December 16, 2014 — Vancouver — Today, Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announced that Canada will unveil a pilot program in January 2015 to attract experienced business immigrants who can actively invest in the Canadian economy, stimulating innovation, economic growth and job creation.
The new Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program is part of a series of transformational changes that build on the Government's commitment to build a fast and flexible economic immigration system.
In addition to making an investment of $2 million for a period of approximately 15 years and having a net worth of $10 million, immigrant investors will be required to meet certain program eligibility criteria related to language and education, and have proven business or investment experience. This will ensure that immigrant investors will have a strong impact on the Canadian economy, and that those admitted for permanent residence will be well prepared to integrate into the Canadian business landscape and society.
This new pilot program will begin accepting applications in late January 2015 and will provide a pathway to permanent residence for up to 60 immigrant investors and their families.
The creation of the Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program fulfills the Government of Canada's commitment in Economic Action Plan 2014 to create a more focused and effective pilot program that will ensure that immigrants who come to Canada deliver meaningful benefits to our economy.
Kevin Menard
Minister's Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
Building a stronger Canada: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) strengthens Canada’s economic, social and cultural prosperity, helping ensure Canadian safety and security while managing one of the largest and most generous immigration programs in the world.