Immigration to Nova Scotia for Entrepreneurs
Candidates who want to start or buy a business in the province can immigrate through the Entrepreneur stream.
The Entrepreneur Stream of Nova Scotia's Provincial Program allows people who want to start a business in the province to obtain permanent residence.
Requirements
To be eligible for immigration through the Entrepreneur Stream, you must meet the following requirements:
- be at least 21 years old;
- intend to live in the province while owning and actively managing a business;
- have personal net worth and investment funds:
- net worth of at least CAD $600,000 and invest at least CAD $150,000 if the business is planned in Halifax and its suburbs;
- net worth of at least CAD $400,000 and invest at least CAD $100,000 if the business is planned outside Halifax and its suburbs;
- have relevant work experience in the past 10 years:
- 3 years as a business owner with at least 33.33% ownership in the company;
- or 5 years in a senior management position;
- demonstrate English or French language proficiency at CLB level 5 (intermediate level).
How to Apply
If you're interested in immigrating through the Entrepreneur Stream, you can create an account in the provincial "Expression of Interest" system. The province evaluates candidates based on criteria such as language proficiency, education, business management experience, age, net worth, adaptability, and more.
Successful candidates receive invitations. After that, you must travel to Nova Scotia and start your business before you can apply for permanent residence.
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To learn about other streams of Nova Scotia's Provincial Program, check out the article "Immigration to Nova Scotia — Canada's Provincial Program".
