Exploring Residency by Investment: A Comparative Analysis of the USA and Canada

Residencies & citizenships
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Introduction:

For entrepreneurs seeking a new beginning in North America through investment, the dilemma of “USA or Canada?” is a critical decision point. This article dissects the “Permanent Residence by Investment” programs in both countries - the renowned EB-5 program in the USA and Canada’s Entrepreneur pathway, known as C11. These pathways offer routes to secure permanent residency or a Green Card through strategic investments in business ventures.

USA’s EB-5 Visa Program:

In the United States, the EB-5 program acts as a gateway for foreign investors. To obtain this investor visa, one must invest in either a new or existing American business. Upon approval, conditional temporary residency is granted for two years, paving the way for a Green Card and permanent residence.

Canada’s Entrepreneur Program:

Canada, known for its diverse business immigration options, boasts the C11 Entrepreneur Stream tailored for foreign investors and entrepreneurs. This program requires the establishment of a new business or acquisition of an existing one in Canada. Upon C11 approval, a Canadian work permit is issued for two years, leading to a path to permanent residency.

Choosing Between the USA and Canada for Permanent Residence by Investment:

While both the US EB-5 Program and Canada’s Entrepreneur streams offer paths to permanent residency, their procedures significantly differ. Canada’s C11 Entrepreneur stream stands out for its flexibility, efficiency, and accessibility to foreign entrepreneurs, investors, and businesses.

Factors to Consider: Canada vs. US Immigration:

1. Flexibility in Entrepreneur Immigration:

Canada provides a higher degree of flexibility in business immigration compared to the United States, offering diverse avenues for foreign business owners, including business transfers, franchise investments, or establishing new ventures.

2. Education:

The cost of education in Canada is notably more affordable than in the United States, making Canada’s residency by investment appealing, especially for those planning their children’s college or university education.

3. Healthcare:

Canada provides free public healthcare, a feature absent in the United States, making it a critical factor for those considering citizenship by investment.

How Business Immigration Works:

Regardless of applying for an EB-5 Visa or an Entrepreneur Visa, the fundamental concept of business immigration remains consistent – investing in a business within the country of intended immigration. Investment amounts, processing times, job creation requirements, and timeframes for achieving permanent residency vary significantly.

Comparative Overview:

Aspect:

  1. Investment Amount:

    • USA (EB-5): $800,000 to $1,050,000 USD
    • Canada (C11): No minimum, recommended - $250,000 CAD

  2. Job Creation:

    • USA (EB-5): At least 10 jobs
    • Canada (C11): 2+

  3. Processing Times:

    • USA (EB-5): Stage 1 - 18-29 months
    • Canada (C11): 3 weeks – 4 months

  4. Family Members:

    • USA (EB-5): Eligible to join the principal applicant
    • Canada (C11): Spouse - eligible for work permit; Children - free schooling (excluding post-secondary education)

  5. Time to PR:

    • USA (EB-5): 4+ years
    • Canada (C11): 2+ years

  6. Language Proficiency:

    • USA (EB-5): Not required
    • Canada (C11): May be required

Conclusion:

Choosing between permanent residency through investment in the United States or Canada demands a comprehensive assessment of factors such as investment prerequisites, job creation mandates, processing durations, and treatment of dependent children. Individual circumstances and objectives play a pivotal role, and seeking legal counsel is advisable to navigate the complexities of these immigration procedures. Note that this information is subject to potential changes.

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At what stage of one’s Canadian journey does one receive free healthcare? Permanent residence?

Its a good write up – thanks – but why have a Conclusion that says “it depends”? That’s the introduction! :sweat_smile:

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I suspect this is just AI spam. Reads exactly like ChatGPT

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Once you’ve obtained your permanent residency and settled into your new home for three months, the assessment of qualifications is customized to each individual case, taking into account specific conditions and circumstances.

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Thank you for this helpful summary information. I think I looked into Canada at one point, but it would be good to have this information here.

  1. Do either of these paths lead to citizenship?
  2. What is the minimum stay requirement to maintain temporary residency?
  3. Once permanent residency is received, what are the minimum stay requirements to maintain it?
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There are different paths to citizenship in Canada, depending on your situation. Some of the common ways are:

• Applying as a permanent resident who has lived in Canada for at least 3 out of the last 5 years
• Applying as a spouse or common-law partner of a Canadian citizen who has lived in Canada for at least 3 years in the last 5 years
• Applying as a child or adopted child of a Canadian citizen
• Applying as a current or former member of the Canadian Armed Forces or a family member of one
• Applying as a past Canadian citizen who wants to resume their citizenship

To maintain your temporary resident status in Canada, you must comply with the conditions of your visa or permit, such as the purpose and duration of your stay. You may also need to show that you have enough funds to support yourself and your family in Canada. If you want to extend your stay, you must apply before your current status expires.

To keep your permanent resident status, you must have been in Canada for at least 730 days during the last 5 years. These 730 days don’t need to be continuous. Some of your time outside Canada may count towards the 730 days

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Thank you!