British Columbia (BC) has recently conducted a selection under its Entrepreneur Immigration Program, emphasizing the attraction of business owners to stimulate job creation and local economic growth.

Candidates were invited based on their potential to initiate a new business or take over and expand an existing one in BC.

Draw Results

On January 13, 2026, the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) issued invitations through the Base stream of its Entrepreneur Immigration Program. The minimum score required and the number of invitations issued were as follows:

Date	Stream	Minimum Score	Number of Invitations
January 13, 2026	Base	115	7

Throughout 2025, the BC PNP held numerous draws through the Base stream, resulting in a significant number of invitations to apply (ITAs).

Base Entrepreneur Stream

The Base Entrepreneur Immigration stream caters to seasoned entrepreneurs aiming to establish or acquire a business in British Columbia, without the need for a community referral. It typically entails higher financial prerequisites compared to the Regional stream.

Entrepreneurs can also invest in or expand an existing BC business, often with a minimum one-third ownership stake.

Process Overview

Entrepreneur candidates generally progress through the following steps:

• Register in the entrepreneur system and receive a score;
• Receive an invitation in a draw;
• Apply, obtain a work permit, and operate the business;
• Obtain a nomination for permanent residence if all program conditions are met.

Upon nomination, candidates can apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).