Becoming a permanent resident (PR) in Canada is one step below citizenship. Permanent residents are allowed to reside and work in Canada for as long as their PR status is valid. Canadian PRs do not get the benefits of citizenship in Canada (i.e. they cannot vote in Canada or apply for a Canadian passport). On the other hand, they also do not have to renounce their citizenship if their country of birth does not recognize dual citizenship.
The road to PR can be long, winding, and complex. You must apply as the spouse, child, or dependent of a Canadian citizen, and it can take years to receive your status. While living in Canada is a dream for many, the PR process can be a rude awakening. So, if your situation allows for it, the Quebec Entrepreneur Program (QEP) is a great alternative for foreign nationals who wish to immigrate to Canada’s only French-speaking province.
What is the Quebec Entrepreneur Program
The Quebec Entrepreneur Program is a path to permanent residency for individuals who wish to own and operate a business in Quebec. Applicants can either open a new business or take over an existing one, and can either be sole proprietors or bring on partners to help run the company. Check out our infographic and the accompanying article for a quick and easy breakdown of the program.
First-Come, First-Served
One of the most attractive aspects of the QEP is that it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. While many other paths to immigration select the most qualified profiles from an extremely large and diverse pool of applicants, the QEP doesn’t compare one candidate to another.
Instead, QEP spots are granted to whichever applicants cross the finish line – i.e. submit their candidacy – first, as long as they meet the following requirements.
What are the Quebec Entrepreneur
Program Requirements?
The QEP is divided into two different streams: one for applicants who are opening a new business, and another for both new and existing businesses.
Is this Route Towards Permanent Residency Right for you?
Determining the best solution for your personal situation can be a challenge – that’s why having a professional on your side is the best way to stack the odds in your favour. The attorneys at Exeo know the QEP inside and out: contact us today to find out more about how we can help.
