US Investor Visas vs Canadian Immigrant Investor Programs

When considering investment visas, most people think of the US E-2 or EB-5 visas. However, the investment programs offered by Canada, the United States’ northern neighbor, often go unnoticed. This is a missed opportunity. Canada has over 10 immigrant investor programs specifically tailored for entrepreneurs and business people who can contribute to its economy. The requirements for these Canadian programs are often similar to, if not less stringent than, their US counterparts. For example, to be eligible for the American E-2 visa, citizens of non-treaty countries like Israelis must hold additional citizenship from a treaty country. In contrast, Canadian immigrant investor programs are open to individuals of all nationalities, including Israelis. Additionally, while the US only offers the EB-5 as an immigrant investor visa leading to a green card, all Canadian immigrant investor programs ultimately grant permanent resident status (subject to approval).

Overview of Canadian Immigrant Investor Programs

One unique aspect of Canada’s immigration system is the authority given to individual provinces to design their own immigration programs. Alongside federal programs like Canada’s Start-up Visa, each province (excluding Quebec and Nunavut) offers its own pathways for entrepreneurs and investors seeking to establish and manage a business in Canada, with varying requirements. This article provides an overview of what to generally expect in these programs.

How Do the Programs Work?

It’s straightforward: you make an investment. You have the option to either purchase an existing business or establish a new one in Canada. The required investment amount varies by province, but the minimum generally starts at C$150,000, which is considerably lower than the US EB-5 visa’s minimum of $900,000. A business trip to Canada is expected, where you’ll assess your target location, the local competition, and the business you intend to purchase or invest in.

Creating a Business Plan

A crucial part of the process involves developing a viable business plan. This plan must include your intention to hire 1-2 full-time Canadian employees, although the exact number will depend on the province. (For comparison, the EB-5 visa requires creating at least 10 jobs.) You must also hold at least one-third ownership of the business and be actively involved in its day-to-day management. The business plan will be thoroughly reviewed by Canadian immigration authorities.

Proving Your Net Worth

All Canadian investment programs require applicants to prove their net worth. Minimum requirements range from C$250,000 to C$1.6 million, depending on the province and business location. For example, those looking to invest in a business in Toronto need a net worth of C$1.5 million, while investing in the Northwest Territories requires only C$250,000. This net worth doesn’t have to be entirely liquid; immovable assets can be included in your net worth calculation.

Demonstrating Language Proficiency

Like most Canadian immigration programs, proof of language skills is required. You must show at least an adequate level (level 4 proficiency) in English or French for daily activities. In Israel, the relevant English language test is the IELTS, which is one of the few accepted by Canadian immigration authorities. A full list of acceptable language test agencies can be found on the Government of Canada website.

Now that you have an overview of Canadian immigrant investor programs, you can begin exploring your investment opportunities in Canada.

For further details on Canadian immigrant investor programs, please contact us.

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