BRITISH COLOMBIA IMMIGRATION LAWYER

ENTREPRENEUR IMMIGRATION

Operating under the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP), this initiative offers a “temporary to permanent” immigration framework. Successful applicants initially come to B.C. as temporary residents, subsequently transitioning to permanent residency after establishing and managing a qualifying business. The program comprises various streams, including the Base Stream, Regional Pilot, and Strategic Projects, each tailored to specific entrepreneurial scenarios. Through a comprehensive application process, entrepreneurs demonstrate their qualifications, investment capacity, and commitment to job creation, aligning with B.C.’s economic priorities. The program aims to attract and retain entrepreneurial talent, fostering business development and contributing to the overall prosperity of the province.

1. BASE STREAM
   • Personal Requirements:
     • Personal net worth of at least CAD$600,000
     • Business and/or management experience
     • Basic English or French language skills (CLB level 4 or higher)
     • Lawfully admitted in the current country of residence
     • Eligible for legal immigration status in Canada
   • Business, Job, and Investment Requirements:
     • Establish an eligible new business or buy/improve an existing business
     • A minimum personal investment of CAD$200,000
     • Establish at least one new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
   • Fees:
     • $300 registration fee
     • $3,500 application fee
   • Application Process:
   1. Prepare a Business Proposal:
      • Research and create a business proposal aligned with B.C.’s economic needs.
   2. Register Proposal with BC PNP:
      • Create a profile and register the proposal online, including a short business concept. A non-refundable registration fee of $300 applies.
   3. Points-Based Evaluation:
      • Points are awarded based on human capital factors.
      • Business concept is scored separately by BC PNP staff.
   4. Invitation to Apply (ITA):
      • If eligible, you will enter the qualified pool for up to 180 days or until receiving an invitation to apply.
   5. Application Submission:
      • A review of net worth is required before you submit a complete application within four months with fees. An interview may follow.
   6. Signing Performance Agreements:
      • If approved, sign unique performance agreements based on the application, business plan, and interview.
   7. Work Permit & Arrival:
      • Upon approval of the application, you will receive a support letter to apply for a work permit within 90 days. Upon getting the work permit, you must arrive in B.C. within 12 months.
   8. Build Your Business:
      • Implement business plan, actively manage, and meet performance expectations within 20 months.
   9. BC PNP Nomination:
      • Submit a final report demonstrating compliance with performance agreement terms between 18 and 20 months after arrival. Language requirements must also be shown to be fulfilled (Canadian Language Benchmark Level 4).
   10. Permanent Residence:
       • Upon confirmation of nomination, apply for permanent residence through IRCC under the Provincial Nominee Class.
2. REGIONAL PILOT

   The EI Regional Pilot encourages entrepreneurs to explore business opportunities in smaller B.C. communities, contributing to economic development beyond major urban centers. Key aspects include active community involvement, in-person exploratory visits, and community referrals. Requirements include alignment with community priorities, demonstration of business/management experience, and fulfillment of language proficiency and investment criteria.

   • Requirements:
     • Establish an eligible new business aligned with community priorities.
     • Demonstrate business and/or management experience.
     • Personal net worth of at least CAD$300,000.
     • Make a personal investment of at least CAD$100,000.
     • Create a minimum of one new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
     • Minimum language proficiency (CLB 4).
     • Obtain or be eligible to obtain a legal immigration status in Canada.
     • Be lawfully admitted into your country of current residence.
   • Application Process:
     1. Community Engagement:
        • Prospective candidates must visit the community to understand local priorities and propose suitable businesses.
     2. Community Referral:
        • Entrepreneurs may request a referral for EI Regional Pilot registration. The community holds the discretion for issuance of a referral.
     3. Requirements and Eligibility:
        • Ensure alignment with program criteria, community priorities, and meeting eligibility criteria.
     4. Direct Community Contact:
        • Connect with designated community contacts for detailed information.
     5. Referral Issuance:
        • After visiting the community, candidates may request a referral for registration.
     6. Registration and Application:
        • Register and apply for the EI Regional Pilot, subject to community referral.
3. STRATEGIC PROJECTS

   The Strategic Projects stream facilitates strategic investments by foreign corporations in B.C., allowing for the permanent transfer of up to five senior employees. Eligible corporations should be well-established, financially sound, and exhibit readiness for investment. Key staff members must possess essential qualifications, hold senior roles, and work full-time in B.C. The application process involves an exploratory visit, proposal discussion, registration, invitation to apply, application review, signing of performance agreements, issuance of work permits, business establishment, nomination, and subsequent permanent residence applications. This stream aims to bolster B.C.’s economic growth while securing permanent residency for key staff members.

   • Eligibility:
     • Well-established and financially sound foreign corporations.
     • Demonstrate investment readiness and international expansion capacity into B.C.
     • Provide significant economic benefit through high-value investment.
   • Key Staff Eligibility:
     • Current senior employees with qualifications essential for B.C. operations.
     • Appointed to executive or senior managerial positions or possess specialized knowledge.
     • Employed in a permanent full-time capacity in B.C.
     • Offered a wage commensurate with expertise.
   • Application Process:
     1. Exploratory Visit to B.C.:
        • Senior executives visit B.C. to explore opportunities.
     2. Discuss Proposal:
        • Contact BC PNP to discuss the business proposal.
     3. Register Interest:
        • Register expressing interest. Pay a $300 registration fee.
     4. Invitation to Apply:
        • If invited to apply, submit a full application within 90 days.
     5. Submit Required Documents:
        • Submit all the required forms along with supporting documents.
     6. Signing Performance Agreements:
        • If approved, sign corporate and key staff performance agreements.
     7. Work Permit & Arrival Report:
        • A support letter for applying for a work permit will be issued upon approval of the key staff member with a validity of 90 days. Key staff must arrive in B.C. within 180 days and submit an arrival report form within 60 days of arrival to the BC PNP.
     8. Business Establishment & Nomination:
        • Submit a final report demonstrating fulfillment of performance agreement terms.
     9. Apply for Permanent Residence:
        • Key staff must apply for permanent residence within 180 days of nomination.

CONCLUSION

The intricacies of the application process, coupled with the dynamic nature of immigration laws, make legal guidance indispensable when it comes to applying for BC PNP. A seasoned immigration lawyer brings expertise to navigate complex requirements, ensuring accurate documentation and reducing the risk of errors. Their continuous awareness of evolving regulations helps align your application with the latest standards, enhancing the prospects of success. Tailored advice based on individual circumstances, coupled with insights into immigration authorities’ preferences, adds strategic value to the application. Furthermore, legal representation becomes a crucial asset in addressing unforeseen challenges, fostering a smoother and more efficient immigration journey. Ultimately, entrusting a lawyer with your BC PNP application not only offers peace of mind but significantly augments the likelihood of a favorable outcome in your pursuit of provincial nomination and, subsequently, permanent residency in British Columbia.

At Kozyrev Law, we are dedicated to providing unparalleled legal services for individuals navigating the complex terrain of immigration, specifically in the context of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). Our seasoned team of immigration experts understands the intricacies of the application process, offering comprehensive guidance to ensure each step is undertaken with precision. From meticulous document preparation to strategic counsel, we prioritize the unique needs of our clients, striving to secure favorable outcomes. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Kozyrev Law stands as a trusted partner, empowering clients on their journey to achieving provincial nomination and permanent residency in the vibrant province of British Columbia.

Note: The information presented in this article is not intended to constitute legal advice. It is recommended to refer to official government publications and guidelines for accurate and up-to-date information. For obtaining legal advice tailored to the specific circumstances of your case, it is advised to consult with a qualified professional.