Northwest Territories Immigration Nominee Program – Entrepreneur Stream

The Northwest Territories Immigration Nominee Program (NWTINP) Entrepreneur Stream provides business owners with the opportunity to establish or acquire a business in the Northwest Territories (NWT) while pursuing permanent residency in Canada.

Application Process

Prospective applicants begin by completing a self-assessment to determine their eligibility for the program. Qualified candidates then submit their complete application for territorial review.

While the program accepts applications across all industry sectors, priority consideration is given to business proposals that:

• Introduce innovative products or services to the NWT market, or
• Demonstrate substantial economic benefits for the territory

Both new business ventures and existing business acquisitions are eligible, provided they show clear potential to benefit the NWT economy.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

Investment Requirements:

• Meet the minimum equity investment threshold (varies by business location)
• Fulfill the personal net worth requirement (amount depends on business location)

Financial Commitment:

• Provide a refundable deposit held in trust, released upon meeting Business Performance Agreement terms

Additional Requirements:

• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the NWT economy
• Show proof of sufficient language proficiency
• Possess relevant education and experience to successfully implement the business plan

Nomination Process

After approval of the business plan by territorial officials, candidates may receive:

• Temporary residence status to establish their business
• Eligibility for permanent residency nomination upon fulfilling all Business Performance Agreement requirements

Federal Considerations

Important notes regarding the nomination process:

• NWT nomination does not guarantee permanent residency approval
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts final assessments including:
  • Criminal and medical admissibility checks
  • Verification of compliance with immigration regulations
• Applications may be denied if federal requirements aren’t met

This program offers qualified entrepreneurs a valuable pathway to contribute to the Northwest Territories’ economic development while establishing their Canadian future.