PNP Entrepreneur Program (Nova Scotia)

The Nova Scotia Entrepreneur Stream under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program is designed for experienced business owners and senior managers who wish to establish or purchase a business in Nova Scotia and settle in Canada.

To qualify, applicants must typically have a minimum net worth of CAD $600,000 and be willing to invest at least CAD $150,000 to start or acquire a business in the province. They must also have at least 3 years of business ownership experience (owning at least 33% of a business) or 5+ years in a senior management role.

The process begins with submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI). If selected, the applicant attends an interview and signs a Business Performance Agreement. They are then issued a temporary work permit to move to Nova Scotia and actively manage the business.

After operating the business for at least 12 months and meeting all agreed performance conditions (such as job creation and active management), the applicant becomes eligible for provincial nomination. This nomination can then be used to apply for Canadian permanent residency, with the overall timeline typically ranging from 18 to 30 months, depending on processing times and business performance.

This program offers a practical pathway for entrepreneurs looking to expand internationally while securing long-term residency in Canada.