Obtaining a Canadian Investment Visa

Canada, a vast and sparsely populated country in the Americas, has strategically expanded its economic opportunities through meticulous planning. Rich in oil, gas, and natural mineral resources, Canada has implemented various programs over recent decades to address its population shortage and attract immigrants and skilled professionals for residency and investment. One such initiative is the investment visa or residency through startup programs.

By obtaining an investment visa, individuals can immigrate to Canada by launching a startup, establishing a company, or participating in provincial programs. With adherence to specific conditions—outlined below—they can secure permanent residency in the country. The primary goal of this program is to attract experienced managers and bolster the economy by creating job opportunities.

The investment visa is one of the pathways provided by the Canadian government for immigrants, requiring a series of steps to verify an applicant’s eligibility. Through this route, investors can not only develop their businesses in a secure environment but also obtain permanent residency for themselves and their families. The minimum required investment ranges from CAD 100,000 to CAD 350,000, varying by the chosen province. Upon meeting the conditions, applicants are invited to a two-year work residency, during which continuous presence in the designated investment province is mandatory—failure to comply may result in visa cancellation.

This article will explore the methods for obtaining an investment visa, along with its advantages and disadvantages.

Reasons for Canada’s Appeal as an Investment Destination

Canada is regarded as one of the top destinations for investment and business development due to its administrative transparency, efficient banking system, low inflation, and high investment security. Furthermore, its close trade ties with the United States ensure high profitability and economic growth, encouraging skilled managers to pursue investment visas.

Conditions for Investing in Canada

Successful investment hinges on low costs and high returns. Canada offers a balanced competitive market and a favorable tax environment, making it an ideal setting for such endeavors. A standout feature of this approach is the potential to secure permanent residency. Various investment methods exist, some of which lead to permanent residency, as detailed below.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Investment Visa

Advantages:

• Ownership Security: With a high degree of economic stability and a low risk of asset seizure (approximately 1%), this method stands out.
• Transparency: Strong control over corruption and a transparent economic system (with corruption levels at about 1.92% in 2017) enhance the visa’s appeal.
• Robust Oversight: Strict government supervision of the private sector prevents mismanagement and abuse.
• Quality of Life: Free education for children, universal healthcare, and job opportunities for family members are notable perks.

Disadvantages:

• Stringent Regulations: Company registration is sometimes subject to rigorous government oversight.
• Distance: The significant distance and time difference from Iran pose challenges for Iranian investors.

Investment Methods

Company Registration: The first step involves submitting a provincially approved business plan. This method alone does not grant permanent residency unless tied to a provincial program that generates jobs for Canadians.

Provincial Investment: This is a guaranteed pathway for managers aiming to expand their businesses in a specific province and obtain permanent residency. Eligibility is assessed based on education, managerial experience, language proficiency, and capital (minimum CAD 1.2 million). The application process takes 1–2 years, with each province offering unique programs.

Provincial Options:

• Alberta: The Self-Employed Farmer Program targets individuals with farming experience seeking permanent residency in the province.
• Ontario: The ONIP Entrepreneur Stream supports starting or purchasing a business, offering permanent residency after a temporary work permit via an Expression of Interest (EOI) invitation.
• Saskatchewan:
  • Farmer Program for purchasing and managing a farm.
  • Entrepreneur Program for establishing or partnering in a business.
  • International Graduate Entrepreneur Program for launching a business post-graduation.
• Quebec:
  • Self-Employment Program for eligible individuals.
  • CAD 1.2 million investment (direct or via financial institutions) for permanent residency.

Startup: This method requires presenting an innovative business plan with economic growth potential. Eligibility is scored based on experience, capital, and language skills. After two years, a performance report is submitted.

Self-Employment

Self-employed individuals must demonstrate their ability to start a business and sustain themselves. Ideal for those with a proven track record in cultural, athletic, or agricultural fields, this pathway offers permanent residency with a viable business proposal. A minimum of two years of managerial experience within the past five years is required.
Scoring Criteria:

• Education: 25 points
• Experience: 35 points
• Language: 24 points
• Age: 10 points
• Adaptability: 6 points
  Minimum Score: 35 points
  Eligible Occupations: Writers, artists, musicians, painters, designers, etc.
  Financial Requirement: No fixed amount, but sufficient funds must be demonstrated.

Entrepreneurial Startup

Canada supports startups with tax incentives, loans, and subsidies. A minimum of five individuals can apply as owners (each with at least 10% voting rights), provided they secure support from a Canadian organization. Language proficiency and financial capacity are also essential.