British Columbia Invites Entrepreneurs to Apply for Immigration in Latest BC PNP Draw

The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) has once again issued invitations to foreign entrepreneurs looking to move to the province. These invitations target individuals who want to either start a new business or take over an existing one in British Columbia.

Draw Details – May 28, 2025

On May 28, 2025, BC PNP held two draws under its Entrepreneur Immigration (EI) streams. A total of 14 invitations were issued across two categories:

These draws are part of the province’s ongoing efforts to attract experienced business owners and investors. So far in 2025, the BC PNP has conducted eight entrepreneur draws, while only one skills-based draw has been held this year.

How the EI Streams Work

BC PNP’s Entrepreneur Immigration is meant for individuals who want to operate a business in the province. There are two different pathways under this category:

1. EI Regional Stream

• For entrepreneurs who want to start a new business in a rural, participating community.
• Requires community endorsement before receiving an invitation to apply.
• Purchasing an existing business is not allowed under this stream.
  
  

2. EI Base Stream

• Open to those who want to start a new business or buy an existing one anywhere in British Columbia.
• No community endorsement is required.
• Suitable for businesses located in urban or metropolitan areas such as Vancouver.
  
  

What Affects Selection?

For the EI Base stream, invitations to apply (ITAs) may be based on:

• Registration score
• Proposed business location and community size
• Whether it’s a new business or acquisition of an existing one
• Alignment with British Columbia’s priority sectors
  
  

Targeted draws are more likely to be held for proposals that align with specific regional or sectoral needs, while score-based draws will happen less frequently to manage application processing times.

Key Eligibility Criteria for Entrepreneurs

Each stream has different requirements, including:

• Minimum net worth
• Minimum investment amount
• Ownership share in the business
• Timeline to implement and report on the business

If you’re considering immigration to Canada through business investment, British Columbia’s entrepreneur streams could offer a viable pathway—especially with regular draws and clear guidance on where and how to establish your business.