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What are the main differences between investors, entrepreneurs and self-employed persons?

Note: As of July 1, 2012, CIC has temporarily stopped accepting applications for the federal Investor Program to focus on processing the applications we already have while the program is under review. This pause on new applications will continue until further notice. It does not apply to the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program.

Investors must invest C$800,000 in Canada, but are not required to manage their investment on a daily basis once they arrive.

Note: CIC has temporarily stopped accepting applications for the federal entrepreneur program. Only applications received before July 1, 2011, will be processed. This suspension will continue until further notice.

Entrepreneurs must invest in and help manage a business in Canada. The business must create at least one job for someone other than a member of their immediate family. After they arrive in Canada, they must be able to show that they comply with these conditions, if Citizenship and Immigration Canada asks.

Self-employed persons are selected based on their intention and ability to create a job for themselves. They must:

• work in a cultural field,
• work in an athletic occupation or
• buy and manage a farm in Canada.

The start-up visa enables immigrant entrepreneurs to launch innovative companies that will create jobs in Canada and, eventually, compete globally. The Start-Up Visa Program links immigrant entrepreneurs with private sector groups in Canada that have experience working with start-ups and can provide essential resources.

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