In one sentence
BC’s entrepreneur immigration has Base and Regional categories; it usually takes about four years from registration to PR, and you must run the business yourself and meet a performance agreement.
Who it suits
- People with business experience willing to run a business themselves
- Base: CAD 600,000 net worth and a CAD 200,000 investment
- Regional: CAD 300,000 net worth and CAD 100,000
- Families who like BC’s lifestyle
Who it may not suit
- People not planning to run the business themselves
- Anyone wanting PR quickly
- Those who can’t prove net worth
Main requirements
- Base: personal net worth of at least CAD 600,000, investment of at least CAD 200,000 and ownership of at least one-third of the business
- Regional: personal net worth of at least CAD 300,000, investment of at least CAD 100,000 and a community referral
- Relevant experience as a business owner or senior manager
- Language at CLB 4 or above
- Active, day-to-day management of the business
Timeline
| Step | Timing | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Assessment and exploratory visit | 1–3 months | We assess your eligibility and choose the category and type of business; the Regional category needs a community referral first. |
| Registration and application | By invitation | Register your interest and apply once invited on the strength of your score. |
| Work permit and running the business | Per your performance agreement | Sign a performance agreement, then start or buy a business in British Columbia on a work permit and run it yourself. |
| Nomination and permanent residence | About 4 years in total | Submit your final report, receive a provincial nomination and apply for permanent residence. It usually takes about four years from registration to permanent residence. |
Common myths
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| Investing means PR | You must run the business and meet the agreement before nomination. |
| The Regional category can be in Vancouver | It must be in a participating community outside Greater Vancouver. |
| Performance targets are a formality | They must be realistic; missing them affects nomination. |
Checklist before you apply
- Confirm your net worth and source of funds
- Choose Base or Regional
- For Regional, arrange a community visit
- Set realistic business targets
Our advice
This is an operating programme: allow about four years and plan the business around conservative, realistic targets.
Every family’s background and timeline is different — book a free consultation and a consultant will assess your situation.
Learn more: British Columbia BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration