NB Entrepreneur Stream: $250K Investment Gets You Canada PR

Your gateway to Canadian permanent residency through entrepreneurship

On This Page You Will Find:

• Complete eligibility requirements for New Brunswick's entrepreneur immigration program
• Point system breakdown showing exactly how to score the required 68 points
• Step-by-step application process from initial EOI to permanent residency
• Real investment amounts, processing fees, and timeline expectations
• Insider tips on the $100,000 good faith deposit and refund conditions
• Common mistakes that kill applications before they start

Summary:

New Brunswick's Entrepreneurial Stream offers a direct path to Canadian permanent residency for business owners willing to invest $250,000 and create jobs. With a minimum net worth requirement of $600,000 and a point system requiring 68 out of 100 points, this program attracts entrepreneurs seeking a quieter lifestyle in Canada's maritime region. The process involves a $100,000 refundable deposit, specific business ownership requirements, and a commitment to live in New Brunswick. Success rates are competitive, but the program periodically closes due to capacity limits, making timing crucial for serious applicants.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Minimum $250,000 business investment and $600,000 net worth required for eligibility
• Must score at least 68 points across age, language, education, and business experience
• $100,000 good faith deposit is fully refundable if you meet program conditions within 2 years
• Program capacity is limited and may close without notice to new applications
• Total processing fees range from $3,350-$4,375 depending on family size

Dasha stared at her laptop screen in her Minsk office, weighing her options for Canadian immigration. As a successful business owner in Belarus, she had the capital and experience, but which province would welcome her entrepreneurial spirit? After months of research, she discovered New Brunswick's Entrepreneurial Stream – a program specifically designed for job creators like herself.

If you're an established business owner dreaming of Canadian permanent residency, you've likely considered multiple immigration pathways. While federal programs attract massive competition, provincial entrepreneur streams offer a more targeted approach. New Brunswick's program stands out for its relatively accessible investment threshold and clear path to permanent residency.

The reality? Most entrepreneurs overlook New Brunswick because they're fixated on Toronto or Vancouver. But here's what they're missing: this maritime province offers lower business costs, less competition, and a genuine welcome mat for international entrepreneurs willing to contribute to local economic growth.

Understanding New Brunswick's Appeal for Entrepreneurs

New Brunswick might surprise you. With under 800,000 residents, this Atlantic province offers something increasingly rare in Canada: space to grow without crushing competition. Moncton, the largest city, houses fewer than 150,000 people, while Fredericton, the capital, maintains a small-town feel with big-city amenities.

For entrepreneurs, this translates to significant advantages. Commercial real estate costs a fraction of Toronto or Vancouver prices. Labor markets are accessible, and local governments actively support business development. The proximity to major US markets through Maine provides additional opportunities for expansion.

The province's strategic location offers year-round shipping through the Port of Saint John, while its bilingual population (English and French) opens doors to both Canadian and international markets. These factors make New Brunswick particularly attractive for manufacturing, logistics, and service-based businesses.

New Brunswick Entrepreneurial Stream: Complete Requirements Breakdown

The New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) Entrepreneurial Stream targets experienced business owners ready to establish operations in the province. Unlike investor programs that simply require capital, this stream demands active business management and job creation.

Financial Requirements That Matter

Your financial capacity forms the foundation of your application. The program requires a minimum investment of $250,000 in a New Brunswick business, but this isn't just money sitting in an account. This investment must go toward:

• Equipment and machinery purchases
• Facility improvements or lease deposits
• Initial inventory and working capital
• Marketing and operational setup costs

Beyond the business investment, you need a verifiable net worth of at least $600,000. Crucially, $300,000 of this amount must be liquid and unencumbered – meaning readily available cash or easily convertible assets without liens or restrictions.

This liquidity requirement catches many applicants off-guard. Your beautiful home worth $400,000 counts toward net worth, but if it's your primary residence with a mortgage, it doesn't help meet the liquid asset requirement. Smart applicants ensure their liquid assets exceed the minimum before applying.

Business Ownership and Management Criteria

The program demands genuine entrepreneurship, not passive investment. You must:

• Own at least one-third of the business (33.3% minimum ownership stake)
• Actively manage day-to-day operations
• Maintain the business's physical location within New Brunswick
• Create at least two full-time jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents

The job creation requirement deserves special attention. These positions must be genuine full-time roles (minimum 30 hours per week) with competitive wages. Hiring family members doesn't count, and the jobs must benefit the local labor market.

Age and Residency Commitments

Age restrictions apply strictly: you must be between 22 and 55 years old at the time of application. This range reflects the program's focus on entrepreneurs who can contribute long-term to the provincial economy.

The residency commitment goes beyond simply obtaining permanent residency. You must genuinely intend to live in New Brunswick, not just establish a business there while residing elsewhere. Immigration officers scrutinize this commitment carefully, looking for evidence of genuine settlement intention.

Mastering the Point System: Your Path to 68+ Points

The NBPNP Entrepreneurial Stream uses a 100-point system, requiring a minimum score of 68 points for eligibility. Understanding how points are allocated helps you maximize your score strategically.

Age Factor: Timing Your Application

Age scoring rewards applicants in their prime business years:

• Ages 35-50: 10 points (maximum)
• Ages 22-34 or 51-55: 5 points

If you're approaching 35 or nearing 51, timing your application strategically can impact your point total. The five-point difference might seem small, but in a competitive system, every point matters.

Language Proficiency: Your Communication Edge

Language requirements reflect New Brunswick's bilingual character and business environment needs:

First Official Language (English or French):

• CLB 7 or higher: 20 points (maximum)
• CLB 5-6: 16 points
• CLB 4: 12 points
• Below CLB 4: 0 points

Second Official Language:

• CLB 5 or higher: 5 additional points

Most successful applicants focus on achieving CLB 7 in English, as it's more widely used in business contexts. However, if you already speak French fluently, demonstrating proficiency in both languages gives you a competitive edge and maximum language points.

Education: Credentials That Count

Educational credentials require assessment through approved organizations, and points don't combine:

• Master's degree or PhD: 25 points
• Bachelor's degree: 20 points
• Post-secondary diploma or certificate: 15 points

The Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) process takes 2-4 months, so start early. Organizations like World Education Services (WES) or Comparative Education Service (CES) provide these assessments for Canadian immigration purposes.

Business Experience: Proving Your Track Record

Business ownership or senior management experience carries significant weight (maximum 20 points):

• 5+ years of business ownership: 20 points
• 3-4 years of business ownership: 15 points
• 1-2 years of business ownership: 10 points
• Senior management experience: 10 points

The program values actual business ownership over employment, even in senior roles. If you've owned multiple businesses, focus on demonstrating continuous entrepreneurial experience rather than scattered ventures.

Business Concept: Your New Brunswick Vision

Your proposed business concept can earn up to 15 points based on:

• Economic benefit to New Brunswick
• Innovation and uniqueness
• Market demand and viability
• Job creation potential beyond minimum requirements
• Export potential or import substitution

Successful concepts often address local market gaps or use New Brunswick's strategic advantages. For example, a logistics company utilizing the Port of Saint John or a technology firm serving both Canadian and US markets typically scores well.

Adaptability Factors: Demonstrating Commitment

Adaptability points (maximum 5) reward demonstrated connection to New Brunswick:

• Exploratory visit of 5+ business days: 5 points
• Previous work or study experience in New Brunswick: 5 points
• Job offer from New Brunswick employer: 5 points
• Family connections in New Brunswick: 5 points

The exploratory visit represents the most accessible adaptability points for most applicants. Use this visit to research business opportunities, meet potential partners, and demonstrate genuine interest in the province.

The $100,000 Good Faith Deposit: What You Need to Know

Upon approval, New Brunswick requires a $100,000 good faith deposit – a significant sum that deserves careful consideration. This deposit serves as security ensuring you'll fulfill your business and residency commitments.

Deposit Conditions and Refund Process

The deposit is fully refundable if you meet program conditions within two years of landing in Canada:

• Establish and actively operate your proposed business
• Meet the minimum investment commitment ($250,000)
• Create the required jobs for Canadian citizens/permanent residents
• Maintain primary residence in New Brunswick

The two-year timeline starts from your initial landing in Canada, not from when you receive provincial nomination. This distinction is crucial for planning your business launch and ensuring you meet all conditions within the specified timeframe.

What Happens If You Don't Comply

Failure to meet program conditions results in forfeiture of the entire $100,000 deposit. Common reasons for non-compliance include:

• Relocating to another province before meeting conditions
• Failing to establish the proposed business
• Not creating the required jobs within the timeframe
• Selling the business before fulfilling commitments

The program takes these conditions seriously. Immigration officers conduct compliance checks, and the deposit provides strong incentive for genuine commitment to New Brunswick.

Step-by-Step Application Process: From EOI to Permanent Residency

The application process involves multiple stages, each with specific requirements and timelines. Understanding each step helps you prepare effectively and avoid delays.

Stage 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)

Your journey begins with creating an online account on the NBPNP website and submitting an Expression of Interest. The EOI isn't a full application – it's your opportunity to demonstrate you meet basic requirements and score competitively.

The EOI includes:

• Personal and family information
• Education and language test results
• Business experience details
• Proposed business concept summary
• Financial capacity confirmation

EOI submissions are free, but you're competing against other applicants in a pool system. Higher-scoring candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) first.

Stage 2: Invitation to Apply and Full Application

Receiving an ITA means New Brunswick sees potential in your application. You typically have 90 days to submit your complete application with supporting documents.

The full application requires extensive documentation:

• Detailed business plan (typically 20-30 pages)
• Audited financial statements proving net worth
• Bank statements confirming liquid assets
• Educational credential assessments
• Language test results
• Police clearance certificates
• Medical examinations for you and family members

The $2,000 processing fee is due with your complete application submission.

Stage 3: Assessment and Interview Process

New Brunswick immigration officers review applications thoroughly, often taking 6-12 months for processing. During this period, they may:

• Request additional documentation
• Conduct interviews (in-person or video conference)
• Verify business experience and financial claims
• Assess business plan viability

Interviews focus on your business experience, proposed New Brunswick venture, and commitment to provincial residence. Preparation is crucial – officers expect detailed knowledge of your business plan and local market conditions.

Stage 4: Provincial Nomination and Federal Processing

Upon provincial approval, you receive a Certificate of Nomination and must submit your federal permanent residence application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Federal processing involves additional fees:

• Principal applicant: $825
• Spouse or common-law partner: $825
• Each dependent child: $225
• Right of Permanent Residence Fee: $500 (principal applicant and spouse)

Federal processing typically takes 12-18 months, during which IRCC conducts security and medical checks.

Investment Strategies and Business Planning

Success in the Entrepreneurial Stream requires more than meeting minimum requirements – you need a compelling business concept that benefits New Brunswick's economy.

Sectors with Strong Approval Rates

Certain business sectors align well with New Brunswick's economic priorities:

Manufacturing and Processing: use lower operational costs and port access for export markets

Technology Services: Serving both local and international clients from a cost-effective base

Tourism and Hospitality: Capitalizing on New Brunswick's natural attractions and growing tourism sector

Agriculture and Aquaculture: Building on the province's natural resources and export capabilities

Professional Services: Meeting growing demand in accounting, consulting, and specialized services

Common Business Plan Mistakes

Many applications fail due to inadequate business planning:

• Unrealistic financial projections without market research
• Insufficient analysis of local competition
• Vague job creation plans without specific roles or timelines
• Overestimating market size or demand
• Underestimating startup costs and working capital needs

Successful business plans demonstrate thorough market research, realistic financial projections, and clear strategies for job creation and growth.

Financial Planning and Cost Considerations

Beyond the obvious investment and deposit requirements, successful applicants budget for additional costs throughout the immigration process.

Complete Cost Breakdown

Pre-Application Costs:

• Language testing: $300-400
• Educational credential assessment: $200-300
• Exploratory visit: $2,000-5,000
• Business plan preparation: $3,000-8,000

Application Processing:

• NBPNP processing fee: $2,000
• IRCC fees: $1,375-2,425 (depending on family size)
• Medical examinations: $300-500 per person
• Police clearances: $100-200 per country

Post-Approval Costs:

• Good faith deposit: $100,000 (refundable)
• Business setup and initial operations: $250,000+
• Relocation expenses: $10,000-25,000
• Initial living expenses: $20,000-40,000

Smart applicants budget $300,000-350,000 in liquid assets beyond their business investment to cover all costs comfortably.

Timeline Expectations and Planning

The complete process from initial EOI to landing in Canada typically takes 24-36 months, assuming no complications or delays.

Typical Timeline Breakdown:

• EOI to ITA: 3-6 months
• Application preparation: 2-3 months
• Provincial processing: 6-12 months
• Federal processing: 12-18 months
• Business setup and compliance: 12-24 months

This timeline assumes everything proceeds smoothly. Delays can occur due to incomplete documentation, interview scheduling, or processing backlogs.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Learning from others' mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration throughout the application process.

Documentation and Evidence Issues

Insufficient financial documentation kills many applications. Officers need clear proof of:

• Source of funds for both net worth and liquid assets
• Business ownership and management experience
• Educational credentials from recognized institutions
• Language proficiency through approved testing

Maintain detailed financial records and obtain professional audits well before applying.

Business Concept Problems

Weak business concepts often reflect insufficient research or unrealistic expectations. Avoid:

• Businesses with limited job creation potential
• Concepts requiring licenses or certifications you don't possess
• Market assumptions without supporting research
• Financial projections that don't match industry standards

Timing and Capacity Constraints

New Brunswick limits annual intake and may close the program without notice when capacity is reached. Monitor program status regularly and apply promptly when eligible.

Living and Working in New Brunswick: What to Expect

Understanding life in New Brunswick helps you make informed decisions and demonstrate genuine settlement intention.

Economic Environment

New Brunswick's economy centers on natural resources, manufacturing, and services. Key sectors include:

• Forestry and pulp/paper production
• Mining and energy
• Agriculture and seafood processing
• Tourism and hospitality
• Information technology

The province offers lower business costs than major Canadian centers, with competitive commercial real estate, utilities, and labor costs.

Quality of Life Factors

New Brunswick provides excellent quality of life with:

• Affordable housing compared to major Canadian cities
• Low crime rates and safe communities
• Access to outdoor recreation and natural beauty
• Bilingual education system
• Proximity to major US markets

The pace of life is slower than major metropolitan areas, appealing to entrepreneurs seeking work-life balance.

Maximizing Your Success Chances

Success in the New Brunswick Entrepreneurial Stream requires strategic preparation and professional execution.

Professional Support Considerations

While not required, many successful applicants work with:

• Immigration lawyers for application review
• Business plan writers familiar with NBPNP requirements
• Accountants for financial documentation
• Local business advisors for market research

Professional fees typically range from $5,000-15,000 but can significantly improve application quality and success chances.

Preparation Timeline

Start preparing 12-18 months before your intended application:

• Obtain language testing and educational assessments
• Organize financial documentation and audits
• Conduct exploratory visit and market research
• Develop comprehensive business plan
• Ensure all family members have required documentation

This preparation timeline allows for addressing any issues or delays without rushing your application.

The New Brunswick Entrepreneurial Stream offers a genuine pathway to Canadian permanent residency for qualified business owners. With its $250,000 investment requirement, clear point system, and refundable good faith deposit, the program provides structure and certainty often missing from other immigration options.

Success requires more than meeting minimum requirements – you need compelling business concepts, thorough preparation, and genuine commitment to New Brunswick. The program's limited capacity means timing matters, and strong applications submitted early have the best chances.

For entrepreneurs like Dasha, who value opportunity over urban amenities, New Brunswick represents a strategic choice. Lower business costs, supportive government policies, and access to North American markets create an environment where international entrepreneurs can build successful businesses while enjoying an excellent quality of life.

The investment is significant, the process is lengthy, but the outcome – Canadian permanent residency through entrepreneurship – makes it worthwhile for qualified applicants ready to contribute to New Brunswick's economic future.