Top Investor Visa Options in Canada for Entrepreneurs and High Net-Worth Immigrants

March 27, 2025

Introduction

The idea of a U.S.-style “Gold Card” visa has generated global interest among investors and entrepreneurs seeking fast-track residency opportunities. While Canada does not have a formal “Gold Card” visa, the country offers a wide range of programs designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs, experienced business owners, and high-net-worth individuals.

Canada’s investment-focused immigration pathways are structured to support economic growth, job creation, and long-term integration. This guide provides a clear, updated overview of the main investor and entrepreneur immigration programs available in Canada in 2025.

Understanding Canada’s Investment Immigration System

Unlike some countries that offer direct residency through financial contributions, Canada uses a performance-based model focused on business creation, innovation, and economic participation.

Canada’s system includes:

Federal programs (e.g., Start-up Visa)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) with entrepreneur or business streams
Specialized pathways for business owners, self-employed individuals, and intra-company transferees

Each pathway includes specific eligibility requirements related to investment, business experience, language proficiency, and economic contribution.

1. Federal Start-Up Visa Program (SUV)

The Start-Up Visa Program is one of Canada’s best-known federal programs for entrepreneurs.

Who It’s For

Innovative entrepreneurs who want to establish a business in Canada with global growth potential.

Key Eligibility Criteria

Support from a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator)
Meeting language requirements
Demonstrating adequate settlement funds
Creating a qualifying business that meets program criteria

Why It’s Popular

The SUV program provides a direct pathway to permanent residence, making it a strong option for founders who can secure backing from designated organizations.

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Entrepreneur Streams

Many provinces operate Entrepreneur or Business Immigration Streams under their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These pathways allow provinces to select entrepreneurs who will contribute to local economic priorities.

Examples of Popular Provincial Streams

British Columbia – Entrepreneur Immigration Stream

Typically requires:

Minimum net worth (varies by region)
Business establishment or purchase
Job creation plan
Active management of the business

Ontario – Entrepreneur Stream

Designed for:

Experienced business owners or senior managers
Those willing to invest in or establish a business in Ontario

Other provinces offering business immigration streams include:

Manitoba
Saskatchewan
Nova Scotia
New Brunswick
Prince Edward Island

General Requirements Across Provinces

Minimum net worth
Eligible investment amount
Business plan
Experience in ownership or senior management
Job creation targets

3. Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP)

Although currently paused, the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program has historically been a significant option for high-net-worth applicants.

Traditional Requirements

Minimum net worth: approx. CAD $2 million
Investment: approx. CAD $1.2 million for five years (refundable)
Management experience

Updates to QIIP are expected, but applicants must await official program reopening before applying.

4. Owner–Operator LMIA Pathway

The Owner–Operator LMIA Pathway may be suitable for entrepreneurs who want to establish or purchase a Canadian business and actively manage it.

How It Works

Applicant purchases or creates a business
Demonstrates ability to manage and operate the business
Applies for a work permit via the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process

Benefits

Work experience gained in Canada can support later applications for permanent residence (such as through Express Entry).

5. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Work Permit

Ideal for executives, senior managers, or specialized knowledge workers transferring from a foreign company to a Canadian branch or subsidiary.

Eligibility Highlights

The applicant works for a multinational enterprise
The Canadian business must have a qualifying relationship (parent, branch, subsidiary, affiliate)

Permanent Residence Potential

After gaining Canadian work experience, ICT workers may become eligible for permanent residence under federal economic programs.

6. Self-Employed Persons Program

This federal program is for individuals with exceptional ability in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management.

Requirements

Relevant self-employment experience
Ability to make a “significant contribution” to Canada’s cultural or athletic landscape

Who Commonly Qualifies

Artists
Athletes
Writers
Performers
Cultural professionals

Comparing Canada’s Programs to the U.S. “Gold Card” Concept

While the proposed U.S. “Gold Card” visa emphasizes rapid residency through investment, Canada’s model focuses on:

Long-term economic contribution
Innovation
Job creation
Business management
Integration into the Canadian economy

Although Canada does not use the term “Gold Card,” the available immigration pathways offer substantial opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors looking to build a future in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Canada offer a “Gold Card” visa?

No. Canada does not have a visa officially labeled as a “Gold Card.” However, several immigration programs provide permanent residence pathways for investors and entrepreneurs.

What is the minimum investment required?

It varies by program:

SUV requires investment support from a designated organization (amounts vary).
PNP entrepreneur streams have province-specific net-worth and investment thresholds.
QIIP historically required a CAD $1.2 million investment.

Can these programs lead to permanent residence?

Yes. Many of the investor and entrepreneur programs include or lead to pathways for permanent residence.

How do I choose the best program?

Program suitability depends on:

Your business experience
Investment capacity
Language skills
Business goals
Preferred province or region

Conclusion

Although Canada does not offer a visa identical to the U.S. “Gold Card,” the country provides a diverse range of immigration pathways for investors, innovators, and entrepreneurs. Whether through the Start-Up Visa, provincial entrepreneur streams, intra-company transfers, or other programs, applicants have multiple ways to contribute to Canada’s economy and build a long-term future here.

For personalized guidance tailored to your situation, you may contact a licensed lawyer at Sohi Law Group.

Shadi