Business Visitor Visa: 

This visa is for those individuals who like to visit Canada for short-term business activities, such as attending conferences, meetings, or trade shows; negotiating contracts; or exploring new business opportunities. Business visitors typically do not create direct employment opportunities or generate income through Canadian sources during their stay.

Start-up Visa Program: 

The Start-up Visa Program is designed for entrepreneurs with unique business ideas and the possibility to create jobs and drive economic growth in Canada. To qualify, applicants must have the support of a designated organization (angel investor group, venture capital fund, or business incubator) and meet other eligibility criteria, including language proficiency and financial requirements.

Self-Employed Persons Program: 

This program is for individuals with relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics and must be interested in and able to make a substantial contribution to Canadian cultural or athletic life. The applicants need to demonstrate that they have the experience, intention, and capability to improve Canada’s economy in their respective fields.

Intra-Company Transfers: 

The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program enables multinational companies to transfer key personnel, such as executives, managers, and specialized knowledge workers, to their Canadian branches, subsidiaries, or affiliates. Business Visa application to Canada facilitates temporary entry of skilled foreign workers to support the operations and development of Canadian businesses.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): 

Several Canadian provinces and territories have their own immigration programs, including streams that are specifically customized to attract and keep foreign entrepreneurs and investors. Most of these programs often come with different eligibility criteria and application processes, allowing provinces to manage their specific economic and labor market requirements.

Investor Immigration Programs: 

Some of the provinces still provide immigration opportunities to investors through business visa applications to Canada as Canada’s federal investor immigration has been discontinued. Individuals can obtain permanent residency in Canada by making a significant investment in the province. To qualify for this program, an individual needs to showcase a high net worth with passive investment to the designated business venture or investment fund.  

Global Talent Stream (GTS): 

The Global Talent Stream is not a typical business visa but an advanced work permit program designed to assist Canadian employers in attracting highly skilled foreign workers from certain technology-related occupations. Eligible employers can hire foreign workers with specialized skills and experience more quickly through expedited processing of work permit applications. It is important to note that there are two categories under which your business could be eligible for GTS. In Category A, your business should be an innovative company referred by one of the stream’s designated referral partners if you need to hire a unique and specialized talent. To benefit from category B, you must hire highly skilled foreign workers as per the Global Talent Occupation list.  Refer below for a list of occupations eligible in Category B.  

Businesses considering business visa applications to Canada should carefully review the specific requirements and eligibility criteria of each visa program and any updates or changes to immigration policies and regulations.