The process through the base program can be summarized as follows:

1. Preparation and research: Before applying to the BC PNP - Base program, you must first determine your eligibility based on the stream requirements. It is recommended to conduct an exploratory visit to British Columbia to learn about business opportunities, the local market, and find the most suitable community to establish your business.

2. Registration to the BC PNP: Create a profile and submit an online registration to the BC PNP, providing details about your work and/or business experience, education, language ability, net worth, and information about your proposed business in British Columbia. Registrations are typically scored within six weeks, and if invited to apply, you will have four months to submit your application.

3. Application to the BC PNP: Submit a complete application to the BC PNP, and you may be invited to attend an in-person interview in Vancouver, B.C., to discuss the details of your application. If approved, you'll sign a performance agreement outlining the requirements you must meet to be nominated. Applications are usually assessed within four months, and upon approval, you'll receive a letter of confirmation (work permit support letter) to apply for a work permit from IRCC and begin implementing your business plan in B.C.

4. Business establishment (work permit) period: After obtaining a work permit, you can start implementing your business plan, making investments, and creating jobs in British Columbia. Additionally, your spouse or common-law partner may apply for an open work permit.

5. Nomination: Once you fulfill the terms and conditions of your performance agreement, you must submit a Final Report to the BC PNP. If the BC PNP determines that you have met the requirements, you will be nominated for permanent residence. Final Reports are typically assessed within four months.

6. Application for permanent residence: After receiving the nomination, you, along with your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children (if applicable), may apply to IRCC to become permanent residents of Canada under the Provincial Nominee class.

The initial online application for the program is divided between the self-declared adaptability and the business concept.

To qualify, a minimum total score of 115 points is required, with a total of 200 points available. The self-declared section is worth 120 points, while the business concept section carries 80 points. Must score a minimum of 40 points on the business concept.

The breakdown of points is as follows:

Self-Declared Adaptability:

• Experience & Ownership: A maximum of 24 points can be obtained in this category.

• Net Worth: Up to 12 points can be awarded based on the declared net worth.

• Total Personal Investment: This criterion carries a weight of 20 points.

• Jobs: The number of jobs that will be created or maintained by the business can contribute to a maximum of 12 points.

• Development region: The population of the development region where the business will be located can earn up to 12 points.

• Self-declared Adaptability: This section carries the highest weight with a maximum score of 40 points.

Business Concept:

• Commercial Viability: The viability of the proposed business concept can earn a maximum of 30 points.

• Transferability of Skills: Up to 15 points can be awarded based on the extent to which your skills can be transferred to the proposed business.

• Economic Benefits: The potential economic benefits of the business concept can contribute to a maximum of 35 points.

Eligible

To be eligible for the BC PNP - Base program, you must propose to establish a new business or purchase and improve an existing business that contributes to the economic growth of the province. Franchises may also be considered eligible if they meet specific criteria, such as being well-established and having the necessary support from the franchisor.

Ineligible

The following types of businesses are ineligible for the BC PNP - Base program:

• Immigration-linked investment schemes

• Businesses with redemption options in their investment terms

• Businesses that may be considered passive investments

• Bed and breakfasts, hobby farms, and home-based businesses

• Payday loan, cheque cashing, money changing, and cash machine businesses

• Pawnbrokers, tanning salons, DVD rental stores, coin-operated laundries, automated car wash operations, and scrap metal recycling businesses

• Businesses selling used goods without value-added services

• Real estate brokerage, insurance brokerage, and business brokerage

• Real estate development activities

• Goods trading businesses (e.g., import/export) without demonstrated value-add

• Businesses involved in producing, distributing, or selling pornography or sexually explicit products or services, or providing sexually oriented services

• Any other type of business that may bring the BC PNP or the Government of British Columbia into disrepute.

The BC PNP will not consider a business proposal for a seasonal business unless you can demonstrate that you will be physically present in British Columbia and will perform an active management role on a year-round basis.

Yes, if you are proposing to establish a new farm/agricultural business or purchase an existing one, there are additional requirements. Your business plan should address the issues described in the document "Taking Stock: A Farm Business Planning Workbook For The Beginning Farmer" prepared by the Ministry of Agriculture. Additionally, your plan must demonstrate that you have thoroughly researched the feasibility of your farming operation and have established contact with relevant local stakeholders who can provide support to your enterprise.

Yes, some industries face significant regulatory requirements in Canada. While many of these highly regulated industry sectors remain eligible for the BC PNP, entrepreneurs must demonstrate that they are aware of and will be able to meet local, provincial, and federal regulatory requirements. Failure to adequately research and address these requirements may impact the approval of the application and meeting performance agreement obligations. Examples of highly regulated industries include agriculture, cannabis, financial services, healthcare, oil and gas, telecommunications, and more.