta	100,000	300,000
British Columbia (BC PNP)	200,000	600,000
Ontario (Ontario PNP)	600,000 (Greater Toronto Area)	800,000 (Greater Toronto Area)
	200,000 (Outside Greater Toronto Area)	400,000 (Outside Greater Toronto Area)
Nova Scotia (Nova Scotia PNP)	150,000	600,000
New Brunswick (New Brunswick PNP)	125,000	300,000
Manitoba (Manitoba PNP)	250,000 (Winnipeg Area)	500,000
	150,000 (Outside Winnipeg Area)
Prince Edward Island (PEI PNP)	75,000	600,000
Newfoundland and Labrador (NL PNP)	200,000	600,000
Yukon (Yukon PNP)	150,000	300,000

With flexible investment amounts and varying financial requirements, you should choose the Canada investment immigration program based on your personal conditions and goals.

Canada Investment Immigration Visa Application Process

Below are the basic steps involved in the process of applying for an investment immigration visa to Canada. Depending on the specific program, the steps may vary in order or additional requirements may apply. However, the overall process typically includes the following:

Step 1: Identify the Suitable Program and Prepare Documents

First, you need to determine the investment program that fits your capabilities and personal goals, such as Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Start-up Visa, or the temporary work permit category (C11). Then, prepare your personal documents, financial documents, and a detailed business plan.

Step 2: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) or Program Registration

Depending on the program, you will need to submit:

• EOI (Expression of Interest) for provincial programs.
• Letter of Support for the Start-up Visa program.
• Investment project proposal if applying under the work permit for business support.

Step 3: Receive Invitation and Submit Work Permit Application (if applicable)

After initial approval, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) or a support letter from the designated organization or province. Then, you will need to submit an application for a work permit to be allowed to move to Canada and run your investment activities.

Step 4: Implement the Business Project in Canada
Once you receive the Work Permit, you can begin operating your business in Canada, implementing business activities, and ensuring compliance with relevant conditions. The minimum operation period is typically 12-20 months.

Step 5: Apply for Permanent Residency (PR)

After meeting all the requirements (such as operating the business, creating jobs, submitting financial reports, etc.), you will be eligible to apply for permanent residency (PR) at the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Step 6: Receive PR and Apply for Citizenship

After receiving your Permanent Resident (PR) card, you can continue living and working in Canada. After 3-5 years of residency, you can apply for Canadian citizenship, completing the immigration process.

Phan Immigration – Trusted Canada Investment Immigration Consulting

Phan Immigration is proud to be a government-approved immigration consultancy specializing in personalized immigration solutions for individuals. We are committed to being a strong bridge between Vietnam and Canada, offering safe, efficient, and cost-effective immigration solutions to our clients. Not only do we help our clients achieve their immigration goals, but we also accompany them in stabilizing their lives, advancing their careers, and successfully building businesses in Canada.

When choosing Phan Immigration’s services, you can be completely assured of:

• Highly Professional Team: Our team of experts is licensed by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (CICC), ensuring quality and professional services.
• Comprehensive Solutions: Phan Immigration not only provides services related to short-term visas but also specializes in advising on diverse immigration programs such as Express Entry, provincial nominations, family sponsorship, and many other options.
• Strong Network of Partners: We build lasting relationships with immigration lawyers, economic lawyers, and local businesses in Canada, supporting you in completing your application and smoothly integrating into the new environment.
• Responsibility and Transparency: Phan Immigration prioritizes transparency in information, processes, and costs. We commit to taking responsibility for every stage of the process, ensuring that our clients always feel secure and confident.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Canada Investment Immigration Program

If you are considering immigrating to Canada through investment but still don’t fully understand the process, Phan Immigration will answer some common questions that you should not miss:

Question 1: Who should apply for the Investment Immigration Program?

The Canadian immigration program is specifically designed for entrepreneurs, investors, self-employed individuals, and senior executives.

Question 2: Can my family accompany me for Canada investment immigration?

When you apply for the Canada investment immigration program, your spouse and dependent children can accompany you and be granted permanent resident cards if the application is approved. After living and working in Canada for 3-5 years, you can apply for citizenship, and your family will also have the opportunity to obtain Canadian citizenship.

Question 3: Are there any risks involved in Canada investment immigration?

Canada investment immigration opens many opportunities but also carries potential risks if not properly prepared:

• Application errors: Conflicting information regarding background, finances, or business experience may lead to rejection.
• Inconsistency with previous visas: Discrepancies between visa applications may be considered dishonest.
• Document forgery: Falsifying financial statements, experience, etc., if discovered, could result in permanent entry bans.
• Lack of financial transparency: Failure to prove legitimate funding sources or financial flow can lead to rejection.
• Failure to fulfill commitments: Not implementing the project as planned can lead to rejection of PR status or revocation of permanent residency.

Question 4: How long does the processing time for Canada investment immigration take?

The processing time varies depending on the program you apply for. Most investors are required to operate a business in Canada for 6 to 18 months before submitting an application for permanent residency. Afterward, the permanent residency processing typically takes 1 to 3 years, depending on the program and the processing speed of the immigration authorities.

In the article above, Phan Immigration has provided answers to all your questions regarding Canada investment immigration. This program offers an attractive opportunity for high-net-worth investors who wish to expand their businesses and grow their careers in Canada. If you are looking for a clear and effective pathway to settle in this country, don’t hesitate to contact Phan Immigration for professional advice and dedicated support!