What kind of Visa is needed for self employment in Canada

[jessan41]

Okay, so my friend is also considering maybe starting his own business or looking at contract work when he comes to Canada from Scotland. Is there a particular Visa required for doing that or is it similar to the US where as long as you can show a business plan, funding and will provide jobs for Americans, you can stay?

Thanks in advance.

 

[scylla]

If he is interested in coming to Canada to work temporarily - then no, there is no such visa. If he wants to work in Canada temporarily, then he first needs to find an employer in Canada who is willing to offer him a full time job. That employer must then obtain an approved Labour Market Opinion - and then your friend will be able to apply for a work permit tied to that specific job.

If he is interested in immigrating to Canada and becoming a permanent resident, then he should be looking here:

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/business/index.asp

Note that he most likely doesn't qualify in the self-employment category - he most likely would want to look at the start up visa.

 

[jessan41]

Just reviewed the link you sent. Very interesting program but must be very new as they don't even have any examples of wait times yet. Still makes me fairly optimistic that this might be the bet route for him to take if he decides he wants to move here as it fits best with his experience and background.

Thanks so much for your help!