Canada is one of the top destinations for business immigrants due to its stable economy, business-friendly policies, and high quality of life. Business immigration programs allow foreign entrepreneurs, investors, and self-employed individuals to obtain residency while also enabling their families to join them.
If you are considering moving to Canada on a business immigration visa, this guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to bring your family along, covering eligibility requirements, application procedures, and long-term residency pathways.
Understanding Canada’s Business Immigration Visa Options
Canada offers several immigration pathways for business-minded individuals seeking to establish or invest in the country. The most common options include:
1. Start-Up Visa Program
- Designed for entrepreneurs who want to establish an innovative business in Canada.
- Requires a letter of support from a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor, or business incubator).
- Offers direct permanent residency for the applicant and their dependents.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Entrepreneur Streams
- Various provinces have their own entrepreneur and investor programs.
- Requires applicants to start, invest in, or acquire a business within the province.
- Some programs offer temporary work permits first, leading to permanent residency.
3. Quebec Entrepreneur and Investor Program
- Quebec has unique business immigration programs for high-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs.
- The Quebec Investor Program requires a passive investment of CAD 1.2 million.
- The Quebec Entrepreneur Program is for individuals starting or acquiring a business in Quebec.
4. Self-Employed Person Program
- For individuals with experience in cultural or athletic activities who can contribute to Canadian society.
- Applicants must demonstrate relevant experience and a viable plan for self-employment in Canada.
5. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa
- For executives, senior managers, or specialized employees being transferred to a Canadian branch of their foreign company.
- Provides a temporary work permit with a pathway to permanent residency through Express Entry.
Each of these programs allows business immigrants to bring their families, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
Who Qualifies as a Dependent?
Under Canadian immigration law, the following family members qualify as dependents:
- Spouse or Common-Law Partner – Legally married or in a common-law relationship for at least 12 months.
- Children Under 22 Years Old – Must be unmarried and financially dependent on the parent.
- Children Over 22 – Can qualify if they have a physical or mental condition preventing financial independence.
Step-by-Step Process to Bring Your Family to Canada
Step 1: Choose the Right Business Immigration Program
The first step in bringing your family to Canada is selecting the most suitable business immigration pathway. Factors to consider include:
- Investment requirements (e.g., Start-Up Visa vs. Quebec Investor Program).
- Business experience requirements (e.g., Entrepreneur PNP vs. Self-Employed Program).
- Processing times and permanent residency pathways.
If the selected program requires a temporary work permit, you may need to apply for permanent residency separately after establishing your business.
Step 2: Include Family Members in Your Application
When applying for a business visa, ensure that your spouse and children are included in the initial application. This ensures they receive permanent residency or work/study permits at the same time as you.
- Start-Up Visa Program applicants can apply for permanent residency for their entire family.
- Entrepreneur PNP applicants must first secure a work permit, and their family can apply for dependent visas.
Step 3: Meet the Financial Requirements
You must demonstrate sufficient funds to support your family while establishing your business in Canada.
- The minimum proof of funds requirement varies by family size.
- You must show funds in liquid assets (e.g., bank statements, investments, real estate).
Example of required settlement funds (2024 rates):
| Family Size | Minimum Required Funds |
|---|---|
| 1 person | CAD 13,757 |
| 2 people | CAD 17,127 |
| 3 people | CAD 21,055 |
| 4 people | CAD 25,564 |
| 5 people | CAD 28,994 |
| 6 people | CAD 32,700 |
| 7+ people | CAD 36,407 |
These funds must be readily available and transferable to Canada.
Step 4: Submit the Application for Your Business Visa
You can submit your business immigration application online through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Documents Required for the Application
- Valid passport for all family members.
- Marriage certificate (for spouses) or proof of common-law relationship.
- Birth certificates for dependent children.
- Business plan outlining how the business will contribute to the Canadian economy.
- Letter of support from a designated organization (for Start-Up Visa applicants).
- Financial statements proving available funds.
- Medical examination reports (for all applicants).
- Police clearance certificate (to prove good character).
After submission, applicants receive an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) and a file number for tracking the progress.
Step 5: Apply for Work and Study Permits for Your Family
Once the business visa is approved, family members may apply for:
- Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) – Allows spouses to work for any employer in Canada.
- Study Permit for Children – Allows children to enroll in Canadian schools or universities.
These permits enable your family to live, work, and study while you establish your business.
Pathway to Permanent Residency for Your Family
Most business immigration programs lead to permanent residency (PR), granting long-term settlement rights in Canada.
How to Apply for PR for Family Members
- Start-Up Visa holders automatically receive PR for their family.
- PNP Entrepreneur Visa holders must meet business performance criteria before applying for PR.
- Quebec Business Visa holders must fulfill the province’s residency conditions before transitioning to PR.
Once granted PR, family members receive:
- Access to Canada’s healthcare system (Medicare).
- The right to work and study anywhere in Canada.
- Eligibility for citizenship after three years of residency.
Cost Breakdown for Bringing Your Family to Canada
Business Immigration Visa Fees (2024 rates):
| Application Type | Processing Fee (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Business Visa (Main Applicant) | 2,140 |
| Spouse’s PR Application | 1,365 |
| Dependent Child PR Application | 230 per child |
| Work Permit (for spouse) | 255 |
| Study Permit (for children) | 150 per child |
Additional Costs:
- Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 per person (CAD 170 for a family).
- Medical Examination: CAD 250-350 per person.
- Police Clearance: Varies by country.
Benefits of Bringing Your Family to Canada on a Business Visa
- Unrestricted Work Rights for Spouses – Spouses can work anywhere in Canada.
- World-Class Education for Children – Children can access free public schools or top private institutions.
- Universal Healthcare – PR holders receive government-funded medical care.
- Pathway to Citizenship – Family members can apply for Canadian citizenship after fulfilling residency requirements.
- Access to a Safe, High-Quality Lifestyle – Canada offers a stable and welcoming environment for business owners and their families.
Conclusion
Bringing your family to Canada on a business immigration visa is a life-changing decision that offers financial security, stability, and long-term growth opportunities. Whether applying through the Start-Up Visa, Provincial Nominee Entrepreneur Programs, or Self-Employed Person Visa, business immigrants can secure a better future for their families while contributing to Canada’s economy.
By carefully selecting the right program, preparing the necessary documents, and following residency pathways, high-net-worth entrepreneurs can successfully establish their business in Canada while ensuring their loved ones enjoy the country’s exceptional quality of life.