I've read the provisions for self-employed persons to immigrate under the business class, and I was just wondering if anyone knew what the approximate waiting time on such applications might be. I'm talking with a friend of mine who offered me an opportunity to take his business model and his products to start my own business. I would consider staying where I am, but my girlfriend lives way up north and I'd like to settle there if possible. Although I wouldn't mind working w/ a temporary work visa for the time being, I'm hoping to establish something with more permanence. A Canadian friend of mine moved his business to the U.S. and got citizenship within months. (He hired an immigration attorney.) I'm not sure how that works for U.S. Citizens, but if anyone has any experience or related knowledge, I'd love some feedback.

Thanks again for all the help so far!

Isaiah

You should expect a delay of approximately 18-22 months for this type of case. It may be possible to gain temporary admission at an earlier date on the basis of a work permit, but more details of the case would be required to make an evaluation.

Interesting - thanks for the reply. I believe that when my Canadian friend originally came to the U.S. to start his business, he had to first get a work permit, so I guess it would make sense that I would need to do the same to take a business to Canada. Most of the information I've found online pertains to work permits for those with Canadian job offers - do you know where I can find some information about entrepreneur-class work permits? I'll be looking around and possibly talking with some immigration consultants, but any addition info would be terrific.

Thanks again,
Isaiah

There are a several main approaches to seeking a work permit for an individual establishing a business in Canada:

1. If the individual is seeking to establish a division of a foreign business; the intra-company transferee provisions can be used;

2. If the individual is a US citizen and investing into said business, the NAFTA Investor category would be viable;

3. If the individual is seeking admission as a permanent resident in the Entrepreneur category and has been selected, the provisions of Significant Benefit to Canada may apply;

4. Finally HRSDC Confirmation can be sought on the grounds of the prospective positive labour market impact.

If you are seeking more specific guidance regarding your own business endeavour, I would suggest that you make use of the work visa assessment.