The closure has left many entrepreneurs waiting for a new targeted pilot that the federal government plans to introduce as a replacement. Until then, several existing pathways remain open for those willing to invest, start or operate businesses in Canada.
Provincial nominee streams take centre stage Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) entrepreneur streams are expected to be the primary option in 2026, according to a CIC News report. At present, nine provinces and territories run business, entrepreneur or investor-focused streams. These programmes usually require candidates to establish or operate a business on a work permit for a fixed period before they can receive a provincial nomination.
Applicants must meet specific business commitments set out in an agreement with the province. If the business fails or targets are not met before permanent residence is granted, the nomination can be withdrawn.
Alberta offers four entrepreneur streams, including options for international graduates, foreign graduates, rural entrepreneurs and farm owners. British Columbia runs a base stream, a regional stream for smaller communities and a strategic projects stream for foreign companies. Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Yukon and the Northwest Territories also offer business nomination pathways, each with its own net worth, experience and investment requirements.
Quebec business immigration options remain open Entrepreneurs planning to settle in Quebec continue to have access to three business immigration routes. These include an investor pathway for high-net-worth individuals, an entrepreneur pathway for those starting or taking over businesses, and a self-employed worker option.
All Quebec business programmes require applicants to meet French language standards, along with other eligibility conditions linked to experience, net worth and the nature of the business activity.
C-11 work permit for PR Another option for entrepreneurs is the C-11 work permit, also known as the “significant benefit” permit. This Labour Market Impact Assessment-exempt permit allows foreign nationals to start, purchase or operate a business in Canada if they can show it will provide a clear benefit to the country, such as job creation or economic growth.
Entrepreneurs often use the C-11 permit as a work-permit-first route, building their business and Canadian experience before applying for permanent residence through a provincial programme or other federal pathways that accept self-employment experience.
Immigration advisers say that while the closure of the Start-Up Visa programme removes a direct federal PR route, Canada still offers multiple alternatives for entrepreneurs who are prepared to meet provincial requirements or follow a phased immigration approach.