‘‘With streams closing and quotas tightening, high-impact entrepreneurs gain priority access through BC’s Base Stream’’
As British Columbia continues to overhaul its immigration programs for 2025, the province has kept one key door open for global talent: entrepreneurs. On April 15, the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) issued five Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under its Entrepreneur Immigration – BASE STREAM, WITH THE CUT-OFF SCORE SET AT 115.
This draw marks a continued commitment to attracting business leaders who bring high economic value—one of the few groups still prioritized in B.C.’s tightened immigration landscape.
WHAT IS THE ENTREPRENEUR BASE STREAM?
The Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Stream is designed for experienced businesspeople from around the world who wish to start or purchase a business in British Columbia. Unlike other PNP categories, this one targets individuals who can make a significant investment, generate economic benefits, and create jobs for Canadians or permanent residents.
Key Eligibility Criteria Include:
- Minimum registration score: 115 points
- Net worth: At least $600,000 CAD
- Minimum investment: $200,000 into a B.C. business
- Business ownership: At least 33% equity, or a $1 million investment if owning less
- Language requirement: CLB 4 or higher
- Education: Minimum of a 2-year post-secondary diploma, or
- 3 years as a business owner-manager,
- 4 years as a senior business manager, or
- A blend of 1 year as an owner-manager + 2 years as a senior manager.
- Job creation: Must generate at least one full-time job for a Canadian or PR in the province.
WHY ENTREPRENEURS SHOULD APPLY NOW
Amid shrinking windows for most candidates, entrepreneurs hold a unique strategic advantage in British Columbia. Here’s why:
1. You’re Still a Priority
While most other categories have been paused or limited, the entrepreneur stream remains active and continues to issue ITAs. That’s because B.C. sees entrepreneurs as catalysts for local economic development, especially in sectors affected by labour shortages or regional underinvestment.
2. High Economic Impact = Higher Odds
If you bring significant capital, business expertise, and a plan to grow or stabilize a B.C. business, your chances of receiving an ITA are substantially better than in general skilled streams.
3. Regional Entrepreneur Stream Also Available
For candidates with lower net worth and investment thresholds, B.C. also offers a Regional Entrepreneur stream in partnership with participating communities. Though it requires a community visit and letter of support, it offers a more accessible path for those targeting rural or smaller towns.
4. Pathway to Permanent Residency
After fulfilling your performance agreement, meeting business milestones, and running your venture successfully, you may become eligible for provincial nomination—bringing you one step closer to Canadian permanent residency.
FINAL THOUGHTS
With just five invitations issued and a minimum score of 115, this draw highlights just how selective the B.C. Entrepreneur program has become—but also how strategically important it is in the province’s immigration priorities.
For experienced business professionals looking to make an impact while securing a future in Canada, the BC PNP Entrepreneur Base Stream may be one of the last and best remaining routes to permanent residency in 2025.
