British Columbia Invites Candidates Through Entrepreneur Immigration Streams

The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) has invited more international candidates to apply for immigration through its Entrepreneur Immigration (EI) streams.

These invitations were given to individuals who plan to either start a new business or purchase an existing one in British Columbia. The selection was based on several factors, including business plans and where the business would be located.

Latest Draw Details

On May 28, BC PNP held draws under both of its Entrepreneur Immigration streams. A total of 14 invitations were issued across the two categories:

So far in 2025, BC has held eight entrepreneur-focused draws, while only one draw has taken place under the province’s skills-based streams.

About the EI Streams

BC PNP’s Entrepreneur Immigration pathway has two main streams:

• EI Regional Stream
• EI Base Stream

These programs are for foreign nationals who want to invest in and run a business in British Columbia.

EI Regional Stream

This stream is designed for entrepreneurs who wish to start a new business in a rural community. Purchasing an existing business is not allowed under this stream. Applicants must also be referred by a participating community, and draws are held roughly once a month for eligible candidates.

EI Base Stream

This stream offers more flexibility. Entrepreneurs can either start a new business or purchase an existing one anywhere in the province—including large cities like Vancouver. Unlike the Regional Stream, the EI Base Stream does not require community endorsement.

How Candidates Are Selected

For the EI Base Stream, invitations may be issued based on:

• The applicant’s overall registration score
• The specific region where they plan to establish their business
• The size of the community
• Whether they’re buying a business or launching a new one
• Whether the business idea matches the province’s priority sectors

Draws that focus only on score rankings may be limited to maintain smooth processing and to focus more on targeted invitations.

Key Differences Between the Two Streams

Aside from location and endorsement requirements, the EI Regional and EI Base streams also differ in:

• Minimum net worth of the applicant
• Required investment amount
• Ownership share in the business
• Timeframe to submit progress reports

These entrepreneur streams offer a unique way for foreign nationals to immigrate to British Columbia by contributing to the local economy through business and innovation.

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