Nova Scotia Nominee Program
Nova Scotia has launched two new business immigration streams for international entrepreneurs and international students who have graduated from its provincial post-secondary learning institutions and have started their own businesses. These streams are effective starting January 1, 2016.
Entrepreneur Stream
To be selected for the provincial nomination, eligible candidates are first required to submit an Expression of Interest to the Province of Nova Scotia. Received applications will be scored based on the points system of the program, and top-scoring candidates will be selected and invited to formally apply to the Nova Scotia Nominee Program. Successful applicants then sign a Business Performance Agreement (BPA) with the province and become eligible to apply for a two-year work permit that will allow them and their family to settle and develop their business in Nova Scotia, complying with the conditions of their BPA. Once the conditions of the Business Performance Agreement are met, the candidate may apply for the provincial nomination for Permanent Residency. Nominated applicants receive the right to apply for permanent residence in Canada.
- Minimum personal net worth of $600,000 CAD that was lawfully acquired and can be verified by professionals and organizations designated by the province;
- Minimum three years of experience as a business owner, or over five years of managerial experience in a senior business position in the last 10 years;
- Capital investment of $150,000 CAD or greater in Nova Scotia;
- Sufficient Language Proficiency in English or French;
- Minimum level of education: a Canadian high school diploma or equivalent;
- A developed Business Establishment Plan.
International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
- Be 21 years of age or older;
- Have completed a full-time and minimum two-year post-secondary diploma or degree from a recognized university or community college in Nova Scotia, while residing in the province full-time during their studies (distance learning programs are not accepted);
- Own 100% of the equity of an eligible business in Nova Scotia and have participated in its daily management for at least one year prior to completing the Expression of Interest form;
- Prove that the business is financially stable and provides a sufficient salary for the applicant to establish themselves in Nova Scotia;
- Meet the minimum language proficiency standard in English or French.
Note: Only certain business activities qualify under the International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program. Proposed business activity will be evaluated for its potential to contribute economic benefit to the province, among other eligibility criteria.
For more detailed information on the program requirements and application process please refer to Nova Scotia Immigration website.
About Nova Scotia
- This picturesque province is nicknamed “Canada’s ocean playground” for its coastal location, boasting over 3800 islands.
- Nova Scotia is a popular tourist destination – its scenic images of fishing villages and lighthouses along the coastline can be found in travelers’ guidebooks all over the world.
- Fisheries are prominent in the economy and fabric of Nova Scotia – the taste of lobsters from the province is highly sought-after and appreciated across Canada and the world.
- Nova Scotia is one of the world’s leading producers of gypsum.
- Canada proudly offers a strong growing economy;
- Low taxes and business costs create a great climate for launching and developing business in the country;
- Canada is recognized for excellence in research and innovation;
- Canada leads in rankings for high quality of life among the G-7 nations.
