How to Obtain a Canadian Investor Visa in 2026
- Mazlum Şen
- Feb 9
- 3 min read
As of 2026, the Canadian Investor (Entrepreneur) Visa remains one of the most reliable immigration pathways for entrepreneurs seeking to establish a business in Canada and pursue a long-term route from permanent residence to citizenship. Canada does not offer citizenship by direct investment. Instead, it applies a controlled, sustainable, and merit-based system focused on investor and entrepreneur immigration.
In this guide, you will find clear answers to the following questions: What is the Canadian Investor (Entrepreneur) Visa, who can apply, how does the process work, and which programs stand out in 2026?
"As of 2026, the program is temporarily suspended and no new applications are being accepted."
What Is the Canadian Investor (Entrepreneur) Visa?
The Canadian Investor (Entrepreneur) Visa is a general term covering immigration programs that allow foreign investors or entrepreneurs to settle in Canada through an innovative business model that contributes to the Canadian economy.
These programs:
Do not grant direct citizenship
Primarily lead to Permanent Residence (PR)
Allow eligibility for Canadian citizenship once legal requirements are fulfilled
For this reason, “citizenship through entrepreneurship in Canada” refers to a structured pathway:Entrepreneurship → Permanent Residence → Citizenship
Requirements for Citizenship Through Entrepreneurship in Canada
The citizenship pathway for entrepreneurs typically follows these steps:
Obtaining permanent residence through an eligible investor or entrepreneur program
Completing the required physical residence period in Canada
Meeting language proficiency and citizenship eligibility requirements
Submitting a citizenship application
Canada places strong emphasis on:
Actual residence in the country
Economic and social integration
This approach makes Canada particularly suitable for entrepreneurs with long-term settlement and family relocation goals.
Who Can Apply for the Canadian Investor (Entrepreneur) Visa?
Canadian entrepreneur immigration programs focus not only on capital strength but also on active economic contribution.
Generally eligible applicant profiles include:
Business owners and entrepreneurs
Startup founders
Individuals planning to establish a business or acquire shares in an existing Canadian company
Applicants who can legally document the source of their funds
Key assessment criteria:
Legitimacy of investment capital
Feasibility and innovation of the business plan
Clean criminal record
Potential contribution to the Canadian economy
Immigration Through the Canadian Investor (Entrepreneur) Program
The Canadian investor (entrepreneur) immigration framework is aligned with the country’s skilled immigration policy.
The primary objectives are:
Job creation
Support for innovative and scalable business models
Regional economic development
Accordingly, entrepreneur immigration programs are administered under federal oversight, ensuring transparency and sustainability.
Canada Start-Up Program
One of the most prominent pathways for entrepreneurs in recent years is the Canada Start-Up Program.
This program:
Targets entrepreneurs with innovative and scalable business ideas
Requires support from designated Canadian organizations
Is structured with a direct permanent residence objective
For technology-driven, digital, and globally scalable ventures, the Canada Start-Up Program offers a more strategic and future-oriented alternative to traditional entrepreneur visas
Canadian Investor (Entrepreneur) Visa Application Process
The application process generally includes the following stages:
Identification of the most suitable program
Preliminary eligibility and risk assessment
Development of a compliant business plan and venture structure
Submission of official applications
Evaluation and approval by relevant authorities
Grant of permanent residence and relocation to Canada
Depending on the chosen program, the process typically takes 12 to 36 months.
Advantages of the Canadian Investor (Entrepreneur) Visa
Permanent Residence and Citizenship Pathway
Permanent residence for the main applicant and eligible family members
Eligibility to apply for Canadian citizenship once conditions are met
High Quality of Life
Advanced healthcare and education systems
Safe, stable, and transparent social environment
Strong educational opportunities for children
Global Business Advantages
Access to the North American market
Strong trade and economic ties with the United States
A secure and reputable business environment for international entrepreneursı
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the Canadian Investor (Entrepreneur) Visa grant citizenship directly?
No. This visa does not provide direct citizenship. Applicants first obtain permanent residence and may apply for citizenship after meeting legal residency and eligibility requirements.
How long does the Canadian Investor (Entrepreneur) Visa process take?
Depending on the selected program, the process typically takes between 1 and 3 years.
Is the investment refundable?
This depends on the investment model. Business establishment or partnership-based investments involve commercial risk and do not guarantee capital return. For start-up and provincial programs, the investment structure must be carefully designed from the outset.
A Long-Term Immigration Strategy for Entrepreneurs
The Canadian Investor (Entrepreneur) Visa is designed for individuals seeking permanent residence and long-term settlement rather than fast-track passport solutions. Selecting the right program and working with experienced professionals are critical to ensuring a smooth and compliant immigration process.
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