Canadian Business Immigration

While Canada welcomes people who are entrepreneurs the process is not simple and straightforward, the process can be difficult and time-consuming. Can you do it yourself with no help from Lawyers or Consultants? Not likely unless you are very familiar with Canadian immigration law and procedures and how business is conducted in Canada.  

What can you do? For a start, you should consider an exploratory visit to Canada. It will help if you are relatively fluent in English or in the case of the province of Quebec you can communicate in French.  

If you are in retail or commercial trade, it is best to do some research on the internet, and when you have narrowed your search down consult a lawyer or agent who has some experience in acquiring businesses or establishing a new one. There are many businesses for sale in Canada but a word of caution. Do not invest any money in a business or make a down payment on any purchase until you have been provisionally approved for a work permit or permanent resident status. That will mean that you are in good health and have no criminal record. Some things that you may deem to be inconsequential like driving under the influence of alcohol or shoplifting and any number of offenses may cause you to be inadmissible to Canada. Similarly, if you or your family member has a serious medical condition you may not be allowed to move to Canada. If none of the foregoing applies to you, I would recommend consulting with either a lawyer or immigration consultant on the ground in Canada who has experience in dealing with persons such as yourself.  

One issue that you should be aware of is processing times for immigration matters. Applying for a Temporary Work Permit to start a new business or taking over an existing business can take months depending on the immigration office. If you are applying for Permanent Resident status, it can take years depending on the country in which you live. 

Plan ahead!!!!