IMMIGRATE TO QUEBEC THROUGH THE QUEBEC ENTREPRENEUR PROGRAM

The Quebec Entrepreneur Program targets immigrant entrepreneurs who are capable of starting a new business or purchasing and running an existing business in the province of Quebec.

• What is the Quebec Entrepreneur Program?
• What are the general requirements for the Quebec Entrepreneur Program?
• Stream 1: Innovative Business
• Stream 2: Starting a Business
• Stream 3: Business Acquisition

The Quebec Entrepreneur Program provides a pathway for immigrant entrepreneurs to create or acquire and operate a business in Quebec. Successful candidates can obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) and, after receiving the CSQ, apply for Canadian permanent residency with the federal government.

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old when you apply.
• Education: You need to have a diploma equivalent to at least a Quebec high school diploma, obtained prior to your application.
• French Proficiency: Your oral French skills should be at least at level 7 on the Quebec Scale. You must provide recent test results or diplomas recognized by the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration, issued within the two years before your application.
• Financial Support: You must be able to support yourself and your family for three months after receiving permanent resident status, including any Canadian citizen dependents.
• Business Activity: The business you intend to operate must not be involved in prohibited sectors.
• Values Certificate: You need to acquire a certificate demonstrating knowledge of democratic and Quebec values.

The Quebec Entrepreneur Program consists of three separate streams, each with its own specific eligibility criteria, in addition to the general requirements of the program.

Profile 1: New Business Venture

• Management Experience: Possess at least two years of experience in business management within the five years before your application, excluding certain sectors.
• Net Worth: Have a minimum net worth of CAD 600,000, which may be combined with your spouse’s assets.
• Investment: Establish the business either solo or with up to three partners.
• Business Plan: Provide a business plan with your application.
• Investment and Expenditure: Invest a minimum of CAD 300,000 in the Montreal metropolitan area or CAD 150,000 in other parts of Quebec to start or run your business.
• Equity Stake: Retain at least 25% of the business equity, which can be shared with your spouse and partners.

Profile 2: Existing Business

• Residency Requirement: Have lived in Quebec for at least two years under a work or study permit.
• Net Worth: Maintain a minimum net worth of CAD 300,000, excluding any recent gifts.
• Equity Stake: Hold at least 25% of the business equity, which can be shared with your spouse and partners.
• Business Plan: Submit a business plan that details your business project with your application.

Profile 1: Business Acquisition

• Previous Acquisitions: The business must not have been acquired by a participant in the Quebec Entrepreneur Program or a group under their control within the past five years.
• Net Worth: You must have a minimum net worth of CAD 600,000, excluding any donations received in the last six months. This net worth can be shared with your spouse or common-law partner.
• Business Partners: Business partners are not eligible to apply for permanent residency under the entrepreneur program.
• Business Control: You must have sole or joint control of the business with your spouse or common-law partner.
• Acquisition Expenses: You need to invest at least CAD 300,000 for businesses located in the Montreal Metropolitan Community, or CAD 150,000 for those outside this area.
• Specialized Support: Engage a specialized business transfer organization in Quebec, which must provide a detailed service offer outlining support and resources for the acquisition process.
• Succession Plan: Submit a succession plan that includes details of the business project with your application.
• Acquisition Offer: You must make an acquisition offer in accordance with the succession plan and service offer within two years.

Profile 2: Purchased Business

• Previous Acquisitions: The business must not have been acquired by a participant in the Quebec Entrepreneur Program or a group they control within the last five years.
• Residency Requirement: You must have resided in Quebec for a minimum of two years under a work or study permit.
• Net Worth: You need to have a minimum net worth of CAD 300,000, excluding any donations received six months prior to your application.
• Business Control: You must control the acquired business solely with your spouse, without involvement from business partners who are not applying to the program.
• Specialized Support: Utilize the services of a business acquisition organization in Quebec and include a business transfer support offer with your application.
• Succession Plan: Ensure that your application includes a succession plan for the business.

Canada presents a broad spectrum of programs, incentives, and opportunities for entrepreneurs, but navigating these can be intricate. Engaging with a business immigration lawyer can assist you in pinpointing the most appropriate opportunities that align with your objectives. A business immigration lawyer not only clarifies these requirements but also facilitates your compliance with them. What may initially appear challenging can become more manageable with professional guidance. For personalized guidance and to explore your options, contact us today.