The province of British Columbia reactivated its selection process for overseas entrepreneurs this week (April 15) through its Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). This latest invitation round focused specifically on the Entrepreneur Immigration category's "Base Stream" and marked the third such draw for this stream in 2025.

Official data reveals that a total of 5 applicants successfully received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) based on their qualifications and business proposals, taking a crucial step towards potential permanent residency in Canada. The minimum score required to receive an invitation was 115 points. This score threshold remains consistent with previous draws for this category, indicating the province's sustained high standards for entrepreneur applicants.

Base Stream Features Strict Criteria, Focuses on High-Value Contribution

To qualify for the Base Stream, applicants must meet a series of stringent criteria designed to ensure their investments yield tangible economic benefits and job growth for British Columbia. Core requirements include:

The minimum eligibility requirements for this stream are:

• Have a registration score of at least 115 points;
• Have a net worth of at least $600,000;
• Have a minimum language proficiency equal to CLB 4 or higher;
• Be willing to personally invest at least $200,000 into the established or purchased business;
• Demonstrate the intention of owning at least one-third of the business, or be willing to make an equity investment of $1 million; and
• Have the equivalent of a two-year post-secondary diploma or one of the following forms of work experience:
• Three years as a business owner-manager;
• Four years as a senior business manager; or
• A combination of one year as an active business owner-manager and two years as a senior business manager.

Furthermore, the applicant's business plan must demonstrate the creation of at least one new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident in BC.

Other Entrepreneur Pathways and Policy Context

In addition to the Base Stream, the BC PNP offers the "Regional Entrepreneur Stream." This category specifically targets applicants planning to establish a business in designated participating regional communities within BC. The Regional stream features lower minimum net worth and investment requirements but mandates a mandatory exploratory visit to the target community and securing a referral (Letter of Support) from the community.

It is important to note that British Columbia has recently implemented significant adjustments to its Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). These changes include the permanent closure of several immigration sub-categories, the temporary suspension of draws for certain streams (like specific occupations under Skilled Immigration), and limitations on the acceptance of new applications. The provincial government has clearly stated that throughout 2025, priority will be given to front-line healthcare workers, as well as high-economic-impact entrepreneurs and skilled workers capable of filling critical labour market gaps.

The results of this Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Stream draw reaffirm British Columbia's strategy of employing high standards when selecting immigrant applicants, particularly those seeking residency through investment and entrepreneurship pathways. For prospective applicants, thoroughly understanding and meeting all rigorous requirements, while presenting a robust business plan and demonstrating strong management capabilities, will be crucial for success.