British Columbia continues to demonstrate its commitment to attracting entrepreneurial talent from around the world. On April 15, 2025, the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) conducted its third Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Stream draw of the year, issuing five Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency through provincial nomination.
This latest draw marks a strategic move in British Columbia’s ongoing efforts to bolster its economy by attracting experienced and financially capable business leaders who are ready to invest and create jobs in the province.
Summary of the April 15 BCPNP Entrepreneur Draw
Here’s a breakdown of the draw details:
| Draw Category | Number of Invitations Issued | Cut-off Score |
|---|---|---|
| Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Stream | 5 | 115 |
The minimum score required in this draw was 115, maintaining a competitive standard for those applying under this stream. This indicates that the province continues to prioritize high-potential business candidates capable of making a tangible economic impact.
What Is the BCPNP Entrepreneur Immigration Base Stream?
The Entrepreneur Immigration Base Stream is a pathway for experienced business people from around the world who are interested in investing and establishing a business in British Columbia. Candidates under this stream may start a new business or purchase an existing one in the province, with the goal of driving economic growth and job creation.
This stream is ideal for entrepreneurs who wish to settle in B.C. permanently and contribute to the local economy through innovation, investment, and job creation.
Eligibility Criteria: BCPNP Entrepreneur Base Stream
To qualify under the Base Stream, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
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Minimum Registration Score: 115 points
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Net Worth Requirement: At least $600,000 CAD
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Minimum Investment: At least $200,000 CAD in a new or existing business
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Ownership Requirement: Own at least one-third (33.33%) of the business, or make an equity investment of $1 million CAD
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Language Proficiency: CLB 4 or higher in English or French
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Education: At least a two-year post-secondary diploma OR
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Three years of experience as a business owner-manager,
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Four years as a senior business manager, OR
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A combination of one year as an owner-manager and two years as a senior manager
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Job Creation: The proposed business must create at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee an invitation, as candidates are ranked and selected based on a scoring system that evaluates experience, investment, adaptability, and business proposal viability.
Why Is British Columbia Attracting Entrepreneurs?
British Columbia’s economy is one of the most diverse and dynamic in Canada, offering a rich environment for innovation, technology, resource industries, and tourism. By inviting qualified entrepreneurs, the province aims to:
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Stimulate regional economies
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Create employment opportunities for residents
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Enhance innovation and competitiveness
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Diversify local business communities
With global interest in Canadian immigration growing, B.C. is positioning itself as a top destination for foreign entrepreneurs.
Understanding the Scoring System
The registration score for the Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Stream is determined based on several key factors:
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Experience in Business or Management
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Net Worth and Personal Assets
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Proposed Investment Amount
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Business Concept and Viability
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Location of the Business (certain regions receive more points)
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Language Proficiency
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Adaptability (education, previous travel or work in Canada)
Higher scores increase a candidate’s chances of receiving an invitation. In recent draws, the cut-off scores have consistently hovered around 115, highlighting the competitive nature of the stream.
Regional Pilot: An Alternative Stream for Smaller Communities
While the Base Stream focuses on businesses in any region of B.C., the Entrepreneur Immigration – Regional Pilot offers an alternative path for entrepreneurs interested in smaller communities.
Key features of the Regional Pilot include:
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Lower net worth requirement (as low as $300,000)
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Minimum investment of $100,000
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Mandatory exploratory visit to a participating community
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Letter of support from the local economic development office
This stream is ideal for candidates who prefer the lifestyle and opportunities of smaller towns and want to contribute to regional development.
Recent Changes to the BCPNP in 2025
British Columbia has implemented significant changes to the PNP in 2025, affecting both skilled worker and entrepreneur categories. These include:
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Closure of several program streams
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Temporary moratoriums on new applications in select categories
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Stricter prioritization criteria, especially for high-impact candidates
Throughout 2025, B.C. is placing increased emphasis on:
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Front-line healthcare workers
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High economic impact entrepreneurs
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Professionals in critical occupations
These changes are aligned with provincial labor market goals and economic development priorities.
How to Apply for the BCPNP Entrepreneur Immigration Stream
Step 1: Prepare Your Application
Gather documentation showing your business experience, net worth, investment funds, and proposed business concept.
Step 2: Register Online
Create a profile with BCPNP and submit your registration. Candidates are then scored and entered into a selection pool.
Step 3: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If selected, you’ll receive an ITA. You must then submit a detailed application with supporting documents.
Step 4: Attend an Interview (if required)
You may be invited for an in-person or virtual interview to discuss your business plan and background.
Step 5: Obtain Work Permit and Start Business
Upon approval, you’ll receive a work permit to begin operating your business in B.C. Once your business meets program criteria, you can apply for provincial nomination and, eventually, permanent residency.
Final Thoughts
The latest draw under British Columbia’s Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Stream reaffirms the province’s strategic focus on attracting high-quality business leaders who can contribute meaningfully to the local economy.
With a transparent points system, clear eligibility requirements, and multiple streams tailored to different regions and investor profiles, the BCPNP remains one of the most attractive provincial nominee programs for global entrepreneurs.
Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or a visionary investor, British Columbia offers a compelling opportunity to establish a business in one of Canada’s most beautiful and economically vibrant provinces.
