Canada is the Top Choice for Immigrant Entrepreneurs in 2023

Immigrate to Canada

Canada is the Top Choice for Immigrant Entrepreneurs in 2023

Canada has once again solidified its reputation as an attractive haven for immigrant entrepreneurs in 2023, claiming the coveted top spot in a ranking by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). This prestigious accolade positions Canada as the premier destination for startup founders and business visionaries, surpassing all other OECD countries in terms of appeal and opportunities.

Why is Canada the Top Choice for Immigrant Entrepreneurs?

The OECD encompasses 24 member countries, including economic giants like the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Australia. Among these nations, Canada has emerged as the most alluring hub for immigrant entrepreneurs, and here's why:

The Entrepreneurial Ecosystem:

According to the OECD's latest report, an increasing number of countries, including Canada, are actively seeking to attract foreign entrepreneurs to foster innovation, ignite job creation, stimulate foreign investment, and propel economic growth. To cultivate a fertile ground for budding businesses, a delicate balance must be struck, encompassing measures to nurture entrepreneurial ecosystems, fuel research and innovation, and ensure that prospective founders have access to the essential elements: funding and a pool of skilled human capital.

Indicators of Talent Attractiveness:

The OECD employs a sophisticated ranking system known as the “Indicators of Talent Attractiveness.” This system evaluates countries' abilities to draw foreign startup founders, taking into account a range of factors, including general considerations and specific immigration policies tailored to international startup founders. The evaluation comprises seven core dimensions, such as market conditions and reach, access to capital, and the level of digitalization and connectedness.

Canada's Standout Performance:

In the OECD's assessment, Canada excels, consistently ranking in the top 25% across all dimensions in the framework, with one exception—the ‘skills environment.' Notably, Canada, in partnership with Australia, is the only country extending permanent residence status to all successful applicants of the start-up visa program right from day one. Furthermore, Canada boasts a conducive regulatory framework for initiating and managing businesses, a society that warmly embraces migrants, and a high standard of living.

The Power of Innovation:

This ranking underscores the appeal of nations like Canada, where a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship thrives. It highlights that countries with a strong commitment to fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurial endeavors are ideally positioned to draw startup founders and entrepreneurs from around the world.

Your Path to Canada as an Entrepreneur

Canada offers a diverse array of immigration pathways and work permits tailor-made for entrepreneurs, investors, and self-employed individuals. Here are some key options:

Start-Up Visa Program:

This program grants permanent residence to immigrant entrepreneurs as they establish themselves in Canada. To qualify, applicants must meet criteria related to language proficiency, financial stability, location of settlement, security and medical clearances, business support through designated organizations, and ownership requirements. Venture capital funds, angel investor groups, and business incubators are designated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to participate in this program, ensuring the required minimum investment for successful applicants.

Investor Work Permits:

Under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), citizens of the US or Mexico who invest in new or existing businesses in Canada may be eligible for Investor work permits to manage their Canadian enterprises. Typically, the investor holds the majority of shares in the Canadian business, with an expectation of job creation and economic benefits for the local economy.

Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit:

Multinational corporations and entrepreneurs planning to expand their existing foreign businesses into Canada can explore the Intra-Company Transfer work permit. This option facilitates the movement of key staff between branches and is adaptable for entrepreneurs establishing new businesses in Canada.

Entrepreneur/Self-Employed Work Permit:

For entrepreneurs who are the majority or sole owners of a Canadian business or for owners intending to primarily reside outside of Canada, the Entrepreneur/Self-Employed work permit may be a suitable choice. Applicants must demonstrate that their business will have a significant economic, social, or cultural benefit to Canada.

In conclusion, Canada's top ranking as the most attractive destination for immigrant entrepreneurs in 2023 reflects the nation's commitment to fostering innovation, welcoming entrepreneurs, and providing a conducive environment for startups to flourish. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an established business owner, Canada's diverse immigration pathways offer a gateway to realizing your entrepreneurial dreams in a thriving and inclusive society.

To find out if you’re eligible for immigration to Canada, simply complete our free assessment! A member of the ITC Immigration Team will review your eligibility and contact you to discuss your options!

Business Assessment