Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) – Entrepreneur Stream

Start, purchase, or manage a business in Nova Scotia and secure a pathway to Canadian Permanent Residency.

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At a glance

Quick facts

Minimum investment: CA$150,000; Currency: CAD

Typical timeline: 18 months; From application start

Highlights

Canada
Nova Scotia
Entrepreneur Stream
Residency by Investment

~10 sec

Quick eligibility check

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1Do you have at least 3 years of business ownership experience?

Yes

2Can you invest at least CAD 150,000 in a Nova Scotia business?

Yes

Select answers above to get an instant indication and tailored next steps.

Program overview

The Nova Scotia Entrepreneur Stream under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is aimed at experienced business owners and senior managers who wish to establish, purchase, or manage a business while living in Nova Scotia. This stream provides a clear route to Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) through active business operation and contribution to the local economy.

Investment overview

Applicants must invest a minimum of CAD 150,000 into a new or existing Nova Scotia business and own at least 33.3% of it. They must demonstrate a net worth of at least CAD 600,000, verified by a professional. The business must create one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

Costs & proof of funds

Costs & funds

Program fees & proof of funds

Estimated program totals

CAD: CA$750,000

Required proof of funds

CAD: CA$600,000

Detailed fee table

Program fee breakdown with price, timing and notes.
Item	Price	When	Notes
Minimum Business Investment	CA$150,000	At the time of business setup or purchase	To establish or purchase a business in Nova Scotia.
Net Worth Requirement	CA$600,000	Before submitting full application	Verified by a third-party financial professional.
Language Requirement	CA$0	During eligibility assessment	Minimum CLB/NCLC 5 in English or French.
Application Fee	CA$0	At the time of submitting full application	Non-refundable once processing begins.

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We’ll share a personalized cost sheet after your pre-screen.

Proof of funds

Net Worth ProofCA$600,000
Must be verified by an approved third-party professional.

Required (CAD): CA$600,000

Figures are indicative and may change with family size, project selection and program updates.

Eligibility

At least 3 years of business ownership or 5 years of management experience.
Minimum net worth of CAD 600,000 verified by a third party.
Invest a minimum of CAD 150,000 in a new or existing business.
Own at least one-third of the business and create one full-time job.
Minimum CLB 5 language proficiency and Canadian high school education.
Attend an in-person interview or exploratory visit in Nova Scotia.

Key benefits

Pathway to Canadian permanent residency after one year of business operation.
Lower investment requirement than other provincial entrepreneur programs.
Include spouse and dependents in the same PR application.
Access Nova Scotia’s strong economy and skilled talent pool.
Efficient processing for qualified business investors.

Application process

Process

How it works

5 steps

Step 1: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
Register your EOI through Nova Scotia’s online immigration system.
GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
Step 2: Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Top-scoring profiles receive an ITA based on eligibility points.
GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
Step 3: Submit Full Application
Provide verified net worth documents and a detailed business plan.
GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
Step 4: Attend Interview & Get Work Permit Support
Discuss your proposal in Nova Scotia and receive a work permit letter.
GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
Step 5: Operate Business & Apply for PR
Run your business for at least one year before applying for PR nomination.
GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks