Created with foreign business owners in mind, the Quebec Startup Visa Program or Entrepreneur Program is a specialized Canadian immigration pathway to support entrepreneurial ventures in Quebec. This program is an excellent opportunity for foreign entrepreneurs with the necessary financial means, business knowledge, and innovative ideas to pursue a new project in the province. This program offers a pathway to permanent Canadian residency for successful candidates.
Québec, situated in central Canada, is the largest province in Canada based on its area. It is globally renowned for its cutting-edge transportation systems, eco-friendly vehicle technologies, and renewable, clean energy promotion. Moreover, Québec is a hub for the life sciences sector, boasting one of the most prominent clusters in North America.
The dynamic and diverse workforce in Québec drives innovation in various industries such as aerospace, robotics, and high technology. Its abundant natural resources, advanced technologies, and reliable transportation networks make it an attractive choice for companies worldwide looking to establish their presence.
The first foreign trade zone in Canada occurred in Quebec City. The international trade zone attracts many investors and businesses to access foreign markets.
Quebec is strategically located which gives the city an advantage to access major markets in North America and certain parts of Europe. Moreover, the transportation infrastructure is well-developed, including ports, highways and airports.
The two biggest free-trade zones are in Quebec—the North American market, thanks to CUSMA, and the European market, thanks to CETA.
Innovation Success Story: Quebec is known for its diverse, innovative solutions in various sectors, such as the pharmaceutical industry, aerospace, robotics, and many others.
From art and design to high-tech, Quebec boasts a highly competitive workforce known for its diversity and remarkable creativity.
Quebec has one of the top hydroelectric power plants in North America. Moreover, the province emphasizes clean and renewable energy in most industrial sectors.
Québec has one of the lowest tax rates in the world.
Quebec’s expansive land is rich with abundant natural resources, a talented and innovative workforce, and a deeply ingrained culture of creativity—qualities essential in propelling the major industries of a thriving, globally connected economy!
Quebec has major technical centres and world-class equipment manufacturers in the aerospace industry. It is considered one of the world’s top three aerospace capitals.
Quebec is a significant agricultural leader that annually exports food products worth over $8 billion. The region provides plentiful resources, a skilled and diverse labour force, and is home to top-tier businesses.
Quebec is prominent internationally in the aluminum industry. As the fourth largest primary aluminum producer globally, it caters to high-potential industries while prioritizing sustainability and environmental stewardship.
At the cutting edge of technology, Québec showcases a thriving ICT sector, contributing to advancements in artificial intelligence and deep learning. Experience a nexus of creativity and innovation in Quebec!
The life sciences sector in Quebec is robust, with highly appealing tax credits available. Within this industry, there is a diverse community of businesses that encompasses both well-known international pharmaceutical leaders and pioneering local biotech enterprises that are gaining recognition on a global scale.
Many acclaimed games from the digital entertainment sector have been created in Québec and enjoyed by a global audience. Titles like Deus Ex, the Assassin’s Creed series, and Call of Duty showcase the abundant talent, creativity, and technological innovation found in the region.
Here are some important facts about the business sector in Quebec:
The Quebec Entrepreneur Program is designed for immigrant managers who wish to establish a new company or acquire and manage an existing business in the province of Quebec. Successful candidates can migrate to Quebec and carry out their entrepreneurial projects.
The candidate must manage the business’s activities as part of one of the following projects:
To qualify, candidates must reside in Quebec and establish a business that is endorsed by a service provided by a business accelerator, business incubator, or university entrepreneurship centre.
The candidate must present a comprehensive business plan and fulfil all required eligibility criteria listed on the website of the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Diversité et de l’Inclusion du Québec (MIDI).
To qualify for this program, candidates must reside in Quebec to establish a new enterprise or obtain an existing one and oversee its operations. Approved candidates must submit two financial payments as part of their application process:
Candidates must submit a refundable security deposit of CAD $200,000 to ensure the establishment of the business. This deposit will be returned upon successful implementation of the business plan.
The business cannot engage in activities such as payday loans, cheque cashing, pawnbroking, real estate development, real estate or insurance brokerage, or production/distribution/sales of pornographic or sexually explicit materials or services.
In the case of acquiring a business, it must have been operational in the five years before the application.
Apply for Canadian PR with the Help of Licensed RCIC Experts.
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Quebec Startup Visa:
Eligible applicants include entrepreneurs with a viable business concept, a letter of support from a designated organization in Quebec, and meeting language proficiency requirements.
Successful applicants and their families can obtain permanent residency in Canada, access to Quebec’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, support for business development, and collaboration opportunities.
Yes. Applicants can include their direct family members, such as spouses and dependent children, in their application.
The provincial government offers many incentives for startups. In addition, there are tax credits, grants, and support programs for small businesses.
For more information on the Quebec Startup Visa Program, please contact our immigration experts.
If you’re interested in starting a business in Quebec, you can begin the visa process with the help of licensed and trustworthy experts.
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