Canada offers some of the most attractive residence-by-investment programs globally, welcoming high-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs from around the world, including Pakistan.
With a stable economy, high quality of life, and access to world-class healthcare and education, Canada presents an ideal destination for families and business-minded individuals alike.
Whether through launching an innovative business or making a secure investment in Quebec, Pakistani investors can achieve Canadian permanent residency and eventually citizenship.
This guide explains the key options, benefits, requirements, and procedures tailored specifically for applicants from Pakistan.
What is the Residence by Investment Program?
Canada’s Residence by Investment Program offers a legal and structured pathway for foreign nationals, including Pakistani citizens, to obtain permanent residency through significant financial contribution and business innovation.
This initiative is designed for experienced investors and entrepreneurs who can contribute to Canada’s economy either by launching a qualifying start-up or making a government-backed investment, depending on the selected stream.
What are the Benefits of Residence by Investment in Canada
- Right to live, work, and retire anywhere in Canada
- Dual citizenship is allowed
- High standard of living with access to world-class education and healthcare
- No age or higher education restrictions
- Family inclusion: spouse and children under 22 can be part of the application
- Eligibility for Canadian citizenship after 1,095 days (3 years) of physical presence in five years
- Opportunity to do business in a G7 economy with access to the entire North American market
- Safe, politically stable, and multicultural environment
What are the Types of Residence by Investment?
Quebec Investor Immigration Program
This program is tailored for high-net-worth individuals aiming to invest in Quebec with a route to Canadian permanent residency. The key highlights include:
- Investment: CAD 1 million interest-free for 5 years (guaranteed by the Government of Quebec)
- Contribution: Non-refundable CAD 200,000 to Investissement Québec
- Experience: Minimum of two years of managerial experience within the past five years
- Net Worth: At least CAD 2 million
- Language: Intermediate spoken French (Level 7 or above)
- Education: Equivalent to a Quebec secondary school diploma
- Residency Requirement: Must stay in Quebec for at least 12 months within two years of receiving the work permit
Canada Start-Up Visa Program
Aimed at entrepreneurs and innovators, the SUV Program supports the creation of high-potential businesses in Canada. Key details:
- Investment Range: USD 215,000 to USD 275,000, depending on the business model
- Eligibility: Must propose an innovative business and secure support from a designated organization (incubator, angel investor group, or venture capital fund)
- Active Involvement: Must play an active role in managing the business
- Business Growth: Designed to create jobs and contribute to the Canadian economy
- Permanent Residency: Granted upon receiving a letter of support and meeting program requirements
What are the Requirements of Canada Residence by Investment?
- For QIIP:
- CAD 1 million government-backed investment (5 years, interest-free)
- CAD 200,000 non-refundable government contribution
- Minimum net worth: CAD 2 million
- Two years of relevant management experience
- French language proficiency
- Minimum education level: secondary school diploma
- For SUV:
- Investment of USD 215,000 to USD 275,000
- Business concept approved by a designated organization
- Commitment to actively run the start-up
- No age, education, or language restrictions
What are the procedures for obtaining Canadian residence through investment?
Start-Up Visa Program:
- Submit a business proposal to a designated organization
- Receive letter of support from approved group
- Apply for permanent residency
- Establish and actively manage the start-up in Canada
Quebec Investor Immigration Program:
- Apply for a Quebec work permit
- Receive approval and fulfill investment and contribution requirements
- Complete minimum residency period in Quebec (12 months in 2 years)
- Apply for permanent residency in Canada
What documents are needed to apply for Canadian citizenship?
- Valid permanent resident card
- Proof of physical presence for at least 1,095 days within the last 5 years
- Personal identification (e.g., passport, national ID)
- Tax returns (proof of tax compliance)
- Language proficiency test results (for applicants aged 18-54)
- Application form and fees
Read more: How to Get Permanent Resident for Canada from Pakistan
FAQs:
What types of investment pathways are available to qualify for Canadian permanent residency?
Two main pathways: the Quebec Investor Immigration Program (QIIP) and the Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program.
How can investors benefit from securing Canadian permanent residence through investment programs?
They gain the right to live and work in Canada, access healthcare and education, eventually apply for citizenship, and enjoy visa-free travel to over 180 destinations with a Canadian passport.
What is the minimum financial contribution needed to apply for Canada’s investor immigration program?
- SUV: USD 215,000 – 275,000
- QIIP: CAD 1.2 million total (CAD 1 million refundable investment + CAD 200,000 non-refundable contribution)
How long does it usually take for an investment-based residence application to be approved in Canada?
Processing times vary but typically range from 12 to 31 months, depending on the chosen stream and completeness of documentation.
Can I include my spouse and children in my Canadian investor visa application?
Yes. Both programs allow inclusion of spouse and dependent children under 22 years old in the same application.
