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Quebec Entrepreneur Program
QUEBEC ENTREPRENEUR PROGRAM
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Quebec Entrepreneur Program
The Quebec Entrepreneur Program is a business immigration pathway for experienced entrepreneurs who wish to establish, acquire, and actively operate a business in Quebec. Through this program, successful applicants can obtain Canadian permanent residence, provided they meet Quebec’s selection criteria and federal admissibility requirements.
Unlike passive investor pathways, this program is designed for individuals who are ready to make a direct, hands-on contribution to Quebec’s economy and demonstrate a genuine intention to settle in the province long term.
How the Quebec Entrepreneur Program Works
Quebec operates its immigration system independently from the rest of Canada. As a result, entrepreneurs applying through Quebec must first be selected by the provincial government before applying for permanent residence at the federal level.
The process begins with Quebec assessing the applicant’s business proposal, experience, and financial capacity. If approved, Quebec issues a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ). The applicant then applies to the federal government, which conducts medical, criminal, and security checks before granting permanent residence.
This two-step structure allows Quebec to prioritise entrepreneurs whose business plans align with provincial economic goals.
Who the Quebec Entrepreneur Program Is Designed For
The program is suitable for individuals who have prior experience in business ownership or senior management and are prepared to actively manage a Quebec-based enterprise. Applicants must demonstrate that they have the financial means to implement their business plan and the intention to reside in Quebec permanently.
While French language proficiency is not mandatory in every case, Quebec places increasing importance on linguistic integration. Applicants with French skills often benefit from greater flexibility and stronger selection outcomes.
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Entrepreneur Program Streams in Quebec
The Quebec Entrepreneur Program is divided into two streams, depending on the nature of the business project and the level of external support involved.
Stream 1: Supported Entrepreneur Projects
Stream 1 is intended for entrepreneurs launching innovative or growth-oriented businesses that receive formal support from recognised Quebec organisations. These organisations may include business incubators, accelerators, or university entrepreneurship centres. Under this stream, the applicant must present a viable business concept along with a formal support offer from a Quebec-based organisation. This organisation must demonstrate its ability to support the entrepreneur through mentoring, industry expertise, infrastructure, or strategic guidance. The support letter plays a critical role in the application. It must clearly outline how the organisation will assist the entrepreneur, the relevance of the project to the Quebec economy, and the feasibility of implementation. This stream is especially well-suited to startups, technology-based ventures, and innovative business models.
Stream 2: Business Creation or Business Acquisition
Stream 2 is designed for entrepreneurs who plan to start a new business or purchase an existing one in Quebec and manage it daily. Applicants under this stream must live in Quebec and play an active role in the business’s operations. A detailed business plan is required, outlining the nature of the business, market opportunity, operational strategy, and financial projections. Ownership requirements vary depending on whether the business is new or acquired. For a new business, the entrepreneur must own and control at least 25 per cent of the equity. For an acquired business, ownership and control must be at least 51 per cent. The business must be a legitimate commercial enterprise and must not have been repeatedly transferred through the same immigration program.
Financial Commitments and Deposits
Entrepreneurs applying under Stream 2 are required to demonstrate a concrete financial commitment to their business project. This includes placing a start-up deposit with a financial institution in Quebec. The required amount depends on the business location, with higher thresholds for businesses established in Montréal compared to other regions of Quebec. In addition, applicants must submit a refundable security deposit. This deposit may be returned if Quebec authorities confirm that the business plan has been implemented as approved. These financial requirements are designed to ensure that applicants are serious about executing their business projects.
Business Activities Not Accepted
Quebec does not accept certain business models under the Entrepreneur Program. Activities related to speculative real estate, payday lending, debt collection, insurance brokerage, or adult-oriented services are excluded. The province prioritises businesses that generate sustainable economic value and contribute positively to local communities.
French Language and Quebec Values
All applicants selected under Quebec immigration programs must demonstrate knowledge of Quebec’s democratic and societal values, either by passing a recognised test or completing an approved course. While French is not an absolute requirement for every applicant, Quebec continues to emphasise the importance of French-language integration. Entrepreneurs who can function in French often find it easier to establish businesses, integrate into local networks, and meet long-term settlement expectations.
Application Process for the Quebec Entrepreneur Program
Applications are accepted only during designated intake periods, except in limited cases involving strong French-language ability. The process includes:
Step 1: Quebec Selection (CSQ)
Applicants submit a complete provincial application that includes:
- Business plan
- Proof of net worth and source of funds
- Entrepreneurial or management experience
- Language ability documentation
- Support letters (for Stream 1, if applicable)
Successful applicants receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ).
Step 2: Federal Permanent Residence
After obtaining the CSQ, applicants apply to the federal government for permanent residence. This stage includes:
- Medical examinations
- Criminal background checks
- Security screening
Permanent residence is granted once both stages are approved.
Why Entrepreneurs Choose Quebec
Quebec offers a supportive environment for business immigrants due to:
- Access to North American and international markets
- Competitive operating costs outside major cities
- Publicly funded healthcare and education
- Free or subsidised French language training
- Settlement and integration support for newcomers
The province actively supports entrepreneurs who commit to long-term economic participation.
Alternative Business Immigration Options in Canada
Entrepreneurs who do not qualify under Quebec’s program may explore:
- The Canada Start-Up Visa Program for innovative ventures
- Entrepreneur-focused PNP streams in other provinces
- Work permit–based business pathways that lead to PR
Each pathway has different capital, risk, and involvement requirements.
Popular Immigration Programs
Professional Guidance for Quebec Entrepreneur Immigration
Business immigration applications involve complex eligibility rules, documentation standards, and strategic planning. Errors in business plans or financial disclosures can lead to refusals. Canada Immigration Global supports entrepreneurs through eligibility assessments, business plan strategy, CSQ preparation, and federal permanent residence processing, ensuring a structured and compliant application journey.