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Overview of the Canadian Provincial Nominee Program

The Canadian Provincial Nominee Program was launched in 1990, and the provincial nomination program currently attracts many immigrants to Canada, second only to Express Entry Canada. So how does this program work? Which provinces does it apply to? Join Phan Immigration to find out the details through the article below.

Overview of the Canadian Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The Provincial Nominee Program, known in English as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), is one of Canada’s immigration programs. This program is operated in parallel between different provinces in Canada. Canada immigration PNP is applied in 2 territories and 9 provinces of Canada. To attract immigrants to their cities to create opportunities to work in Canada and family members of candidates who can come to live, settle and work in Canada.

For the PNP program, the government gives localities full discretion to nominate immigrants with profiles and qualifications that meet the province’s requirements. After that, the federal government will review and grant permanent resident card candidates if they meet the necessary criteria.

List of Provincial Nominee Programs

At the beginning of implementation, the program was limited in the number of participants. However, the number of participants gradually increases daily thanks to the growing socio-economic potential. Therefore, the Canadian government has constantly expanded the program to many provinces and applied social security policies to attract foreign workers.

The provinces participating in the provincial nomination program include:

British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)

The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program is currently rated as diverse, with career categories tailored to the needs of international graduates, workers and entrepreneurs. In addition, the program also has categories linked to Canada’s Express Entry system, helping you have the opportunity to work and settle permanently in Canada.

Alberta Provincial Nominee Program

With its economic growth and diversity of occupations, Alberta has always been a top destination for immigrants worldwide. This program is suitable for Express Entry candidates and those not affiliated with Express Entry. The Alberta Provincial Nominee Program welcomes many fresh graduates, skilled workers and investors/entrepreneurs to work or settle in Canada.

Saskatchewan Provincial Nominee Program

The Saskatchewan state program is open to highly skilled and experienced candidates who meet the criteria set forth by the province. The program applies to candidates who have been working in Saskatchewan for 6 months and candidates with overseas work experience; who receive an eligible job offer and meet the relevant criteria for language proficiency, qualifications and work experience.

Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program

Prince Edward Island (also known as Prince Island) accepts candidates to settle through 3 streams: Express Entry, skilled labour and investment and business. In addition, the PEI Provincial Nominee Program allows candidates to receive an invitation to apply from the relevant government by receiving a nomination from that provincial government.

In addition, here are some other provincial nomination programs:

• Ontario Provincial Nominee Program (OINP)
• Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (NSNP)
• Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
• Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
• New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
• Yukon Provincial Nominee Program (YNP)
• Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)

How does the Provincial Nominee Program work?

The first thing candidates must do is choose the province to live in. Candidates can refer to Phan Immigration’s Process section, which includes comparison tools, to discover which province best suits their needs. Applicants will then need to see if they meet the requirements of that province.

Selection Criteria:

Immigration criteria will be carefully selected by the provinces each year. Provinces can range from students after graduation to entrepreneurs, skilled workers, or even low-skilled workers. Therefore, you must meet the criteria set forth by the province in which you apply.

Depending on the province, the way to choose the priority will be set out differently. Some provinces use an Expression of Interest (EOI) system through assessment scores, while others prefer online applications.

How to Apply for the Canadian Provincial Nominee Program

Here are the steps to help you understand more about the Canadian Provincial Nominee Program application process:

Step 01: Find out which Province is right for you

Each Province in Canada will bring you different living experiences. From beaches to bustling cities, each Province offers different exciting experiences. Therefore, candidates should carefully consider in choosing a province that suits their lifestyle and family.

Step 02: Determine the path that best suits you

Based on the needs and suitability of the application, you will aim to become a permanent resident in the provincial nomination program and have the opportunity to own Canadian citizenship. Once you meet the requirements set forth by the Province, follow the provincial instructions to receive a nomination letter from the Province that is right for you.

How do I know which programs my profile is suitable for? How do I find out what procedural requirements the Province has? Phan Immigration will help you do everything.

Self-Assessment Test

Step 03: Completing your Express Entry profile

Some provinces will issue a Provincial Nominee certificate by updating your profile on the Express Entry system. Getting a Provincial Nominee gets you an extra 600 points on your application. You will surely grasp the opportunity to settle in Canada. In contrast, the provinces may be able to send you directly from Express Entry’s application management system.

How do we help you?

As a Canadian Council of Licensed Immigration Consultants (CICC) member, Phan Immigration has close relationships with reputable organizations and partners in Canada, bringing a lot of valuable information. And assist in planning a route to settle down and settle in Canada.

Phan Immigration specializes in consulting immigration services according to the needs and conditions of customers. To assist customers in the process of preparing and reviewing documents, we will do all procedures related to the application. As a result, you will be assured when using our services, and you will save time and notify customers of the earliest changes in records to customers.

You will receive a one-on-one consultation with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) tailored to each client’s goals. With many policies to support immigrants and quality living conditions, you not only experience an international working environment but also have the opportunity to become a permanent resident and own Canadian citizenship.

Phan Immigration always has a team of consultants with many years of experience in reviewing applications and handling customers’ difficult problems. So choosing Phan Immigration to help you apply for a Canadian Immigrant Visa for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is extremely necessary.

Contact Phan Immigration for your questions about the PNP Canadian immigration program! Let Phan Immigration make your Canadian dream easier.

Schedule a free consultation via the hotline: 093 719 5208

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Immigrate to Canada as a business: Some ideal immigration programs for entrepreneurs.

The Provincial Nomination Program ( PNP) offers streams for those looking for investment settlement programs in Canada. While there is no federal programs for investment settlement in Canada, the different provincial nomination programs attract the attention of many Vietnamese investors and entrepreneurs because of their competitiveness and their reasonable investment requirements.

Author: An Le, Immigration Program Specialist, Phan Immigration Canada

As we mentioned, there are no investment settlement programs in Canada, but some provinces have attractive programs that allow you to use your assets or investment  to start a business in Canada. 

 The requirements to apply to immigrate to Canada as a business with the PNP vary from one province to another. For example, the investment and assets requirement will vary on where in Canada you will decide to immigrate to Canada as a business.

 Let’s take a closer at some of the ways you could immigrate to Canada as a business.

 Ontario Entrepreneur stream (OINP)

Ontario is the province in Canada and is a economic and financial center of this country. Therefore, Ontario is suitable for investors to implement their business projects as its benefits from a strong economy and infrastructures.

To participate in the Ontario Entrepreneur Stream, investors must meet the following conditions:

•  Have total assets of at least CAD 800,000 for a company operating in Greater Ontario or CAD 400,000 for a company outside of Greater Ontario.
• Investment is about a minimum of CAD 600,000 for a company operating in Greater Ontario or CAD 200,000 for a company outside the Greater Ontario area.
• Have at least 2 years of experience within the last 5 years.
• English: IELTS 4.0.
• Create at least 2 jobs for Canadians if the company operates in Greater Ontario or 1 job for Canadians if the company operates outside of Greater Ontario.

Entrepreneur stream in British Columbia province (BC PNP)

 British Columbia (BC) is famous for its mild climate, with average temperatures much warmer than other provinces. Many Vietnamese people have chosen BC as a place to immigrate for the whole family when settling in Canada. The population growth rate in BC is mainly based on international immigration.

 Investors must meet the following conditions to participate in the British Columbia Entrepreneur Stream.

•  Have total assets of at least 600,000 CAD
• Invest at least 200,000 CAD in a Canadian business
• Have experience in managing or running a business
• English: IELTS 4.0

Entrepreneur stream in Saskatchewan province (SINP)

Saskatchewan is a western province of Canada, and this is the province with the lowest unemployment rate and cost of living in Canada.

 Conditions of entrepreneur stream in Saskatchewan Program  

• Have a net worth of at least 500,000 CAD
• Have experience as a manager or business owner, about 3 years within the last 10 years
• Education: graduated high school or above.
• Invest at least 200,000 – 300,000 CAD depending on the city in Saskatchewan
• Create at least 1-2 jobs for Canadians depending on the city in Saskatchewan

 Work in Canada while you wait for your permanent residence

The Canadian Government supports entrepreneurs who come to contribute to the country’s economy. 

Those who choose to  immigrate to Canada as a business, under the PNP program, will be allowed to submit  a work permit application to work in Canada while waiting for the PR results. Since the work permit is to support the implementation of your business, you won’t be required to include a Labour Market Impact Assessment as part of your application.. 

To qualify for the work permit to work in Canada through PNP entrepreneur stream,  you must meet the following:

• Available passport or travel document.
• Education credential assessment report  ( if applicable)
• Language test results ( if applicable)
• Police certificate.
• Medical exam.
• Proof of funds.

Bring your family with you while you work in Canada

Canada also understand the importance of keeping families together. When you qualify to work in Canada under the PNP program, your spouse can qualify for an open work permit for the same duration as your permit and visa. An open work permit will allow your spouse to work in Canada in any job with any employer.

The other important thing, your children also can move to Canada with you under Study Permit with the free tuition fee until the age of 18. You will be proud that your children are studying in one of the best education systems in the world.

Life in Canada

Coming to Canada, coming to a country of cultural diversity, you will never feel lost because the Vietnamese community here is very large and friendly. Canadian Citizen are also available if you need their assistance on your first arrival here.

Worried you will miss your home country when you immigrate to Canada? Don’t worry, there are vibrant Vietnamese communities across Canada where you can find restaurants, specialty stores to get those products or that food you miss and many organizations that can help you and family settle in Canada.

In most of the largest Canadian cities, you can even find Vietnamese traditional Tet festivals and markets that are sure to bring you a sense of home. Read more about Tet in Canada in our blog. 

Why choose Phan Immigration Canada as your consultant

 This is one of the important steps that greatly affects the outcome of your application. A Reputable Canadian immigration consulting company will assist you throughout the process of making your immigration application.

 We help people ignite opportunities to elevate the lives of others. With more than 15 years of immigration experience, we provide transparents, personalized and accountable immigration service to connect our customers with the lives they imagine in Canada.

 Phan Immigration, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant specializes in immigration services in Canada. Not simply consulting, we will design an immigration route tailored to each client’s profile.

Contact us now to get the best advice just for you!

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Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) – Entrepreneur

Learn more about Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)

1. About Saskatchewan

The province of Saskatchewan is located in the western part of Canada. This is one of the three provinces of the Prairie region Canada. This city has the lowest unemployment rate and cost of living in Canada. This place is known as “Canada’s wheat bowl,“ with a vast system of wheat fields and grasslands.

Saskatchewan has a vibrant arts and culture scene, beautiful provincial parks, and many sports and recreational opportunities. Known as the birthplace of Medicare, residents enjoy free health care and excellent health operations services.

The SINP is just one of the steps to becoming a permanent resident in Saskatchewan. All approved applicants must also apply for residency through Immigration Canada (IRCC) of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

2. What is the Saskatchewan Provincial Nominee Program (SINP)?

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) is an immigration program administered by a provincial authority, operating under an agreement with the federal government. This program allows Saskatchewan to nominate applicants to the federal government for permanent residence.

The SINP’s Entrepreneur category attracts business talent to the province. The SINP Entrepreneur Category nominates applicants who are approved, under the criteria program, to acquire or collaborate in a business located in Saskatchewan and actively engaged in management and who reside in Saskatchewan.

Self-assess your profile for free

Purpose of the program

• Selection of candidates based on the economic needs of the province.
• Competition application processing time.
• Provincial immigration officers who can explain program requirements and processes.

Requirements required

• Work experience: at least 3 years of business management experience in the last 10 years.
• Proof of total assets of at least $500,000 CAD.

Applicants are required to invest a minimum amount in the business, specifically:

• $300,000 CAD in Regina or Saskatoon.
• $200,000 CAD in regions other than Regina or Saskatoon at least $200,000 CAD to start a business.
• Hire at least 2 Canadians or permanent residents in Saskatchewan.

Process

Phan Immigration can assist you with the application process and assessment for free to determine if you are eligible for the program. It is mandatory to meet the minimum eligibility criteria to be able to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) – this is required and cannot be skipped. 

How to apply?

You can rest assured that Phan Immigration is here to do everything for you – Contact for advice now.

Phan Immigration is proud to be a Canadian immigration consulting company located in Ho Chi Minh City. We specialize in Canadian immigration with unparalleled experience.

Do you aspire to live in  Canada? Do you want to know if you can qualify for permanent residence? Then let Phan Immigration help you achieve your goals.

Phan Immigration – Ignite your dream! Go further!

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Express Entry Program: It’s time to apply!

By: Yan Desjardins, Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant

Canada remains a top destination for immigrants

In 2021, Canada welcomed 405,000 new permanent residents, a record high number of admissions. Canada’s Express Entry program accounted for most of the new admissions, while other programs such as family sponsorships and international student graduates contributed to this all-time high number. 

At the beginning of this year, IRCC announced a target of 431,000 new permanent residents to be admitted to Canada. So far, Canada has admitted 275,000 new permanent residents. Once again, the Express Entry program accounts for most of it.

The immigration backlog

It is no secret that Canada’s immigration system is experiencing a substantial backlog. Canada’s priority response to global humanitarian crises added to the long backlog that occurred over the pandemic.

Recently, Canada’s Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced the ongoing efforts being deployed to reduce the immigration backlog. IRCC will hire 1,250 new employees by the fall to speed up the processing of all lines of business, including the Express Entry program.

This measure is in addition to the Express Entry program resumption of the invitation rounds, IRCC’s investment of CAD85 millions and other temporary policies to reduce the backlog. 

For more information on IRCC backlog reduction measures, click here.

Last but not least, IRCC committed to more transparency with regards to the backlog management and expected reduction targets. Applicants can now see the IRCC backlog statistics on their website.

Why choose the Express Entry program?

I am often asked: What is the easiest way to immigrate to Canada? While there is no easy answer to this, since immigration is tailored to everyone’s needs, it is safe to say that the  Express Entry program is the fastest way to immigrate to Canada. 

The Express Entry program allows you to use your previous work experience, education, age and language skills to get Express entry scoring points that can get you an invitation to apply for a permanent residence visa for Canada. 

Additionally, most of the applications for the Express Entry program are processed in approximately 6 months. As we mentioned above, IRCC is working at reinstating the normal processing delays, which is encouraging news for those wishing to immigrate to Canada. 

The Express Entry program rounds of invitations

Since July 2022, IRCC has resumed the rounds of invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence under the Express Entry program. Here are the details of the invitations as well as the Express entry scoring benchmarks since July.

• August 17, 2022: 
• • • 2,250 invitations issued
    • Express entry score: 525

• August 3rd, 2022:

• • • 2,000 invitation issued
    • Express entry score: 533

• July 20th, 2022:

• • • 1,750 invitations issued
    • Express entry score: 542

• July 6th, 2022:

• • 1,500 invitations issued
  • Express entry score: 557

As IRCC progresses in issuing ITA to qualified candidates in the Express Entry program pool of qualified candidates, we can expect to see the Express entry scoring benchmarks to reduce gradually. 

Immigration streams of the Express Entry program

Applicants who wish to qualify for immigration under the Express Entry program can do so using 4 different streams, most commonly referred to immigrating to Canada under the skilled categories. 

• The Federal Skilled Workers Class 
• The Federal Skilled Trade Class
• The Canadian Experience Class
• The Provincial Nominees Program

You can find more information on these programs by clicking the links to our website above.

How can Phan Immigration help you?

If you are looking for reliable immigration consulting for the Express Entry program, then look no further. At Phan Immigration, we have extensive experience in immigration consulting and a dedicated waiting to help you ignite your dreams of living in Canada. 

As we covered in this article, since the Express Entry program round of invitations have resumed more than 7,000 applicants have been invited to apply. With increasing immigration targets in 2022 and 2023, now is the time to apply for immigration under the Express Entry program.

Take our self-assessment test today to see how you can qualify.

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How to Immigrate to Canada as a Business

Author: Yan Desjardins, Founder & Executive Director

As a Canadian working in Vietnam for many years, I have always been thoroughly impressed by Vietnamese entrepreneurs’ passion, business approaches, and dedication that is brought to the table.

Through my engagements, previous work experience and actually starting my own business in Ho Chi Minh City, I have been fortunate to learn more than a thing or two from Vietnamese businessmen and women.

To bring light to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to immigrate to Canada as a business, below is a list of what entrepreneurs looking to jump into the Canadian market need to prepare as part of the Canadian immigration process.

Also, as you keep reading below, we will also explore some basic concepts of the Canadian visa startup program requirements.

It starts with an idea!

The Canadian visa startup program aims to bring innovative businesses to Canada that will create jobs for Canadians and compete globally. Your business idea should bring new innovation to the business market in Canada. 

But how can you know if your business idea is innovative or not? That is a good question. With our expertise and our large pool of partners in Canada, we can help bring your idea to the next level and help you secure the support of a designated organization.

What is the role played by Designated Organizations? 

Designated organizations are authorized by IRCC to support the start-up business in Canada. These organizations are key to the success of the applicants and their businesses. There are 3 types of organizations: 

1. Venture Capital Funds – provides an investment of at least 200,000CAD;
2. Angel Investors – provides an investment of at least 75,000CAD;
3. Business Incubators – provide expertise and support to bring the business to success.

When applying for the Canadian visa startup program, you will need to secure a letter of support from one of those organizations in order to apply for the visa. Don’t know how to get a letter of support, do not worry, we can help you. Contact us for a consultation.

Develop a Viable Business Plan

To immigrate to Canada as a business, the first and most crucial stage in your visa application is to develop a viable business proposal that will be reviewed by one or more of the designated organizations, and furthermore by the immigration officer when your visa application is being processed. 

Your business plan should highlight a specific, well-researched, and suitable business model for the Canadian market. Your business plan, it should include as much detail as possible within your industry and should consist of some or all the following sections as a standardized base:

• A description of your business model;
• Extensive market research;
• An internal analysis of your company’s competitive advantages;
• An external analysis of Canada’s political, economic, social, technological, legal and environment in relation to your business model;
• Competitor analysis;
• Identifying your strengths, weaknesses and the opportunities and threats entering the market;
• Your company’s value proposition;
• Short-term execution strategy;
• Long-term vision;
• Identifying key partners and suppliers;
• Team & staffing plan;
• Marketing strategy; and,
• Profit and loss analysis.

When developing this plan, there should also be a long-term growth plan highlighting how your business will create jobs for Canadians and positively contribute to the Canadian economy. If you are not certain on how to best create a business plan that will suit your application to immigrate to Canada as a business, contact us for a consultation, we can help. 

Having Relevant Experience

When applying to start a business in Canada, you will need to demonstrate that you have similar or relevant experience in the industry of your business model. In addition, Canadian Immigration Officers will assess your managerial, educational, and employment background to establish if you are suitable to immigrate to Canada as a business. Therefore, it is important that you include all relevant skills and experience for Immigration Officers to be convinced that you can start a new venture in the Canadian market.

Sufficient Financial Capital

Entrepreneurs who wish to immigrate to Canada as a business should have sufficient financial capital to execute the proposed business plan during the application process. While the Canadian visa startup program does not have a financial capital requirement to qualify, it is a good measure to take to ensure the success of the business. 

During this process, the applicant must also show that the investment into the business will benefit the Canadian economy. While there isn’t a ‘set amount’ required from entrepreneurs, it will depend on the business plan and model that is reasonable to cover operational expenses for a 1-2 year period.

However, as a general rule of thumb, we recommend that applicants aim to have an investment of at least CAD $50,000 for the first year. When venturing into more complex business models such as exports, packaging or retail, realistically, it may be worthwhile having a higher financial capital to cover the business costs.

An important note to highlight is that investing your entire savings into starting a business in Canada is not suggested. Starting a new company, especially in a foreign market, involves a steep learning curve and risk. 

Therefore, when immigrating to Canada as a business, having sufficient financial capital is essential for your business health, and that is why IRCC has designated organizations that can help you and your business succeed. 

Demonstrate Commitment & Execution

Once you have established your business model, with the help of our partners, we will advise that you start taking smaller steps to commence business executions before submitting your application. Demonstrating your commitment to your business plan is an essential step during the application process. Some examples to show your commitment can be developing a brand identity and guidelines, for example.

To better your chances to immigrate to Canada as a business, being able to demonstrate your commitment in any shape, way, or form will ultimately provide a positive outlook while your application is being reviewed.

How Can Phan Immigration Support You to Immigrate to Canada as a Business?

We can support you in your immigration application to start a business as an entrepreneur in Canada. As a registered Canadian immigration consulting firm and 100% Canadian-owned, we can help you attain your ambitions and goals with a realistic approach with step-by-step guidance.

Book a meeting with our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant to discuss your business idea and how you too can immigrate to Canada as a business.

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Start-Up Visa: What is a letter of support and how can I get one

Author: Yan Desjardins, Founder & Executive Director

The Canadian visa startup program was introduced in 2013 as a pilot program to help Canada meet its economic growth by bringing more innovative businesses to Canada. The Canadian visa startup program was implemented successfully and was later made into a permanent immigration program to help those wishing to immigrate to Canada as a business owner. 

The Canadian visa startup program

Are you an entrepreneur? Do you have a business idea that you think is innovative and can compete in global markets? Then the Canadian visa startup program is right for you. That’s right, you and up to four of your business partners immigrate to Canada as business owners and can settle down in Canada with the start-up visa Canada program. All of the members will need to meet the conditions of the Canadian visa startup program for the project to qualify.

Designated Organizations to help you immigrate to Canada as a start-up.

Designated organizations are entities that are authorized by IRCC to support the Canadian visa startup program. These organizations’ role is to provide either investment or business incubation support and they are key to the success of the applicants who wish to immigrate to Canada as a start-up.

The following are the 3 types of organizations and the service they can provide. 

1. Venture Capital Funds – provides an investment of at least 200,000CAD;
2. Angel Investors – provides an investment of at least 75,000CAD;
3. Business Incubators – provide expertise and support to bring the business to success.

When applying for the Canadian visa startup program, you will need to secure a letter of support from one of those organizations in order to immigrate to Canada as a start-up. 

What is a letter of support and why do I need it?

When your business idea has been refined and your business plan is ready, then comes the time to pitch your idea to one or more of the Canadian visa startup program designated organizations. Having the proper support to ensure that your idea and profile are properly structured is essential to securing the proper support from an organization. 

Depending on the type of organization your business pitch is presented to, you may have different eligibility requirements to meet in other for you and your business partners to immigrate to Canada as business owners.

For example, if you wish to secure some monetary investment, you will need to meet the threshold requirements from either a Venture Capital or an Angel Investor. However, business incubators do not provide monetary investment, rather they offer incubation and support programs for individuals wishing to immigrate to Canada as business owners.

Once you have been successful at either securing the investment or completing a business incubator program, you will receive the letter of support required for you and your business partners to apply to immigrate to Canada as business owners. Without the letter, the application for the visa cannot be submitted. 

How Can Phan Immigration Support You to immigrate to Canada as a start-up?

We can support you in your immigration application to start a business as an entrepreneur in Canada. We have the network, resources and dedicated relationship with selected designated organizations to help you reach your goals of immigrating with the Canadian visa startup program.

As a Regulated Canadian immigration consulting firm, we can help you attain your ambitions and goals with a realistic, transparent and cost-effective approach with step-by-step guidance.

Book a meeting with our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant to discuss your business idea and how you too can immigrate to Canada as a start-up. 

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Phan Immigration Canada partners with Empowered Startups.

Do you have a unique business idea and would like to start a business overseas? Do you know about the Canadian visa startup program? The program aims at helping individuals immigrate to Canada as start-up entrepreneurs. With the help of key partners, you too could benefit from the Canadian visa startup program.

When it comes to the Canadian visa startup program, entrepreneurs must obtain the support of a designated organization to qualify. These organizations are designated by Immigration Refugees Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to support entrepreneurs and help them succeed as they immigrate to Canada as a start-up business.

Phan Immigration Canada is proud to announce that we are partnering with Empowered Startups,  a business incubator approved and designated by IRCC. 

Empowered Startups – The innovative business incubator. 

Empowered Startups offer mentorship for aspiring entrepreneurs who wish to immigrate to Canada as a start-up business. Not only can Empowered Startups mentor you and your business idea, but they offer networking, ecosystems and all of the tools necessary to successfully establish your business in Canada and meet the Canadian visa startup program requirements.

Empowered Startups works both locally in Canada and internationally to help entrepreneurs reach their full potential and be ready to apply for the Canadian visa startup program. The program consists of two components: acceleration and incubation. 

Empowered Startups have developed their own local ecosystems to support Canadian innovation and technology. Their extensive ecosystems and tools are used to assist entrepreneurs in building high potential innovative businesses that can scale both domestically and internationally. 

Where is Empowered Startups located?

Empowered Startups’ incubator headquarters is located in Vancouver, British Columbia. However, since the Canadian visa startup program applies to all provinces in Canada (except for Québec), the incubator can support the development and implementation of your business all across the country. This effectively means that you can choose to immigrate to Canada as a start-up in most Canadian provinces. 

How can Phan Immigration and Empowered Startups help me with the Canadian visa startup program?

First, when you join the Phan Immigration family, you get unparalleled expertise in the field of immigration consulting. Phan Immigration can assist in preparing your profile prior to the referral to Empowered Startups for the Canadian visa startup program. We will ensure that your profile meets the program requirements for both the incubator and to immigrate to Canada as a start-up business. 

Empowered Startups will then review the submission, and you will receive a decision on your application. If you are accepted into the incubator program, you will be asked to complete the ‘Global Accelerator Program (GSA).’ This is the first step in getting ready for the Canadian visa startup program.

Upon successfully completing the GSA, you will receive the ‘letter of support’ needed to apply for the Canadian visa startup program. Then, Phan Immigration’s immigration experts will prepare your file to immigrate to Canada as a start-up business.

What happens after the GSA and the Canadian visa startup program application?

Empowered Startups will accompany you and support your startup for a period of 2 years. This will allow your business to grow and benefit from the incubator’s valuable resources and networking in Canada. 

Phan Immigration will also accompany you at every step of your relocation to Canada.

Why should I choose to do business with Phan Immigration and Empowered Startups?

At Phan Immigration, we offer our clients unparalleled immigration consulting experience in Vietnam. With the help of our partner, Empowered Startups, we can take your business idea and bring it to completion with the proper support from a well-respected business incubator that has proven, over time, an astounding success rate for the Canadian visa startup program.

Also, our Canadian visa startup program is cost-effective and very competitive within the current market. All the more reasons to contact us for a free consultation! 

Together we can ignite your dreams of business ownership in Canada.

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Top 5 Reasons to Use Canada’s Startup-Visa

Top 5 Reasons to Use Canada’s Startup-Visa

Author: Nolan Clack, Guest Blogger

Canada’s startup visa program has been geared towards attracting innovative entrepreneurs worldwide to start their business in the Great White North. Since the start of Canada’s startup visa, the program has brought entrepreneurs worldwide to set up their innovative business ideas within Canada’s favourable market conditions.

But what is exactly Canada’s startup visa? Why should you consider Canada’s startup visa program?

Simply put, Canada’s startup visa

program is similar to the TV show Shark Tank or Dragons Den. However, rather than presenting their business ideas in front of a panel on live TV to gain investments, business owners applying for Canada’s startup visa program must solicitate the investment of Designated Organizations. These organizations are business incubators, angel investors, and venture capitals funds approved by the Canadian government.

For example, suppose one of the designated organizations loves your business idea and selects to work work with you. In that case, the application process for Canada’s startup visa can then commence once a letter of commitment has been issued by the organization.

Canada’s startup visa program allows up to 5 business stakeholders to apply for a Canadian permanent residence visa. Each stakeholder can apply individually and include their immediate family members in their application!

Now that you know what Canada’s startup visa program is, let’s look at the top 5 reasons to use the startup visa program to immigrate to Canada.

It’s a safe program

Jumping into a new market and not knowing anything about Canadian business practices, laws, regulations, and no business connections is a daunting endeavour. However, with Canada’s startup visa program, entrepreneurs will work closely with their designated organization that sponsored their application. These designated organizations have all the connections needed to make introductions to help set up your business, explain Canadian laws, and help understand and launch in the Canadian market. For this reason, immigrating to Canada as a startup has its own safety net providing a large leg-up to support entrepreneurs along the way.

Additionally, other Canadian business programs available such as the Provincial Nominee Program require individuals to come to Canada on a work permit and set up a business first. Whereas, this is not the case with Canada’s startup visa program as it is a direct permanent residence application. Meaning, once a letter of acceptance from a designated organization has been secured, the applicant can then apply for a permanent residence visa.

The point for this example is that for Canada’s startup visa, applicants are not required to set up a business to be accepted. Thus, resulting in less risk and commitment until the application has been approved.

2. No personal minimum investment amount

Unlike other immigration programs to Canada, Canada’s startup visa program does not have a minimum personal investment amount. For example, all (5) stakeholders do not need to invest their own personal money within the investment. Therefore, immigrating to Canada as a startup is a lot more flexible under this program. Applicants are welcome to apply to Canada as long as a designated organization has provided a certificate of acceptance to the program.

Although there isn’t a minimum personal investment, there is however minimum investment required from a designated organization to qualify for Canada’s startup visa program.

Those minimum investments are:

• Accelerator or Incubator Programs: No investment from accelerator or incubator programs is required.
• Angel Investment: To be accepted within Canada’s startup visa program, an angel investment of at least $75,000 Canadian dollars is required.
• Venture Capital: Immigrating to Canada as a startup under Canadian venture capital requires a minimum investment from the firm of at least $200,000 Canadian dollars.

Regardless of which designated organization sponsoring the Canadian startup visa, you will need to show the Canadian government that you can support yourself for the first year residing in Canada on your own personal finances.

3. It’s fast

Unlike other immigration programs in other countries, Canada’s startup visa program has reasonable processing times for permanent residence that take on average between 12 to 18 months.

Individuals looking to immigrate to Canada as a startup before gaining Canada’s startup visa have the option to come to Canada beforehand by applying for a work permit.

Applying for a work permit before receiving your startup visa will provide additional time getting started on your business, bringing family over, and settling in while you wait for your Canadian startup visa permanent residency to be processed.

Although it is unnecessary to come to Canada beforehand to get your business started, it is an option as some industries and business models have a shelf-life. So it can make sense to apply for a Canadian work permit to immigrate to Canada as a startup to prepare for things beforehand.

4. It benefits the Canadian economy

Canada’s startup visa program has attracted many foreign talents for good reasons. Given

Canada is a G7 country with a highly recognized education system, startup communities, and government support, making it an attractive economic market to immigrate to Canada as a startup.

However, when applying for Canada’s startup visa, the government will also factor in the following criteria to determine your business idea:

• Does your business idea benefit the Canadian economy?

• Does your business create jobs for Canadians?

• Is your business idea able to compete on a global scale?

Generally, a brick-and-mortar business model is probably not best suited for Canada’s startup visa. However, suppose you still wish to immigrate to Canada as a startup with a brick-and-mortar type business model, then the Provincial Nominees Program might be right for you.

However, as previously mentioned, applying for one of the Provincial Nominees Program will not provide the same support that designated organizations provide entrepreneurs under Canada’s startup visa program.

5. It’s flexible

It doesn’t matter how small or big your business is. As long as your business idea is innovative and creates jobs for Canadians, and can compete globally, Canada’s startup visa program is a viable immigration option.

For example, if your business happens to be in the idea phase but you haven’t gotten started on it yet, then designated organizations such as accelerator or incubator programs can support making your idea come to life in the Canadian market.

Additionally, the flexibility in Canada’s startup visa is that there are no requirements for managerial experience. The flexibility of this criteria is well suited for software engineers, coders, designers or marketers with no managerial experience for this reason.

Lastly, immigrating to Canada as a startup has no age limit. What does matter is if you have an innovative business idea that meets the three earlier determining criteria that were previously mentioned, then you’re welcome to apply to Canada’s startup visa program.

Now that you have a better understanding of Canada’s startup visa, perhaps it’s your time to apply to immigrate to Canada as a startup? If you’re unsure whether your business model fits under Canada’s startup visa program, contact us. We will provide insights to align your business goals to a realistic approach to Canadian immigration programs.

At Phan Immigration, we are 100% Canadian-owned and licensed Canadian immigration consultants, supporting entrepreneurs with business model validation, Canadian market entry, and immigration service.

Contact us today!

Together we can ignite your dreams and take you further.

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What Is The Federal Skilled Trades Program?

Author: Yan Desjardins, Founder & Executive Director

The Federal Skilled Trades Program: The Overview.

The Skilled Trades program is one of the three programs available to immigrate to Canada under the skilled category of the Express Entry program. Read our blog on Express Entry for more information.

The Skilled Trades program requirements slightly differ from the Federal Skilled Workers program as it targets individuals with specific skill sets.

The Federal Skilled Trades program is designed to help immigrants with technical skills to immigrate to Canada through Express Entry. Skilled trades professions fall within the skill type B, of the National Occupation Classification (NOC). This means jobs that require technical or trades skills usually require a college education, specialized or apprenticeship training.

In this blog, we will look at some of the most questions asked in regards to the Federal Skilled Trades program:

• What are the minimum requirements to apply?
• What level of language proficiency do I need to qualify?
• What type of work experience can be eligible for this Entry Express program?
• Is there an education requirement for this program?
• How much money do I need to resettle?

What Are The Minimum Eligibility Requirements?

Similar to the other Express Entry programs, the Federal Skilled Trades program uses the same concept of minimum eligibility requirements. Therefore, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements to be eligible for permanent residence.

Language Proficiency: What Is The Required Benchmark?

There are 2 benchmarks that applicants must meet to qualify. They slightly differ from other Express Entry program permanent residence streams. However, these benchmarks are the lowest of all the permanent residence categories of the Express Entry program.

Applicants must submit a proof of language test taken within 2 years of the date of application for permanent residence. The benchmarks are as follow:

• For speaking and listening: the benchmark is 5.
• For reading and writing: the benchmark is 4.

The Federal Skilled Trades program is focused on the technical skills that applicants possess rather than higher general eligibility requirements like the other Express Entry programs.

Skilled Trades Work Experience

Applicants must possess at least 2 years of full-time work experience or an equivalent amount of part-time work experience within the 5 years before the date of their application for permanent residence.

Skilled trades occupations are organized under 4 major groups and 2 minor groups. For more information on the different groups and to assess whether or not your past work experience can qualify you for this Express Entry program, visit the National Occupational Classification website. The groups are as follows.

Employment under one of the following groups will qualify for your Express Entry score and your permanent residence application.

Major Group 72: this group includes industrial, electrical, and other construction trade professions;

Major Group 73: occupations relating to maintenance, machinery, and equipment operation trades;

Major Group 82: including professions such as supervisors and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture, and other related production;

Major Group 92: processing, manufacturing, and utility supervisors and central control operators

Minor Group 632: for skilled chefs and cooks

Minor Group 633: including jobs such as butchers, meat cutters, and bakers.

It is essential for applicants to have gained work experience after qualifying to practice the profession in their country of residence. So, for example, a plumber would have to demonstrate that he is qualified to practice this profession.

Education

The Federal Skilled Trades program does not have an education requirement. Which means applicants from all educational backgrounds can apply as long as they meet the minimum eligibility requirements. As previously discussed, applicants may need to show accreditation, training, or skill certificate to prove they are authorized to perform the profession’s duties.

Suppose you have completed post-secondary or higher education previously. In that case, you can still use your higher credentials to gain more points in the Express Entry scoring system and receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence.

Resettlement Funds Requirements

The following must be met to satisfy the Government of Canada that applicants can effectively resettle to Canada and support themselves and their family members.

• Arranged employment: an offer of employment from a Canadian employer at the time of application and that must still be valid at the time of visa issuance;

Or,

• Resettlement funds: the applicants have sufficient funds to support themselves and their dependents in Canada for the first six months after they arrive.

The resettlement funds requirements are calculated based on the applicant’s family size. You must meet the funds’ requirements before applying for permanent residence, and you must maintain them throughout the application process.

So, if you are a skilled professional in one of the groups of professionals covered above, this immigration program is right for you! You and your family can be on your way to a new life in Canada by applying for the Federal Skilled Trades program.

Let Phan Immigration Immigration accompany you on your journey to Canada. Use our self-assessment tool to see if you qualify.

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The Canadian Experience Class Program

Author: Yan Desjardins, Founder & Executive Director

Who Can Apply For The Canadian Experience Class Program?

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is one of the permanent residence streams under the Express Entry program. Read our blog on Express Entry for more information.

The program allows foreign nationals to immigrate to Canada under the skilled category. The Canadian Experience Class is opened to the following individuals.

• International students who graduated and worked under the Post Graduation Work Permit program in Canada;
• Temporary Foreign Workers who are working in Canada and currently meet the conditions to work in Canada;
• Individuals who have previously worked in Canada on a valid work permit.

Candidates who have an active Express Entry Program profile and meet the minimum Express Entry score are most likely to receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements: How Can I Qualify?

Like the other Express Entry program permanent residence streams, the Canadian Experience Class program is based on three minimum requirements. Therefore, applicants must meet all minimum requirements to qualify for permanent residence.

Canadian Work Experience

To qualify under the CEC program, applicants must demonstrate that they have worked in Canada within 3 years preceding the application for permanent residence. In addition, the work experience must fall within the following categories of the National Occupation Classification list.

• Skill type 0 = Management jobs.
• Skill type A = Professional jobs that require a university or college degree.
• Skill type B = Technical or skilled trades jobs

Your Canadian work experience must also meet the following requirements:

• One full-time job for at least 12 months. Full-time employment equivalent to 30 hours/week or 1560 hours.
• A combination of part-time work of a maximum of 24 months. For example, 15 hours/week for 24 months or 1560 hours required.
• Full-time employment at more than one job. This means working multiple jobs that amount to 30 hours/week or 1560 hours.

Legal Status In Canada

The above Canadian work experience requirements must have been obtained while meeting the conditions to work in Canada. In other words, this means the applicant must have held a valid work permit for the entire duration of the work experience.

Education

The Canadian Experience Class does not have an education requirement. This means that applicants can qualify regardless of their educational background and can apply as long as they meet the minimum eligibility requirements.

Applicants can still use their higher education credentials to get more Express Entry scoring points.

How To Apply for The Canadian Experience Class

Suppose you are looking at immigrating to Canada under the skilled categories such as the Canadian Experience Class. In that case, you will first need to create a profile under the Express Entry Program and establish your Express Entry score.

Once you receive your invitation to apply for permanent residence, you can submit all the documents using your online profile.

If you would like to know if you qualify for the Canadian Experience Class or any other Canadian immigration programs, use our self-assessment tool and receive a free assessment.