Reviewed October 9, 2026
Entrepreneur and Business Immigration Options
Operating a Canadian business and qualifying for immigration are separate matters. Assess the program and proposed role before committing to an investment.
Federal intake status
Start-Up Visa and Self-Employed Persons intake are paused. Do not rely on older promotion that treats them as open application routes. Existing applicants should follow the current IRCC instructions for their files.
Provincial and temporary pathways
Provincial entrepreneur programs have different experience, investment, business operation and selection requirements. Temporary work authorization is assessed separately. Business ownership does not automatically establish eligibility.
Business visitors
Attending meetings and qualifying international business activities may be a business visit when you do not directly enter the Canadian labour market. Managing or working for a Canadian business may require a work permit. Obtain business, tax and financial advice for the transaction itself.
Our Windsor team can review your circumstances and documents and explain the services available under an agreed retainer. Government authorities decide applications; eligibility, invitations and approval are not guaranteed.
Official information: Check the latest program requirements. Intake, fees and processing times can change.