Archive - Looking for a safe place to make an investment?

Published: 30 March 2009

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Canada's banking system is renowned for its stability. And Canada is recognized for its superior quality of life. Through the Canadian Immigrant Investor Program, you and your family could qualify for fast-track Canadian Permanent Residency…and your money is secure.

The Immigrant Investor Program, a category of Canadian Federal Business Immigration, is an important option for wealthy business people who wish to immigrate to Canada.

To qualify as an investor, you will be required to make a C$400,000 investment in Canada. Your funds will be managed by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), and will be returned to you after about five years, without interest. In the meantime, your investment will be used by provincial governments to create jobs, boost regional economies, and build a stronger Canada.

In uncertain financial times, Canada is a solid place to invest your money. The World Economic Forum has recently given Canada top prize for its "soundness of banks" among 134 countries, many of whom are currently looking to Canada as a model as they attempt to restructure their unstable banking systems. Additionally, Canadian securities firms are currently welcoming top talent from major financial hubs such as London and New York, who are flocking to Toronto where job prospects for bankers and traders are much more promising.

In addition to the C$400,000 investment requirement, Immigrant Investor applicants must demonstrate that they have at least two years of business management experience and a minimum net worth of C$800,000. The fair market value of all your assets and the assets of your spouse or common-law partner may be combined (minus your combined liabilities) to reach this net worth requirement.

You will also need to obtain at least 35 points on a selection grid based on your education, business experience, English/French language ability, age, and adaptability, and you will need to satisfy medical and security requirements.

Federal Business immigration applications receive priority processing; however, processing times vary depending on which visa office your application will be submitted to.

Once approved, you (along with any dependents) will be issued a Canada Permanent Resident visa, and all the rights and freedoms that it provides. Canada offers a safe, stable environment for both family life and business interests, with its first-rate education and healthcare systems, reliable banking structure, and high quality of life.