New Brunswick Business Immigration Program: A Pathway to Permanent Residency
New Brunswick’s Business Immigration Program aims to attract and nominate skilled business professionals from around the world to own and actively manage businesses that contribute to the economy of the province. The process begins with submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI). Candidates are evaluated based on specific criteria and assigned a score. While the minimum required score is 50 points, only the highest-ranking applicants are invited to apply for the program.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for New Brunswick’s Business Applicant Program, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Be between 22 and 55 years old.
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrate sufficient proficiency in English and/or French to manage a business. Proof may include an IELTS test taken within the past two years.
- Education: Hold at least a high school diploma.
- Commitment to New Brunswick:
- Demonstrate an intent to live in New Brunswick and actively operate a business within the province.
- Show an understanding of New Brunswick’s business climate.
- Business Experience: Have at least three years of ownership or senior management experience within the last five years.
- Financial Requirements:
- Have a minimum net worth of $300,000 CAD, verified through documentation.
- Commit to a minimum investment of $125,000 CAD in a business.
- Provide evidence of the ability to make a $75,000 CAD refundable deposit, as outlined in the province’s Deposit Agreement. This deposit is refunded if the applicant meets the program’s requirements.
Application Process
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI and await selection. Only candidates with top scores are invited to apply for the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP).
- Exploratory Visit and Interview: If invited, candidates must schedule a visit to New Brunswick, participate in an in-person interview, and submit a detailed business plan outlining their proposed venture.
- Nomination and Deposit Agreement: If approved, the candidate and the province will sign a Deposit Agreement. The nominee can then apply to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residency.
Key Points
- Meeting the minimum score of 50 does not guarantee an invitation; only the highest-ranked candidates are selected.
- A clear understanding of the local business environment and a solid business plan are critical for success.
- The refundable $75,000 deposit ensures the applicant meets the province’s business and settlement requirements.
New Brunswick’s Business Immigration Program offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to establish themselves in Canada while contributing to the growth and development of the province’s economy.