WHY SHOULD A PAKISTANI CITIZEN CONSIDER APPLYING FOR CANADA?

Yesterday, I accidentally ran into one of my long-time clients while he was with his son, waiting for his wife to finish shopping. I invited them for coffee, and we were later joined by one of his friends. Our conversation began with general catch-up and quickly shifted to how his life changed after becoming a Caribbean citizen and the impact of his global citizenship on his business. One topic led to another, and we found ourselves discussing the brain drain occurring in Pakistan.

Like many parents, including myself, he expressed concern about his family's future and the prospects for his business in Pakistan. He mentioned that political instability, economic challenges, and the lack of research and growth opportunities had driven him to Dubai to explore potential relocation.

His friend was considering moving to Canada, and since I'm from the Investment Migration Industry and a Pakistani citizen, I was asked for my thoughts on the matter. I mentioned that both the UAE and Canada provide access to thriving markets and supportive environments for business, making them attractive destinations for entrepreneurs. However, relocating to the UAE versus Canada comes with key differences that can significantly affect business operations, growth potential, and the overall environment. For example, the UAE is known for its tax-friendly policies, while Canada has a more regulated business landscape with corporate taxes.

After discussing the pros and cons, Canada emerged as the better option based on their specific business goals, industry, target markets, and personal lifestyle preferences, what we discussed was Canada Start-up visa and sharing some of the highlihts about the program here in this article.

?

CANADA START-UP VISA PROGRAM

This visa category is designed to attract entrepreneurial talent to Canada by providing a pathway for innovative business founders to become permanent residents.

This visa suits individuals (innovative entrepreneurs, established business owners, tech start-ups, investors, founders who can assemble a strong team to support their business venture, risk-tolerant Individuals who are comfortable with the inherent risks of starting a new business in a foreign market) ready to commit to building and growing their business in Canada and are looking for a pathway to permanent residency and eventually Canadian citizenship (one of the most valued passports for international travel).

WHY SHOULD A PAKISTANI CITIZEN CONSIDER APPLYING FOR CANADA? ?

Canada is one of the most popular destinations for investor immigrants wishing to relocate, and is one of 22 countries that government of Pakistan has dual nationality arrangements with without renouncing the nationality. It consistently ranks high on major comparative surveys of industrialized nations.

Canada offers world-class health care system, and an excellent education system (one of the most respected in the world) and much more.

?

WHAT IS THE BENEFIT FOR CANADA START-UP VISA?

There are numerous advantages, the most significant being that all successful applicants and their families can achieve Permanent Residency in Canada and eventually Canadian citizenship, provided they meet the necessary conditions. The program links entrepreneurs with a network of business leaders, mentors, and potential partners, while also facilitating investment from designated Canadian organizations to offer essential financial support.

Canada has a robust innovation ecosystem, featuring various resources, incubators, and accelerators designed to support startups.

AM I ELIGIBLE?

Like any other program to be qualified or eligible, the applicant must have a qualifying business idea that is supported by a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator), the business must be incorporated and operated in Canada and the applicants must hold a minimum percentage of the business shares.

?Applicant must secure a commitment from a designated organization, which involves pitching your business idea and getting their backing.

?A minimum language proficiency in English or French is required, typically assessed through standardized tests (CLB 5).

?Applicants need to demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves and any accompanying family members upon arrival in Canada.

?

WHY WOULD I NEED AN ADVISOR?

Applying for the Canada Start-Up Visa can be quite complex, especially when evaluating your business idea and developing a viable plan. Connecting with designated organizations to secure a letter of support can be challenging, as not all business ideas qualify, trust me applying for this visa category is competitive, with many applicants vying for limited support from designated organizations, navigating the Canadian laws and regulations can be complex and time-consuming for those that are unaware.

After obtaining your letter of support, you'll need to gather the necessary documents for business incorporation and submiting your application for Permanent Residency. As a seasoned consultants, this process is routine, as we've navigated it multiple times—often hundreds.

Once your application is approved and you’re in Canada, you can focus on establishing and growing your business. However, during the application process, it’s essential to have someone to guide you from point A to B.