Canada Citizenship by Investment – How To Get
You might be searching for “Canada Citizenship by Investment” if you’re considering getting Canadian citizenship and having the money to make a sizable investment. First off, unlike some other countries, it doesn’t offer formal citizenship for investment programs. Typically, to become a citizen of Canada, one must be granted permanent residency, which must be maintained over time, along with additional conditions.
Various immigration pathways lead to permanent residency for talented workers, business owners, and investors who can boost the nation’s economy and social progress.
To be eligible for Canadian citizenship, a person must generally complete the eligibility requirements, prove their language skills if they are between the ages of 18 and 54, know Canada’s history, geography, economy, governments, laws, and symbols, and have a clean criminal background in their home country and any other countries of residence and remain in the country as a permanent resident for a specified period (usually at least 1,095 days within the five years immediately before the date of your application.
What are the alternatives to Buying Canadian Citizenship by Investment?
Although there is no Canada Citizenship by Investment option or a direct way to “buy” Canadian citizenship, the country offers many pathways for investors and businesspeople to obtain permanent residency, which can eventually lead to Canadian citizenship, each with its specific requirements. Let’s explore some of the popular programs:
1- Federal Start-Up Visa Program
While not a direct investment for a citizenship program, the Start-Up Visa program allows entrepreneurs with an innovative business plan to immigrate to Canada. To be eligible, you need to secure a support letter from a designated organization in Canada, such as a venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator. Once you establish your business in the country and meet the requirements, you can apply for permanent residency and Canada Citizenship by Investment.
2- Entrepreneur Immigration Streams (Provincial Nominee Programs)
If you have an intetion to actively manage a business in a particular province or region in Canada, Many Canadian provinces and territories have Entrepreneur Streams as part of their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). The eligibility and minimum investment for each province’s entrepreneur Stream differ.
3- Canada Self Employed Visa Program
For the people with experience in cultural or sports activities and motivation to be self-employed in the country and will substantially impact Canada’s artistic or athletic life, this program is for you to contribute to the Canadian economy and eventually obtain your Canada Citizenship by Investment.
4- Intra Company Transfer Canada (ICT)
A specific kind of visa (permit) known as an ICT (Intra-Company Transfer) work permit enables international corporations to move their executive, manager, or specialized knowledge worker to work in a foreign branch or subsidiary. This enables investor to work for thier company’s Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate, and may lead to canadian permanent residency.
5- C11 work permit
While not a traditional immigration program (Owner-Operator LMIA), this program enables you to buy an existing Canadian business or start a business in Canada and apply for a work permit as an owner-operator. By being actively involved in the company’s daily management and creating jobs for Canadians, you may be eligible for one of the permanent residency programs while in the country.
6- International Mobility Programs (IMP)
The USMCA provisions for American and Mexican business professionals are just one of the work licenses accessible to international businesspeople under IMP. Another IMP program meant to speed up the employment of qualified international workers by Canadian companies is the Global Talent Stream.
7- Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP)
QIIP has been suspended from 1 November 2019 until 1 April 2023 due to a change to program requirements. QIIP allows individuals with a high net worth to make a passive investment. To be eligible as an investor, you should have a net worth of a minimum of CAD 2 million and commit to investing CAD 1.2 million with a financial intermediary. Successful applicants and their families can obtain permanent residency in Canada. After obtaining permanent residency, individuals can apply for Canada Citizenship by Investment through the normal application process.
Required Documents to Obtain Canada Permanent Residency by Investment
To obtain permanent residency in Canada through investment, you must apply for one of the specific immigration programs designed for business investors and entrepreneurs, as listed above. Remember that program details and requirements may change, so always refer to the IRCC official websites for the most up-to-date information. Here are the general documents required for Canada Citizenship by Investment:
1. Personal Documents:
- Passport or travel document: A valid passport for you and your family.
- Birth certificates: Certificates for you, your spouse or common-law partner, and dependent children.
- Marriage certificate: If you are married or in a common-law partnership, you must provide the relevant documentation. Plus, for the proof of relation, you need your children’s birth certificate.
- Education Credentials Assessment (ECA): Depending on the program, you may need to provide educational diplomas, degrees, or certificates.
- Language Proficiency: Some business programs may require proof of language proficiency in English or French, such as IELTS or TEF scores
- Police Clearance Certificate: Police clearance certificates from all the countries where you have lived for more than six months may be required.
- Medical Examination: You and your family may need to undergo medical examinations by designated panel physicians.
- Photographs: Recent photo of you and your accompanying family members per the IRCC photo specifications.
2. Financial Documents:
- Proof of Net Worth: Documents that prove your net worth meets the program’s requirements (e.g., bank statements, real estate valuations, business registration and ownership documents, business annual income, tax return).
- Proof of Source of Funds: To demonstrate the legal source of your investment funds, such as business records, tax documents, and other financial records.
3. Investment Documents:
- Investment Agreement: Some program requires the required investment agreement with a financial intermediary and evidence of payment.
- Financing Agreement: If you use the financing option for your investment, include the relevant agreement and proof of payment.
4. Other Supporting Documents:
Any additional supporting documents required by the program, such as a resume, business plan, etc, as stipulated by the immigration authorities.
Minimum Requirements for Buying Canadian Citizenship
You cannot buy Canadian citizenship directly; instead, you must be considering your options. The only way to buy Canada Citizenship by Investment is by entering the country under one of the investment immigration schemes. Usually, acquiring Canadian citizenship requires completing several steps, including securing permanent status and fulfilling residency criteria. The following are key steps in obtaining Canadian citizenship:
1. Obtaining Permanent Residency
Acquiring Canadian permanent residency is a prerequisite for becoming a citizen. Numerous immigration schemes, including family sponsorship, work-based immigration, provincial nominee programs, and Express Entry, can help you achieve this. These programs have different prerequisites, including schooling, prior work experience, language skills, and more.
2. Meeting Residency Requirements
You must live in the country for a certain amount of time after obtaining permanent residency, usually at least 1,095 days in the five years before the date on which you apply for Canada Citizenship by Investment. Additional conditions must be met to be physically present in the country, such as time spent as a temporary resident (for example, when holding a work or study permit).
3. Language Proficiency
You must show that you have a sufficient command of French or English, the official languages of Canada, if you are applying between the ages of 18 and 54.
4. Knowledge of Canada
To be granted citizenship, you must pass an exam covering Canadian history, institutions, values, symbols, and the rights and obligations associated with it.
5. No Criminal Convictions
Your application for Canada Citizenship by Investment shouldn’t be impacted by any criminal convictions.
6. Filing Taxes
To be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship, you must have filed taxes for at least three of the five years, including the year before.
7. Revocation of Previous Citizenship
You might not be able to apply again if your prior Canadian citizenship was revoked.
It’s crucial to remember that the procedures and requirements for obtaining Canada Citizenship by Investment are subject to change at any time, based on your situation and the immigration program you choose to get permanent residence under.
How much does it cost to buy canadian citizenship?
Although Canada has investment-related immigration schemes, including the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP), such programs do not provide a direct route to citizenship in return for a particular investment. Instead, those who fulfill specific investment and other requirements are granted permanent residency.
Thus, the cost of becoming a citizen of Canada is determined by the charges for the subsequent procedures:
1. Obtaining Permanent Residency
You must apply via one of the immigration programs that are offered to become a permanent resident of Canada. These programs may have additional costs, such as application and processing fees and, in certain situations, an investment amount (as with the QIIP, for example).
2. Maintaining Permanent Residency
After obtaining permanent residency status, you must keep it by living in the country for a predetermined period, renewing your card when required, and fulfilling additional residency criteria. Maintaining your status as a permanent resident may come with costs.
3. Applying for Canadian Citizenship
After meeting the residency criteria, you can apply to become a citizen of Canada. The application has processing fees in addition to any costs for the knowledge exam and language tests.
It’s crucial to remember that the precise expenses related to these procedures may differ based on your situation, the immigration program you apply through, and any modifications to the fees and prerequisites implemented by the Canadian government. The precise expenses and procedures might have altered. Any claims or offers implying that it is simple to buy Canadian citizenship should be avoided as they may be false, fraudulent or misleading deceptive.
What are the Benefits of Canadian Citizenship?
As a citizen, you can live, work, and study wherever in Canada. Additionally, you have the flexibility to visit numerous countries without a visa. A solid social welfare system, first-rate healthcare, and fantastic educational possibilities for themselves and their children are also available to Canadian people. Additionally, voting in federal, provincial, and local elections is a democratic privilege that comes with being a citizen of Canada.
Since obtaining Canada Citizenship by Investment has several advantages, a lot of permanent residents of Canada want to become citizens. The following are a few noteworthy benefits of holding Canadian citizenship:
1. Full Mobility Rights
As a citizen, you enjoy unrestricted travel rights into and out of the country. Additionally, you can travel more conveniently by entering several countries with a visa on arrival or without one.
2. Protection from Deportation
Canadian nationals are often shielded against deportation. Canadian citizens are more protected. However, permanent residents may lose their status and be deported in some situations.
3. Access to All Jobs
Canadian citizenship may be required for some government positions and those in national security-related fields. You have unrestricted access to all job opportunities as a citizen.
4. Social Services
Residents of Canada are entitled to several social services, such as government-funded healthcare (Medicare) and other social programs.
5. Education Benefits
Canadian residents are eligible for scholarships and advantages for education that are exclusive to them.
6. Access to High-Level Security Clearance
Possession of a Canadian passport may be helpful if you wish to work in positions needing a high-security clearance.
7. Canadian Passport
Being a citizen entitles you to a Canadian passport, a highly valued travel document across the globe.
8. Family Sponsorship
Canadian citizens can expedite their loved ones’ arrival in Canada by sponsoring them for permanent status.
9. Rights and Freedoms
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which protects essential freedoms like the right to a fair trial, freedom of expression, and religion, is in place for you as a citizen of Canada.
10. Dual Citizenship:
Since Canada permits dual citizenship, obtaining Canadian citizenship does not always necessitate giving up your prior citizenship. Even though you are Canadian, you can keep your original citizenship.
11. Cultural and Social Integration
Canadians tend to feel more deeply a part of their nation, which can contribute to a higher level of social and cultural integration.
It’s crucial to remember that the advantages of holding Canadian citizenship could change over time and differ based on personal circumstances. Consult the IRCC official website for the most recent information and to determine your eligibility for Canada Citizenship by Investment, or get advice from an experienced immigration lawyer.
Conclusion:
Remember that new programs may be launched, current ones may be adjusted, or there may be variations across programs regarding Canada’s immigration business regulations and programs.
Each program’s qualifying requirements, investment amounts, and processing dates may vary. To make sure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, it’s advised that you check with IRCC or a reputable immigration consultant (RCIC) who specializes in Canadian business immigration before applying for any investment immigration program.
Furthermore, stringent standards and conditions for Canada Citizenship by Investment and permanent residency may go beyond simple financial investments. Additional variables, such as language ability and length of stay in the country, may also be necessary.
Be cautious of any claims or offers suggesting you can easily purchase Canadian citizenship, as these may be scammer or misleading.
Frequently Asked Questions About Canada Citizenship by Investment
Can we buy Canadian Citizenship?
Unlike other countries, the Canadian government does not provide a straightforward program to buy citizenship through investments.
Which Canadian Business Immigration is the best?
The “best” program depends on factors like your investment budget, long-term business goals, preferred location, family considerations, and willingness to meet the program’s requirements. Canada offer various business immigration programs, and the choice depends on your priorities.
What are the ways to get Canadian Citizenship?
- By Birth: You are automatically Canadian if born in a Canadian territory.
- By Descent: If you were born outside of Canada to at least one parent who is a Canadian citizen, you can apply for Canadian nationality.
- By Adoption: You can be qualified for Canadian citizenship if a citizen of the country adopts you. There could be a variety of requirements and documentation for this process.
- By Naturalization: The viral route of applying for Canadian citizenship after obtaining permanent residency.
What are the eligibility requirements for Canadian Citizenship?
Canada for at least three of the five years immediately preceding your application. You will also need to pass a Canadian citizenship test.
What are the language requirements for Canadian citizenship?
You must provide documentation demonstrating your ability to speak and listen in English or French at the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) Level 4 or above if you are between 18 and 54.
What is the fastest way to get Canadian citizenship?
The quickest route to Canadian citizenship is naturalization, which necessitates fulfilling specific requirements and finishing the required procedures. There isn’t a direct fast-track option, but the general process entails living in the country for a certain amount of time, proving language competency, passing a knowledge test, paying income taxes, and obtaining permanent residence—typically through residence by investment programs or other immigration streams. After proving you meet all requirements, you and your family will be issued a second passport.
How much do I need to invest in Canada to get PR?
To be granted permanent residence in Canada, you are not required to invest a minimum amount of money. Certain investment programs, like the Start-Up Visa and the Graduate Entrepreneur Stream of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program, have a minimum investment requirement.
An alternative term for Canada Residence by Investment is Golden Visa Canada. You and your family can get Permanent Residence by investment in the nation, which would provide you and your family with Canada Citizenship by Investment after you’ve lived there for at least three years.
What is the minimum Investment Requirements for Canada Citizenship by Investment?
The Minimum Investment Requirements for Canada Citizenship by Investment may vary depending on various factors, including your position, family and business sizes, and the number of candidates. Purchasing Canadian citizenship begins at CAD $200,000. You are investing to start a new company, acquire an already-existing one in the country, or grow your firm from outside.
Therefore, you should consider additional costs when running a business in Canada. Your company’s success plays a big part in how your business immigration case turns out.
How Can Arnika Visa Assist You?
At Arnika Visa, we assist you in determining the best course of action for obtaining a TRV (Temporary Resident Visa) or PR (Permanent Residency) to fulfill your immigration eligibility. We handle everything, from filling out immigration forms to assisting you with supporting documents. To improve your chances of visa approval, we give you expert guidance and a personalized supporting documents checklist. Finally, we submit your application to IRCC Canada on your behalf as your authorized immigration consultant (RCIC).
Our recommendations, advice, and help will support your visa application procedure. Our RCIC and his trained expert staff are skilled at helping customers with visa applications. We will carefully review, draft, and complete Your visa application paperwork. We provide you with the following:
- Detailed advice on improving your chances of getting a Canada visa.
- Ensure you provide the IRCC visa officer with financial information to reassure them that you have the resources necessary to go to Canada, including that of your designated organization.
- We will review your travel history and supporting documentation to decide how to present your visa application and what to emphasize when you submit it.
If you follow our guidelines, you will have a greater chance of getting your visa approved than if you applied for it independently. The first step in learning how the RCIC can assist you is to fill out the free online self-assessment form, which asks for details about your career, education, and personal history.
Investor Visa Canada Related Articles
- Canada Investor Visa – Guide On All Business Immigration Programs
- Entrepreneur Immigration Canada – The Complete Guide To Apply
- British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration (BC PNP)
- Canada Citizenship by Investment – How To Get
- How to Buy Canadian Citizenship?
- Alberta Start Up Visa Program For Foreign Entrepreneurs
- Canada Self Employed Visa – The Ultimate Guide
- Immigrate To Canada After 40 – Your Complete Guide
- Business Visitor Visa Canada – The Ultimate Guide To Apply
If money isn’t a problem, what is the best and most assured way to obtain PR and citizenship in Canada? Canada startup visa or other Canada investor program? Thank you kindly!
Hi, one of the best and most reliable pathways to immigrate to Canada for permanent residency is the Alberta Startup Visa (if you have graduated in the last ten years) and, otherwise, I recommend the Entrepreneur Immigration Canada PNP (Canada’s provincial business immigration program), Reza Eslami.
Hi, I recently discovered that a long-time Canadian friend in Ontario, Toronto, is leaving his job to start a new business, which I own and run in my home country. He asked if I’d be interested in helping him get things up and running as a 50/50 partner. Hi is looking at a $100,000 to $150,000 investment and a full-time job. Is there any opportunity for me to immigrate to Canada and get PR and citizenship? The Entrepreneur Immigration Stream could be better for this scenario, but I would like your feedback. Thank you!
Exploring a business visitor visa is a wise approach for initial exploration. Collaborate with your friend, assess the business landscape, and consult immigration professionals to understand your options for permanent residency and citizenship in Canada. This strategic planning will enhance your chances for a successful and fulfilling immigration journey. Best wishes!
Hi, I’m a 51-year-old Pakistani citizen who has been doing business for over 22 years. I am currently running businesses in South Africa and France. I’m interested in establishing a business in Canada for Canada startup visa or PNP. How can you help me? Thanks
As an RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, R710241), we can provide legal assistance for your Canadian business aspirations. We will evaluate your eligibility for the Canadian business Immigration stream, guide you through the application process, and ensure compliance with immigration laws. Our expertise includes evaluating your business experience and creating a tailored strategy to enhance your chances of success in establishing a business in Canada. Please contact us to discuss your specific situation and create a customized plan to achieve your goals.
I have imported used automobiles, tires, and parts from Japan and sold them in Southern Africa and the UAE for 30 years. I’m interested in opening a dealership in Canada. Does it qualify for a startup visa application? How can you help me with it? Thanks
Your extensive experience in the automotive industry can be valuable for a start up visa application. We can provide comprehensive support, from preparing the necessary documentation to navigating the application process, ensuring all required documents are prepared, and highlighting the significant economic benefits your business could bring to Canada. Let’s schedule a consultation to discuss your plans and develop a strategy for a successful business visa application.
We are looking forward to assisting you!
I have my company in my home country and am looking to relocate to Canada as an entrepreneur; I have found that I am eligible for three Canadian immigration programs: a C11 work permit, an ICT work permit, and a Startup visa. Please compare the processing time for me with the positive and negative sides of each and tell me which is the best regarding the timeline to settle in Canada quickly.
The processing time for Canadian immigration business programs can vary based on individual circumstances and workload at immigration offices. However, generally speaking:
C11 Work Permit:
This is a standard work permit. Processing times are typically quicker, but it does not lead to permanent residency on its own. If your goal is a long-term settlement, this might not be the most direct route.
ICT Work Permit (Intra-Company Transfer): If you’re moving within your company, this could be faster than other options. However, it may not be suitable if you’re looking for permanent residency as it is a temporary permit.
Startup Visa:
While the processing time for a startup visa may be longer than the work permits, it offers a direct path to permanent residency. If settling in Canada permanently is your primary goal, the Startup Visa program provides a clear pathway for entrepreneurs.
Recommendation:
If your priority is a quick settlement with the possibility of long-term residency, the C11 or ICT work permits might be faster. However, if you are looking for a more stable and permanent solution, the Startup Visa is likely the better choice, providing a clear pathway to permanent residency in Canada.
I got an email from Immigration Canada concerning my investor visa application that I gave out misinformation about a compensated representative that I did not indicate in my application. I cannot travel to Canada with my current Canada startup visa work permit, which was revoked. Please advise me on what I can do.
Seek clarification from IRCC (Immigration Canada) on the reasons for revocation. Collect all relevant documents. Consider legal representation for guidance. Addressing this promptly and accurately is crucial.
I am the franchise owner and operation manager of one of the technical weekly newspapers in India. In addition to that, I have been active in two registered companies and institutions in my professional field for the past thirty years. As a professional novelist, authoring numerous books and publishing them by multiple private and public and private publishers for at least the past decade, I have made a living only through my writing income. In addition to my writing job, I have created a website where I posted first-hand historical documents. That site is also profitable, and I aim to make it bilingual soon. I am considering establishing a similar company in Canada according. Please guide me on the best way of business investor immigration to Canada with my conditions. Thanks
Consider applying for a British Columbia or another province entrepreneur immigration stream. Your extensive experience as a franchise owner, author, and website creator aligns well with the requirements. Develop a comprehensive business plan for your proposed company. Consult with a Canadian immigration lawyer or consultant for personalized guidance on the application process.
My application is on PNP business ownership of PEI was rejected, and I want to put the case in federal court to appeal this refusal. I don’t want to send a reconsideration letter for my application. I appreciate your guidance
You’re considering a federal court appeal for rejecting your PNP business ownership application for PEI. It’s crucial to understand the legal grounds and implications. Seek legal counsel specialized in Canadian immigration law for a comprehensive assessment and guidance through the appeals process.
I live in Newmarket, ON. I am a Canadian resident. I found your firm on the web and went through some of the helpful information you provided on your website. On behalf of my brother, I am writing to request an evaluation of the rejected business visitor visa. I have applied two times for a visa for him, and it has been denied. The first one was a weak application, although, with a similar application, my friend’s visas were granted. However, the second application was solid and supported with relevant documents. I highly appreciate your help in evaluating the applications and your valuable comments.
As an RCIC based in Canada, we can assist in evaluating your brother’s rejected business visitor visa applications. We will provide insights and devise strategies to enhance future applications. In solid application cases, we suggest appealing to the Canadian federal court. Keep in touch with us.
I am interested in applying for a business visa to explore citizenship options in Canada. I am currently a business owner in Oman and looking for a consultation.
As an RCIC, we out be delighted to assist with your business conference invitation and Canada TRV. Please fill the assessment form to connect us.