The Quebec government selects business people, entrepreneurs and high net worth individuals wishing to become Canadian permanent residents and settle in the province.
Following the acceptance of their application, successful candidates will receive a Certificate of Selection of Quebec (CSQ) and will be able to submit a permanent residence application to the federal government.
Candidates may be eligible to apply under one of three business immigration categories:
Quebec Immigrant Investor Program
The Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP) is Canada’s only passive investment-based immigration program, meaning individuals are not required to establish or actively manage a business.
Applicants must have these qualifications:
- Language proficiency;
- Legally acquired personal net worth of $2 million;
- Two years of suitable management or business experience within the five years preceding the application;
- Mandatory residency in Quebec;
- Investment of $1 million into a passive government-guaranteed investment for a period of five years bearing no interest;
- Pay a non-refundable financial contribution of $200,000;
- Minimum high school diploma;
- Intention to settle in the province of Quebec.
Quebec Immigrant Entrepreneur Program
The Quebec Entrepreneur Program aims to recruit individuals who have the skills and experience to operate a business in the province.
The program operates under two streams:
- The first stream consists in creating a business in Quebec with support from a business accelerator, a business incubator or a university entrepreneurship center.
- The second stream consists of creating or buying an existing business, of which the entrepreneur must control at least 25% if it’s a new enterprise or at least 51% of an acquired enterprise.
The candidate must prove that they have legally acquired a net worth of $900,000, alone or with their spouse if applicable.
Quebec Immigrant Self-Employed Program
To qualify under the Quebec Self-Employed Program, applicants must meet the following conditions that differentiate them from the Quebec Skilled Worker Program:
- have two years of self-employed experience, in the profession or trade they intend to practice in Quebec;
- possess a personal net worth of $100,000 CAD, alone or with an accompanying spouse or common-law partner;
- register a start-up deposit of at least $50,000 if the self-employed candidate is based in the metropolitan area of Montreal, and $25,000 if the candidate is located outside of Montreal.
Additional requirements
All business candidates are also evaluated according to various selection factors and must obtain a minimum number of points based on their education, work experience, age, language proficiency, business plan and/or investment, ties to Quebec, etc.
Candidates must also demonstrate an intention to reside in Quebec.
Annual intake periods and numerical quotas are imposed by the immigration authorities. In the case of investors, territorial quotas are also applicable.
However, candidates who demonstrate that they have intermediate-advanced knowledge of French language (by presenting French test results of level B2 in speaking and listening) can apply at any time and are not subject to any cap.
FAQ: Quebec Business Immigration Programs
Quebec’s Business Immigration Program is designed to attract entrepreneurs, investors, and self-employed individuals who can contribute to the province’s economy. It offers pathways to obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), which is required to apply for permanent residence.
The program includes three main categories:
- Entrepreneur Program: For individuals looking to establish or acquire a business in Quebec.
- Investor Program: For those making a significant financial investment in Quebec’s economy (currently suspended).
- Self-Employed Worker Program: For professionals and tradespeople starting their own business.
While not mandatory, French proficiency is highly valued and can improve your chances of selection. Entrepreneurs may also be required to demonstrate their ability to integrate into Quebec’s predominantly French-speaking society.
The Entrepreneur Program targets individuals who plan to create or acquire a business in Quebec. Applicants must:
- Submit a detailed business plan.
- Meet a minimum investment threshold (varies by stream).
- Own and actively manage the business in Quebec.
This program is for skilled professionals or tradespeople who wish to work for themselves in Quebec. Applicants must:
- Meet minimum net asset requirements.
- Provide proof of relevant experience in their field.
- Demonstrate intent to settle and establish their business in Quebec.
A well-prepared business plan is crucial for programs like the Entrepreneur Program. It must outline your business objectives, projected finances, market analysis, and the potential economic benefits to Quebec. The plan demonstrates your commitment and ability to contribute to the province’s economy.
The CSQ is a document issued by Quebec confirming that you have been selected to immigrate to the province. Business immigrants must obtain a CSQ before applying for permanent residence through Canada’s federal government.
Required documents vary by program but generally include:
- A business plan or proof of self-employment.
- Financial statements and proof of net assets.
- Evidence of relevant experience.
- Identification and civil status documents.
Yes, Quebec encourages business immigrants to settle in regions outside Montreal to stimulate economic growth in smaller cities and rural areas. Some programs may offer incentives for regional business development.
Yes, your spouse and dependent children can accompany you. They may also receive permanent residence status if your application is approved. Ensure your family members meet federal admissibility requirements, such as medical and security checks.
