British Columbia

Provincial Nominee Program

Entrepreneur Immigration
Base Category
Program Guide

The information in this guide is effective March 14, 2019

This guide is designed to help you understand and navigate the Entrepreneur
Immigration – Base Category, including the registration and application
processes. If you require more information, we are here to help:

BC Provincial Nominee Program

450-605 Robson Street
Vancouver, B.C. V6B 5J3
Canada

Office hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays
Phone: 604-775-2227 (voicemail only)
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.WelcomeBC.ca/PNP

In the event of a discrepancy between the BC PNP website and the Entrepreneur Immigration
– Base Category Program Guide, the information in the program guide shall be considered
correct. Please check our website regularly to ensure you are using the most up-to-date
version of the applicable program guide.

Beware of immigration fraud

We encourage you to protect yourself from immigration fraud.
Learn more about protecting yourself from fraud.

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 1: Introduction & Overview 2

The information in this guide is effective March 14, 2019. Please check our website to ensure you are using the correct version.
Table of Contents

Updates to this Edition ................................................................................................ 4

Part 1: Introduction & Overview ................................................................................. 5
1.1. About the EI – Base Category Program Guide ........................................................................ 6
1.2. Categories at a Glance ......................................................................................................... 7
1.3. EI – Base Category Process at a Glance ................................................................................. 8
Part 2: EI – Base Category Requirements ................................................................... 9
2.1. General Nomination Requirements ...................................................................................... 10
2.2. Personal Requirements ...................................................................................................... 11
2.3. Business Requirements ...................................................................................................... 14
2.4. Minimum Investment Requirements .................................................................................... 17
2.5. Job Requirements .............................................................................................................. 20
2.6. Key Staff Applicant Requirements (if applicable) ................................................................... 22
2.7. Partnership with a Co-Registrant (if applicable) .................................................................... 24
Part 3: EI – Base Category: Step-by-Step Process ................................................... 26
3.1. Preparation Before You Register ......................................................................................... 27
3.2. Registering with the BC PNP ............................................................................................... 30
3.3. Applying to the BC PNP ...................................................................................................... 35
3.4. Work permit ...................................................................................................................... 40
3.5. Nomination ....................................................................................................................... 42
3.6. After Nomination ............................................................................................................... 45
Part 4: General Program Information ....................................................................... 46
4.1. Withdrawing your Registration or Application ....................................................................... 46
4.2. BC PNP Withdrawal of your Nomination or Application .......................................................... 46
4.3. Request for Review............................................................................................................ 48
4.4. Misrepresentation .............................................................................................................. 49
4.5. Refusal to Accept an Application or Registration ................................................................... 49
4.6. Use of Representative ........................................................................................................ 50
4.7. Definitions ........................................................................................................................ 52
Part 5: EI – Base Category Registration Scoring Guide ............................................ 53
5.1. Self-declared scores ......................................................................................... 54
5.1 (A) Experience and Business Ownership ....................................................................... 54
5.1 (B) Net Worth............................................................................................................ 55
5.1 (C) Total Personal Investment ..................................................................................... 56
5.1 (D) Jobs Created / Maintained ..................................................................................... 57
5.1 (E) B.C. Regional District Population ............................................................................ 58
5.1 (F) Adaptability Factors .............................................................................................. 60
5.2. Business Concept Scoring ................................................................................ 63
5.2 (A) General Information ............................................................................................. 63
5.2 (B) Commercial Viability ............................................................................................. 66
5.2 (C) Transferability of Skills .......................................................................................... 72
5.2 (D) Economic Benefits ................................................................................................ 75

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 1: Introduction & Overview 3

The information in this guide is effective March 14, 2019. Please check our website to ensure you are using the correct version.
Updates to this Edition

In an effort to clarify information presented in previous editions of the Entrepreneur Immigration

Program Guide, there have been updates to the information within the guide.

Changes have been made in regards to formatting, general layout, and content information. The
following list outlines the updates made to this edition of the Entrepreneur Immigration – Base
Category Program Guide:

March 14, 2019:

1. References to the Entrepreneur Immigration stream or program have been updated to

“Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category” or “EI – Base Category”. The EI – Base Category
and EI – Regional Pilot fall under the Entrepreneur Immigration stream

2. References to “BC PNP-qualified supplier” and “qualified supplier” have been changed to “BC
PNP-authorized accounting firm” or “authorized accounting firm”

3. Edits throughout for grammatical accuracy and consistency, and for alignment with the BCPNP
Online application system

4. The application guide appendix has been removed and placed into a standalone document

5. The Strategic Projects section has been removed and placed into pages on our website

6. Updates to wording throughout: key staff to key staff applicant, stream to category,
performance expectations to terms and conditions, BCPNP Online to My Dashboard, four weeks
to 30 days, English language to official language

7. Added and updated wording across Part 1: Introduction and Overview, including the categories
at a glance and process at a glance sections

8. Added and updated wording across Part 2: EI – Base Category Requirements, including the
general, personal, business, minimum investment, and job requirements, and the key staff
applicant and co-registrant sections

9. Added and updated wording across Part 3: Step-by-Step Process, including the process,
preparation, registering, applying, work permit, nomination, and after nomination sections

10. Added and updated wording across Part 4: General Program Information, including the
withdrawing your registration or application, refusal to accept an application or registration, and
use of a representative sections

11. Added and updated wording across Part 5: Registration Scoring Guide, including the self-
declared scores and business concept scoring sections

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 1: Introduction & Overview 4

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Part 1: Introduction & Overview

Sections:
1.1. About the EI – Base Category Program Guide
1.2. Categories at a glance
1.3. Process at a glance

The BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration stream is for experienced entrepreneurs who are
ready to invest in and actively manage a business in B.C.

This guide will help you understand and get started on a path towards permanent residency. If
approved as a provincial nominee, you and your dependent family members can apply to Immigration,
Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to become permanent residents of Canada in the Provincial
Nominee class. Read this guide carefully before you register and apply online.

You may choose from the following categories of the Entrepreneur Immigration stream:

• Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category: intended for experienced entrepreneurs who

intend to establish new businesses or take over and grow existing businesses in B.C.

• Entrepreneur Immigration – Regional Pilot: working with regional communities, this pilot
is intended to attract entrepreneurs to participating regional communities to establish new
businesses that align with the communities’ economic development priorities. For more
information, refer to the EI – Regional Pilot Program Guide available on the BC PNP website.

• Strategic Projects: for foreign corporations that intend to establish a subsidiary or branch
office in B.C. that strategically aligns with their core business. For more information, refer to the
BC PNP website.

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 1: Introduction & Overview 5

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1.1. About the EI – Base Category Program Guide

The BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category Program Guide is designed to help you
understand and navigate the EI – Base Category including the registration and application processes.
It provides complete and comprehensive information about the EI – Base Category eligibility
requirements.

This guide also provides details on how to register with the BCPNP Online system and outlines the
information you will need to provide. For more information on required documents for the application,
please refer to the Entrepreneur Immigration Application Guide available on the BC PNP website.

Please check our website regularly to ensure you are using the most up-to-date version of the EI –
Base Category Program Guide. If you require more information, please contact us at
[email protected].

If you have already registered or applied to the Entrepreneur Immigration stream, your registration
and, if applicable, your application will be scored or assessed against criteria outlined in the
Entrepreneur Immigration Program Guide that was in effect during the time of registration.

Application process graphics are used throughout this guide. They are intended to highlight which
stages of the process are relevant to the section in the guide.

All dollar figures in this guide are expressed in Canadian dollars.

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 1: Introduction & Overview 6

6
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 1.2. Categories at a Glance

EI – Base Category EI – Regional Pilot

Within last 10 years: Within last 5 years:

Experience 3+ years of experience as a business owner-manager, OR, 4+ years of experience as a senior manager,
OR, a combination of 1+ year of experience as a business owner-manager and 2+ years of experience
as a senior manager.
Net worth At least $600,000 At least $300,000
Obtained a post-secondary credential, OR, experience as an active business owner-manager for at least
Education
3 of the last 5 years with 100% ownership in the business

You must submit a business proposal to establish You must submit a business proposal to establish
Business proposal a new business or purchase of an existing a new business in B.C. and be referred by an
business in B.C. enrolled community
Ownership percentage At least one-third (33.33%) At least 51%
Investment Minimum $200,000 Minimum $100,000
Job creation Must create at least one full-time equivalent job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada
Location Anywhere in British Columbia Participating communities
Exploratory visit Yes. You must engage and visit an enrolled
No
required? community for support before registering
Minimum of CLB 4 equivalent in English or French.
No, language test may be requested if official
Language requirement? Must submit copy of language proficiency test at
language skills claimed
registration
Partner with co-
Yes No
registrant?
Partner with a local
Yes
business/person?
Include a key staff? Yes No
Total 200 points (120 points for self-declared
Total 200 points (140 points for self-declared
section; 80 points for business concept). Must
Registration scores section; 60 points for business concept). No
score minimum of 32 points in business concept
minimum business concept score
section
Registration timeframe Registrations are scored within 6 weeks Registrations are scored within 4 weeks
Net worth verification Yes, you must obtain a net worth verification report if you are invited to apply
Application timeframe Application decisions are typically made within 4 months
Interview required for
Yes
approval?
Minimum amount of
time to submit a final 18 months after issuance of a work permit 12 months after issuance of a work permit
report
Registration: $300
Registration: $300
Fees Application: $3,500
Application: $3,500
Key staff application: $1,000

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 1: Introduction & Overview 7

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1.3. EI – Base Category Process at a Glance

The process at a glance section provides a simple overview of the general process to apply under the
Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category. Complete details of the process are described in Part 3 of
this Guide. For other categories, refer to the applicable program guide.

1. Preparation and research: in order to apply to the EI – Base Category, you must first
determine your eligibility based on the category requirements. You are encouraged to conduct
an exploratory visit to B.C. to learn about business opportunities, the local market, and the best
community for you to establish your business.

2. Registration to the BC PNP: create a profile and submit an online registration to the BC
PNP. The registration includes details about your work and/or business experience, education,
language ability, your net worth, and information about your proposed business in British
Columbia. After your registration is scored, the BC PNP will invite the highest-scoring registrants
to submit full applications to the BC PNP. Registrations are typically scored within six weeks. If
invited to apply, you will then have four months from the date of your invitation to submit your
application.

3. Application to the BC PNP: submit a complete application to the BC PNP. You may be
invited to attend an in-person interview in Vancouver to discuss details of your application. If
your application is approved, you must sign a Performance Agreement that outlines all of the
requirements you must meet in order to be nominated. Applications are typically assessed
within four months. If your application is approved, the BC PNP will issue you a letter of
confirmation (i.e. a work permit support letter) so you may apply for a work permit to IRCC and
come to B.C. to implement your business plan.

4. Business establishment (work permit) period: after obtaining a 24-month work

permit, you can begin to implement your business plan, make your investments, and create
jobs. Your spouse or common-law partner may apply for an open work permit.

5. Nomination: after you meet the terms and conditions of your Performance Agreement, you
must submit a Final Report to the BC PNP. If the BC PNP determines you have met the terms
and conditions of your Performance Agreement, you will be nominated for permanent residence.
Final Reports are typically assessed within four months.

6. Application for permanent residence: you, including your spouse or common-law

partner and dependent children (if applicable), may then apply to IRCC to become permanent
residents of Canada under the Provincial Nominee class. For permanent residence application
processing times, please refer to the IRCC website (Economic Immigration  Provincial
Nominees).

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 1: Introduction & Overview 8

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Part 2: EI – Base Category Requirements
Sections:
2.1. General Nomination Requirements
2.1 (A) Active Management
2.1 (B) Residency
2.2. Personal Requirements
2.2 (A) Immigration Eligibility
2.2 (B) Personal Net Worth
2.2 (C) Business Owner-Manager and/or Senior Manager Experience
2.2 (D) Education
2.3. Business Requirements
2.3 (A) Eligible Businesses
2.3 (B) Percent Ownership
2.3 (C) Franchises
2.3 (D) Seasonal Businesses
2.3 (E) Ineligible Businesses
2.4. Minimum Investment Requirements
2.4 (A) Eligible Personal Investment
2.4 (B) Ineligible Investments
2.4 (C) Timing of your Investment
2.4 (D) External Financing
2.5. Job Requirements
2.5 (A) Minimum Job Creation Requirements
2.5 (B) Determining the Skill Level of Positions
2.5 (C) Job Maintenance Requirements (if applicable)
2.5 (D) Requirements at Nomination Stage
2.6. BC PNP Key Staff Applicant (if applicable)
2.6 (A) Your Requirements for Proposing a Key Staff Applicant
2.6 (B) Requirements for the Key Staff Applicant
2.7. Partnership with a BC PNP Co-Registrant (if applicable)
2.7 (A) About Co-Registrants
2.7 (B) Total Personal Investment Requirement
2.7 (C) Eligible Investment: Purchases of an Existing Business
2.7 (D) Job Creation / Maintenance
2.7 (E) Adjusting Co-Registrant Registration Scores

You must meet all of the Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category requirements to be
nominated by the BC PNP. Note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee that you
will be invited to apply or that your application will be approved.

• Carefully review the requirements in the sections below for complete details.
• It is your responsibility to demonstrate that you meet the program requirements.
• For information on how registrants will be invited to apply, please refer to the process section of
this Guide.

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2.1. EI – Base Category: General Nomination Requirements
2.1 (A) Active Management
2.1 (B) Residency

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

These factors will be assessed from the application stage through to the nomination stage.

2.1 (A) Active Management

At the application stage, you must demonstrate your intention to actively manage the business. In
order to be approved for nomination, you must demonstrate that you have been actively managing
your business in B.C.

Active management means you are accountable for the day-to-day operations of the business. Active
management must occur at the place of business in B.C.

2.1 (B) Residency

At the application stage: you must demonstrate your intention to reside within 100 kilometres of
the business you intend to operate, and you must demonstrate your intention to reside in B.C. for the
majority of time while on a work permit.

In order to be approved for nomination:

• you must demonstrate that you have been residing within 100 kilometres of the business you
operate in B.C. when you submit your final report for nomination.

• you must also demonstrate that you have been physically present in B.C. for at least 75 per cent
of the time while on a work permit. For example, if you submit your final report 610 days
(approximately 20 months) after arriving in B.C. with your valid work permit, you must
demonstrate that you have been physically present in B.C. for at least 457 days (approximately
15 months) while operating your business.

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2.2. EI – Base Category: Personal Requirements

2.2 (A) Immigration Eligibility

2.2 (B) Personal Net Worth
2.2 (C) Business Owner-Manager and/or Senior Manager Experience
2.2 (D) Education

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

At the registration stage, points will be awarded for personal net worth, business and/or work
experience, and education. For detailed information on how points are calculated, please refer to the
scoring section of this Guide. These factors will also be assessed during the application stage.

2.2 (A) Immigration Eligibility

Please note that your application will not be approved if you are in Canada and do not have valid
immigration status, or if you are working without authorization. The BC PNP will not nominate someone
who:

• is prohibited from entering Canada

• has not been lawfully admitted in the country of current residence
• is in Canada and is out of status
o an individual whose status has expired, and who has not applied for restoration of status
within the 90-day eligibility period, will be considered out of status
• is working in Canada without authorization
• has an unresolved refugee claim in Canada, or
• is under a removal order in or outside of Canada

2.2 (B) Personal Net Worth

You must have a minimum of $600,000 in personal net worth, which includes your spouse or
common-law partner, and your dependent children, if applicable. Your personal net worth must be
legally obtained and verifiable.

You must disclose all of your personal net worth, including all of your assets and those of your spouse
or common-law partner, and your dependent children, and any liabilities including mortgages and
personal debts:

• cash
• assets in bank accounts (e.g., personal chequing and savings accounts)
• fixed (term) deposits (redeemable/cashable within one year)
• real property (e.g., real estate, personal and commercial property ownership)
• investments in bonds, stocks and mutual funds

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 • investments in one or more businesses (current value of your percentage ownership in
business(es), excluding stocks held in investment portfolios that have been included under liquid
investments above)
• pensions and other assets (i.e. jewelry, collectables, etc.)
• liabilities such as real property mortgage(s) or other debts (e.g., personal loans, credit card
debt)

Future inheritances cannot be included in your personal net worth. The share of business or property
ownership must be supported by legal documents, such as deeds, shareholder agreements, etc.

The IRCC form Schedule 4A – Personal Net Worth includes details about how to calculate personal net
worth.

If you receive an invitation to apply

You will be asked to provide supporting documentation to substantiate ownership, or percentage

ownership, positions in any business, as well as equity amounts based on current market values, and
outstanding mortgages or other encumbrances for you and your spouse or common-law partner.

You must obtain a net worth verification report from a BC PNP-authorized accounting firm. For more
information, please refer to net worth review section of this Guide.

The verification report will be used as part of the BC PNP application assessment process.
Notwithstanding the conclusions of the net worth verification report, the BC PNP has sole discretion and
responsibility to assess your BC PNP application and may request additional information, supporting
documentation or clarification.

Failure to declare your total personal net worth may result in the refusal of your
application.

Failure to provide satisfactory evidence to verify your personal net worth and source of funds may
result in the refusal of your application.

For information on what documents you must provide for a net worth verification report, please refer to
the Entrepreneur Immigration Application Guide available on the BC PNP website.

2.2 (C) Business Owner-Manager and/or Senior Manager Experience

You must have a minimum of:

• more than three years of experience as an active business owner-manager

If you have performed an active role in the management and operations of a company
for which you have held 10 per cent or more ownership during the past 10 years. An
active role means that you are personally involved in the day-to-day operations of the
company and have direct involvement in decision-making.
or
• more than four years of experience as a senior manager

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 2: EI – Base Category Requirements 12

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 If you have worked during the past 10 years for a company/organization as an active
senior manager (with no business ownership, or business ownership of less than 10 per
cent) supervising at least three full-time employees, and your National Occupation
Classification (NOC) is Skill Type 0 or Skill Level A.
or
• A combination of at least one year of experience as an active business owner-manager and at
least two years of experience as a senior manager.

In general, to be considered as an active owner-manager or a senior manager, you primarily:

• manage the organization, a department, subdivision, or component of the organization; or an

essential function within the organization
• supervise and control the work of:
o other managers or supervisors
o professional employees
• have the authority to hire and fire, or recommend these and other personnel actions, such as
promotion and leave authorization
• exercise discretion over the day-to-day operations of the activity or function for which the
employee has the authority

An active role means that you are personally involved in the day-to-day operations of the company and
have direct involvement in decision-making. For example, if you were a shareholder in a corporation
and your only responsibility was to attend shareholder meetings, this would not be considered as being
an active business owner-manager as you are not involved in the day-to-day operations of the
company.

2.2 (D) Education

You must have one of the following:

• a post-secondary credential (such as a degree, diploma or certificate from a licensed post-

secondary institution).
or
• experience as an active business owner-manager with 100 per cent ownership of the business
for at least three of the past five years. The 100 per cent ownership of the business may be
shared between you, your spouse or common-law partner, and/or your dependent child(ren).

If you are invited to apply, you will be required to provide evidence of your education, and you may be
required to provide an educational credential assessment.

Language training such as English as a second language will not be considered towards meeting the
post-secondary requirement.

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2.3. EI – Base Category: Business Requirements
2.3 (A) Eligible Businesses
2.3 (B) Percent Ownership
2.3 (C) Franchises
2.3 (D) Seasonal Businesses
2.3 (E) Ineligible Businesses

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

At the registration stage, you must answer questions related to your business concept to describe
your proposed business. Points will be awarded for your business concept, including potential for
commercial viability, percentage ownership, and economic benefits. These factors will be assessed
starting at the application stage and through to the nomination stage. For detailed information on how
points are calculated, please refer to the scoring section of this Guide.

In order to qualify under the Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category, you must propose
to establish a new business or purchase and improve an existing business.

If you are invited to submit an application, you must submit a comprehensive business plan that
provides detailed information about your proposed business in B.C. For more information on required
documents for an application, please refer to the Entrepreneur Immigration Application Guide available
on the BC PNP website.

2.3 (A) Eligible Businesses

The BC PNP will only consider registrations to establish a new business or purchase and
improve/expand an existing business that contributes to the economic growth of the Province.

The proposed business must be operated for the primary purpose of earning profits by providing
products and/or services. Additionally, the business must have strong potential for sustained
commercial success.

The BC PNP does not pre-approve or endorse business proposals.

You must decide on the specific type of business you intend to establish or purchase in B.C. before you
register. The business structure must be clearly defined. Partnerships with a local partner/business or
BC PNP co-applicant(s) are permitted.

For purchasing an existing business:

• (or partner with a local business) you must indicate the specific target business or local partner
in your registration
• the business must have been operated by the current owner for at least five years

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You cannot change or modify your business concept after you submit your registration.

2.3 (B) Percent Ownership

You must demonstrate that you will own at least one-third (33 1/3 per cent) of the business in B.C. If
your proposed ownership is less than 33 1/3 per cent, you must make an equity investment of at least
$1 million.

2.3 (C) Franchises

Franchises may be considered as eligible businesses if you can demonstrate that the proposed franchise
is well-established. If you are invited to apply, your application must include evidence that you have
received support from the franchisor to purchase and operate a franchise location.

The BC PNP will only consider the purchase of an existing franchise location as an eligible business if it
includes an expansion/improvement plan that is consistent with franchisor requirements. All other
requirements must also be met.

2.3 (D) Seasonal Businesses

The BC PNP will not consider a business proposal for a seasonal business unless the proposed business
operates for at least eight months per year. You must also meet all other requirements outlined in this
guide.

2.3 (E) Ineligible Businesses

Your registration will be disqualified if you propose an ineligible business. The following types of
businesses are ineligible under the BC PNP:

• an immigration-linked investment scheme pursuant to Provincial Immigration Programs

Regulation section 6(e) and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) section
87(5)(b) and as defined in IRPR 87(9)
• any business where the terms of investment include a redemption option pursuant to IRPR
87(6)(d)
• any business that may be a passive investment pursuant to IRPR 87(6)(c)
• 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
• scrap metal recycling
• businesses selling used goods (excluding businesses that provide value-added services such as
repairs, refurbishing or recycling)
• real estate development/brokerage, insurance brokerage or business brokerage

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 • 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 by association would tend to bring the BC PNP or the
Government of British Columbia into disrepute

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2.4. EI – Base Category: Minimum Investment Requirements

2.4 (A) Eligible Personal Investment

2.4 (B) Ineligible Investments
2.4 (C) Timing of your Investment
2.4 (D) External Financing

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

At the registration stage, you must provide information about your proposed investments related to
your business concept. Points will be awarded for your total proposed investment and eligible
investment. These factors will be assessed starting at the application stage and through to the
nomination stage. For detailed information on how points are calculated, please refer to the scoring
section of this Guide.

2.4 (A) Eligible Personal Investment

You must make an eligible personal investment of at least $200,000 in the proposed business
within 610 days (approximately 20 months) of arriving in B.C. on a BC PNP-supported work permit. The
minimum eligible personal investment of $200,000 must be derived from your personal net worth.

The proposed investment must be directed to one business location.

If you are proposing a key staff member, you must demonstrate that you will make an eligible personal
investment of at least $400,000. For more information, please refer to the key staff requirements
section.

Eligible personal investment is the minimum required investment of eligible business expenditures,
which may include:

• new equipment purchases

• leasehold improvements
• new marketing costs
• regular operating expenses such as rent, wages, utilities, etc.
• start-up inventory or new inventory related to an improvement/expansion plan
• purchase of existing business

The eligibility of a proposed investment is determined by the BC PNP based on whether the
expenditure is essential to establish and operate a new business or to purchase, improve and operate
an existing business. Consequently, total personal investment may differ from the eligible personal
investment under the BC PNP.

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Some investment items may not be eligible while others may be eligible with limitations:

(i) Purchase of an existing business:

The BC PNP may consider as eligible investment the purchase price of the business value up to
$150,000.*

You must commit to make an eligible investment of at least $50,000 to improve, upgrade and/or
expand the business:
o Eligible investments toward improving, upgrading and/or expanding a business may
include new capital purchases and equipment, leasehold improvements, introduction of
new technology, job creation, etc.
o Improvement/expansion does not include regular operating expenses such as recurring
inventory, wages, rent, utilities, or maintaining the same levels of marketing or
advertising expenses, legal or professional fees, business licences, etc.
o Establishing a new location or a separate business will not be considered as an eligible
improvement or expansion
o The BC PNP will not consider the purchase of additional real estate as an eligible
investment towards the improvement or expansion of the business

If the total purchase price of the business is less than $150,000, the remaining balance of the
eligible investment may be made up of other investments such as a maximum of three months
of operating expenses.

The BC PNP does not require that you sign a purchase agreement or memorandum of
understanding if you are purchasing an existing business.

* If you are proposing a partnership with a co-registrant, please refer to the partnership with a
co-registrant section.

(ii) Purchase of a business vehicle:

The BC PNP will not consider the purchase of a vehicle as an eligible investment unless you can
demonstrate that the vehicle is essential to the business. In which case:
o The BC PNP may consider as eligible investment a maximum of $25,000 for the purchase
of a business vehicle.

(iii) Operating expenses:

Operating expenses refers to regular, recurring monthly expenses that are essential to business
operations such as rent, wages and salaries, utilities, advertising, accounting, etc.

The BC PNP may consider eligible operating expenses in the following circumstances:
o For the establishment of a new business: A maximum of six months of operating
expenses.
o For the purchase of an existing business: A maximum of three months of operating
expenses.
o For the establishment of a new franchise location: A maximum of three months of
operating expenses.

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 2: EI – Base Category Requirements 18

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 Operating expenses, as recurring expenses required for the business to operate, may not form
part of the required eligible personal investment for improvement, upgrading and/or expansion
of the business.

(iv) Inventory:
For the establishment of a new business, the BC PNP may consider a reasonable amount of
start-up inventory. The reasonableness of the start-up inventory is based on the industry
standard, type of products, and size and scope of the proposed business.

A maximum of three months of inventory may be considered eligible.

For the purchase and improvement/expansion of an existing business, the BC PNP may consider
a reasonable amount of up to three months of new inventory related to the improvement and
expansion plan where a new product is to be sold. The new product must be substantially
different than the type of products already sold by the business.

2.4 (B) Ineligible investments

The following are not considered eligible investments:

• cash and working capital

• wage payments made to yourself and your family members, or other business co-owners
• refundable deposits
• when purchasing an existing business only the business value portion of the purchase price will
be considered as an eligible expense, the cost of real estate or property will not be considered
as part of the eligible investment.

2.4 (C) Timing of your Investment

The BC PNP will not consider as eligible any investment made prior to the date you are invited to apply.

The BC PNP strongly discourages registrants and applicants from making any investment or financial
commitment prior to signing a Performance Agreement with the BC PNP and obtaining a valid work
permit from IRCC. Any investment made prior to obtaining approval and a valid work permit is solely at
your own risk.

2.4 (D) External Financing

The BC PNP requires that you make the minimum eligible personal investment from your personal
funds. However, you may also use external financing from a business partner or financial institutions for
investments beyond the minimum requirement.

If external financing is a requirement of business operations, you must identify how you will obtain the
financing and how it will be applied in your proposed investment.

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2.5. EI – Base Category: Job Requirements

2.5 (A) Minimum Job Creation Requirements

2.5 (B) Determining the Skill Level of Positions
2.5 (C) Job Maintenance Requirements (if applicable)
2.5 (D) Requirements at Nomination Stage

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

At the registration stage, points will be awarded for your proposed number of positions you will
employ and their corresponding skill levels. These factors will be assessed starting during the
application stage and through to the nomination stage. For detailed information on how points are
calculated, please refer to the scoring section of this Guide.

2.5 (A) Minimum Job Creation Requirements

You must create at least one new, permanent full-time equivalent (FTE) job for a Canadian
citizen or permanent resident of Canada in the proposed business within 365 days (12 months) of
your arrival date.

You must also demonstrate the likelihood of supporting long-term employment of Canadians or
permanent residents of Canada in the proposed business.

An FTE job means a position of at least 30 hours per week on average and 1,560 hours per year,
worked by one or more employees under continuous employment. FTEs must be Canadian citizens or
permanent residents of Canada.

Independent contractors will not be considered as part of your job creation requirement – only direct
employees of the proposed business will be considered. Any shareholder with 10% ownership or more
of the business will not be considered as part of your job creation/maintenance requirement. FTEs must
work at the primary place of business and not remotely.

Employment in British Columbia is regulated by the Employment Standards Act. For more information,
please visit the Employment Standards website.

If you are proposing a partnership with a co-registrant, please refer to the partnership with a co-
registrant section.

If you are proposing a key staff member, you must demonstrate that you will create at least three
FTEs. For more information, please refer to the key staff requirements section.

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2.5 (B) Determining the Skill Level of Positions

The BC PNP will assign you points in your business concept if you propose to create or maintain high-
skilled jobs that fall under NOC skill levels 0, A or B. You must provide a rationale for their inclusion.

When determining the position(s) to be created, please refer to the National Occupational Classification
(NOC) system.

The NOC system is a classification system used by the Government of Canada to identify occupations
and associated skill levels. The four-digit NOC codes also outline job duties and employment
requirements.

Proposed wages for the employees must be consistent with the skill level of the positions created. For
information on average wages, please refer to information on Work BC.

2.5 (C) Job Maintenance Requirements (if purchasing an existing business)

In addition to the job creation requirements listed above, if you are proposing to purchase an existing
business, you must commit to maintain the number of existing jobs in the business, and pay your
employee(s) a wage that is commensurate to their skill level.

For information on average wages, please refer to information on Work BC.

Failure to maintain the number of existing jobs may result in your refusal at the nomination stage.

2.5 (D) Requirements at Nomination Stage

In order to be approved for nomination, you must demonstrate that you have consistently employed
the required number of full-time equivalent jobs, continuously, for at least 180 days (six months) before
submitting your final report.

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 2: EI – Base Category Requirements 21

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2.6. EI – Base Category: Key Staff Applicant Requirements (if applicable)

2.6 (A) Your requirements for proposing a key staff applicant

2.6 (B) Requirements for the key staff applicant

At the registration stage, points will be awarded for your business concept proposing to include a BC
PNP key staff applicant. The key staff will be assessed during the application stage through to the
nomination stages. For detailed information on how points are calculated, please refer to the scoring
section of this Guide.

If you meet the requirements below, you may propose one BC PNP key staff applicant whose
expertise is essential to the success of your proposed business. The key staff applicant will be eligible to
apply for a work permit to work for you in B.C. during the business establishment period and may also
be eligible to be nominated for permanent residence.

The key staff applicant must demonstrate education and experience consistent with the proposed
occupation in B.C. as senior manager, professional or technical position related to the proposed
business.

2.6 (A) Your Requirements for Proposing a Key Staff Applicant

(i) Domestic labour market:

As the employer of the key staff applicant, you must demonstrate a compelling rationale for a
key staff in relation to the domestic labour market – that a Canadian citizen or permanent
resident would not be able to perform the proposed duties. If you fail to demonstrate that the
key staff is essential to establishing or operating and expanding your business, the proposed key
staff applicant may be refused. The role of the key staff will be assessed as part of your
business proposal.

(ii) Eligible personal investment:

If you are proposing a key staff applicant, you must make an eligible personal investment of at
least $400,000.

For the purchase of an existing business:

o The BC PNP may consider as eligible investment the purchase price of the business value
up to $150,000.
o You must invest at least $50,000 towards the improvement, upgrade, and/or expansion
to the existing business.

(iii) Job creation:

If you are proposing a key staff applicant, you must create at least three new, permanent, full-
time equivalent positions for Canadian citizens and/or permanent residents of Canada.

If you are purchasing an existing business, you must maintain the number of jobs as described
above, and create at least three new full-time equivalent positions.

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2.6 (B) Requirements for the Key Staff Applicant

(i) General requirements:

The key staff applicant must have worked with you, the principal applicant, in a senior position
for at least one year out of the last three years, and have a critical skill set for the proposed B.C.
business.

The key staff applicant must demonstrate education and experience consistent with the
proposed occupation in B.C. as a senior manager, professional or technical position related to
the proposed business.

The proposed position the key staff applicant will fill must fall under the NOC Skill Type 0 or Skill
Level A.

If education and work experience are not specifically identified in the proposed position in B.C.,
the key staff applicant must possess a minimum of two-years of post-secondary education.

The wage offered must be equal to or greater than the median for that occupation in B.C. For
information on average wages, please refer to information on Work BC.

(ii) If you are invited to apply:

The key staff applicant must demonstrate relevant experience that is transferable and essential
to the proposed business in B.C.

The key staff applicant may be required to attend an in-person interview at the BC PNP offices
in Vancouver.

The key staff applicant will be required to sign a Performance Agreement with the Province of
British Columbia.

(iii) In order to be approved for nomination:

The key staff applicant must meet the terms and conditions outlined in the Performance
Agreement, including:
o continue to work on a full-time basis for the business, a minimum of 30 hours per week
o work in the occupation identified in the Performance Agreement
o reside within 100 kilometres of the place of business in B.C.
o the key staff applicant must not hold 10 per cent or more ownership of the proposed
business
 equity ownership may be offered as part of the remuneration package but it must be
specified in the employment contract, and, in which case, it must be less than 10 per
cent

The wage offered to the key staff applicant must continue to be equal to or greater than the
median for that occupation.

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 2: EI – Base Category Requirements 23

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2.7. EI – Base Category: Partnership with a Co-Registrant (if applicable)
2.7 (A) About Co-Registrants
2.7 (B) Total Personal Investment Requirement
2.7 (C) Eligible Investment: Purchases of an Existing Business
2.7 (D) Job Creation/Maintenance
2.7 (E) Adjusting Co-Registrant Registration Scores

At the registration stage, points will be awarded for your business concept proposing to partner with a
BC PNP Co-Registrant. Each Co-registrant will be assessed separately during the application stage. Co-
registrant registration scores will be adjusted to match the lowest-scoring co-registrant. For detailed
information on how points are calculated, please refer to the scoring section of this Guide.

2.7 (A) About Co-Registrants

You may choose to partner with another BC PNP co-registrant under one business proposal under
the Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category.

Each co-registrant must ensure they provide complete information on their background and work
experience, their business proposal, as well as provide a rationale for partnering in the proposed
business.

Each BC PNP co-registrant must meet the individual eligibility requirements listed in the EI – Base
Category Program Guide in order to be entered into the qualified pool.

If the co-registrants are invited to apply, each application will be assessed separately. There is no
guarantee that one or both of the co-applicants will be approved.

Co-registrant(s) must submit their registration through BCPNP Online within 30 days of the first co-
registrant submitting their registration.

2.7 (B) Total Personal Investment Requirement at Registration Stage

Each co-registrant will receive points based on their proposed total personal investment.

The BC PNP will determine the eligibility of the proposed investment and assign a score in the business
concept.

At the time of registration, co-registrants must each indicate what their proposed personal investment
will be.

Each investment item in the investment breakdown must only indicate your own personal investment.

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 2: EI – Base Category Requirements 24

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2.7 (C) Eligible Investment: Purchase of an Existing Business

To determine the eligible personal investment for the purchase of an existing business, the BC PNP will
recognize up to a maximum of $150,000 for each co-registrant’s share of the purchase price.

Requirements to improve, upgrade and/or expand the business are the same as outlined in the
minimum investment requirements section.

2.7 (D) Job Creation / Maintenance

Each co-registrant must create at least one full-time equivalent position for Canadian citizens or
permanent residents of Canada. If a co-registrant proposes to include a BC PNP key staff applicant, that
co-registrant will also need to create three full-time equivalent positions.

At the time of registration, co-registrants must each indicate the number of full-time equivalent
positions they will personally maintain and/or create.

2.5 (E) Adjusting Co-registrant Registration Scores

Co-registrant registration scores will be adjusted to match the lowest scoring co-registrant. For
example, two registrants may choose to partner under one business proposal and each receive scores
of 154 and 112. The partnership scores will be adjusted so that each co-registrant scores 112 points.

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | 25

25
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 Part 3: EI – Base Category: Step-by-Step Process

Sections:
3.1. Preparing before you register
3.2. Registering with the BC PNP
3.3. Applying to the BC PNP
3.4. Work Permit
3.5. Nomination
3.6. After Nomination: Permanent Residency

This section provides detailed information for the general process to immigrate under the BC PNP
Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category.

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

(A) Preparation (A) Registration (A) Net Worth (A)Arrival (A) Final Report (A) Applying for
and business Overview Review Permanent
research (B)Building your (B) Nomination Residency
(B) Creating your (B) Submitting Business in
(B) B.C.’s regions Profile your B.C. (C) Conditions of (B) Work Permit
Application Nomination Extensions
(C) Online (C) Completing the
resources Registration (C) Application
Processing Fee
(D) Purchasing an (D)Submitting your
existing Registration (D) Application
business (if Assessment
applicable) (E) Registration
Scoring (E) Interview

(F) Qualified Pool (F) Performance

Agreement
(G) Invitation to
Apply

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3.1. EI – Base Category: Preparation Before You Register

3.1 (A) Preparation and business research

3.1 (B) B.C.’s regions
3.1 (C) Online resources
3.1 (D) Purchasing an existing business (if applicable)

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

3.1 (A) Preparation and business research

Carefully review the program requirements detailed in this guide.

We strongly encourage you to make an exploratory visit to B.C. to learn more about opportunities and
the local business environment before you register.

During your visit, you can:

• investigate and evaluate potential business opportunities

• conduct market research
• make local business contacts
• learn more about living and doing business in B.C., and gain a better understanding of our
health care and education programs, housing, culture, recreation opportunities, and lifestyles.

If you require a visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa) to travel to Canada, you must apply online or to
a Canadian visa office. The BC PNP does not provide letters of support for Temporary Resident Visa
applications to conduct exploratory visits to B.C.

3.1 (B) B.C.’s regions

Each of B.C.’s regions offer different key industries, business opportunities, demographics, and lifestyle
opportunities. We encourage you to explore B.C.’s regions to find the best community for your
proposed business and your family’s settlement.

• B.C.’s communities www.britishcolumbia.ca/invest/communities/

• B.C.’s regions www.welcomebc.ca/Choose-B-C/Explore-British-Columbia/Regions-in-B-C
• Regional profiles www.workbc.ca/Labour-Market-Industry/Regional-Profiles.aspx
• Industry sectors www.britishcolumbia.ca/invest/industry-sectors/

BC PNP EI – Base Category Program Guide | Part 3: EI – Base Category: Step-by-Step Process 27
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 This map is for information purposes only. Click here to view detailed reference maps.

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3.1 (C) Online resources

You many also want to explore the following online resources to learn more about our province:

• Welcome BC: Learn about living, investing, working and studying in B.C. as an immigrant to
Canada.
• Small Business BC: This resource centre has information, products, services and support for
entrepreneurs at every stage of business development.
• Trade and Invest BC: Learn about the many opportunities to invest in high-growth businesses,
discover B.C.’s innovation clusters, connect with B.C’s businesses and communities, and explore
B.C.’s unique lifestyle.
• Doing Business in British Columbia: A detailed guide on how to establish a business in B.C. as
well as information you may want to consider before you develop your business concept.
• Hello BC: British Columbia’s official tourist website, with suggestions on things to see and do,
places to stay and information on how to get around.
• BC Economic Development Association (BCEDA): Learn more about the role of economic
development in the regions. You may refer to the directory of BCEDA members for specific
industry information for a particular B.C. community.
• You may also refer to the Business Improvement Association of BC website, and the BC
Chamber of Commerce website.
• For farm/agriculture businesses, you may wish to review the New Farm Start-up: A Guide to
Starting and Growing a Small or Medium Sized Farm Business in British Columbia booklet,
and/or Taking Stock: A Farm Business Planning Workbook for the Beginning Farmer.

3.1 (D) Purchasing an existing business (if applicable)

British Columbia, along with many parts of the world, is facing the demographic challenge of an aging
population. There are many business owners in B.C. who are considering retirement but they may not
have succession plans in place for entrepreneurs to take over their businesses. The EI – Base Category
is an option for foreign entrepreneurs to purchase and improve existing businesses in B.C., which may
also assist in providing business succession opportunities for these retiring business owners.

The following websites list businesses for sale in British Columbia: Venture Connect and
www.britishcolumbia.ca/invest/opportunities/search/. Note that the BC PNP does not pre-approve or
endorse any business proposal.

If you are interested in purchasing an existing business in British Columbia, you must conduct your own
due diligence to determine whether the business meets eligibility requirements. The BC PNP
discourages potential registrants or applicants from making any investments or financial commitments
prior to signing a Performance Agreement with the BC PNP and obtaining a valid work permit from
IRCC. Any investment made before you obtain a valid work permit is solely at your own risk. The BC
PNP does not guarantee that your registration will be selected or that your application will be approved.

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3.2. EI – Base Category: Registering with the BC PNP

3.2 (A) Registration Overview

3.2 (B) Creating your Profile
3.2 (C) Completing the Registration
3.2 (D) Submitting your Registration
3.2 (E) Registration Scoring
3.2 (F) Qualified Pool
3.2 (G) Invitation to Apply

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

The BCPNP Online registration system is an online registration process that is the first step to
immigrating to British Columbia as an immigrant entrepreneur. As it is a points-based system, you will
receive a score based on the information you provide.

Your score will determine whether you will receive an invitation to apply under the Entrepreneur
Immigration – Base Category.

The BC PNP reserves the right to make changes to the BCPNP Online registration system without prior
notice, including changes to the score grids, the minimum total required in each section, the expiry of
registrations in the qualified pool, and the number and frequency of registrants invited to apply.

Please check our website to ensure you are using the most up-to-date version of this guide.

3.2 (A) Registration Overview

Please carefully review the EI – Base Category requirements before completing your registration.

A non-refundable registration fee of $300 will be charged at the time of registration submission.

Submitting a registration is not a guarantee that you will be invited to submit an application.

Registrants may only have one active BC PNP registration or application at any given time.

The BC PNP will accept a maximum of 200 registrations per month.

Registrations are typically scored within six weeks of submission.

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3.2 (B) Creating your Profile

In order to register, you must create a profile with BCPNP Online. This includes your personal email and
home address, telephone number and passport information as well as security questions and password.
You will receive an email from the BC PNP asking you to confirm your email address and password.

The BC PNP can only provide specific information about your registration and/or application if your
email address was authorized in your BCPNP Online profile.

You are responsible for updating your contact information in your profile and ensuring that it is current
and up to date.

Once you have completed your profile, click on the Entrepreneur Immigration stream button to
continue the registration process, then click on the Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category button.

The BC PNP requires that the email address in your BCPNP Online Profile be your personal
email address. This is to ensure you receive all correspondence relevant to your file.

3.2 (C) Completing the Registration

When you select the Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category, you will be directed to My Dashboard,
where you can complete your registration.

The registration requires you provide information in all sections, which are listed as tabs across the top
of My Dashboard.

You are able to copy and paste from another program into text fields. Tables requiring numbers will
automatically calculate totals.

The system will save your information when you click on any tab and when you click the Next or
Previous buttons.

Tips and information

You do not need to complete the registration in one session. You may return to your registration as
often as needed. Inactive profiles and registrations will be deleted after 30 days.

If you do not meet the minimum eligibility score, you will be directed to My Dashboard. Any sections
where you did not meet the minimum score or sections where there was an error will be highlighted in
red. You may return to the section and correct any errors.

To avoid lost data due to system time-out or network connection issues, the BC PNP recommends that
you compose your business concept in local word processing software and then paste the text into the
browser field.

Once you have paid the fee and submitted your registration, you will not able to make changes or
modify any information in your registration.

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3.2 (D) Submitting your Registration

When you complete the submit tab, which contains the declaration and confirmation for you and your
spouse, and select Submit this registration form, the system will calculate your section scores, based on
the information you provided. The business concept section will be scored separately by the BC PNP
within six weeks.

You must upload clear scanned copies of:

• use of a representative form, if applicable *

*Use of a representative form: if you are using the services of an immigration

representative, you must upload a scanned copy of the use of a representative form available
on our website. The form must be current and signed by both you and the representative
within six months before you submit your registration. For more information about using a
representative, please refer to the Use of a Representative section.

You do not need to submit any other attachments with your registration.

If your scores in each section meet the minimum eligibility scores, you will be directed to the electronic
payment system to pay the $300 non-refundable registration fee.

Your registration will only be submitted to the BC PNP after you have paid the registration fee. You will
receive a fee payment receipt and acknowledgment.

The BC PNP may request additional information to verify the contents of your registration/application,
or to provide you with an opportunity to respond to concerns with your registration/application.

All documents submitted in response to a BC PNP request must be submitted electronically.

After you complete your registration, please ensure that you have received a confirmation email that
includes your BC PNP registration number. If you do not receive this email within 24 hours, please
email the BC PNP at [email protected] for further instructions.

The declaration in the online registration and application requires your consent and is the legal
equivalent to your signature. As the registrant, you must ensure that you have read and understood the
declaration.

It is your responsibility to ensure that your email correspondence was successfully received by the BC
PNP. The BC PNP recommends that you enable “delivery receipts” in your email program.

It is your responsibility to check your spam or junk folders for email correspondence from the BC PNP.

3.2 (E) Registration Scoring

The BC PNP will verify the information you provide in your registration and may adjust your self-
declared score if necessary. The score grids in the EI – Base Category Registration Scoring Guide
provide details of how your score will be calculated.

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Your registration will be assessed according to the program requirements applicable at the time of
submitting your registration.

The business concept section will be scored by the BC PNP. The BC PNP will verify the scoring in all
sections to finalize your registration score, typically within six weeks.

Certain sections of the registration have minimum eligibility scores. You must meet the minimum scores
in each section to be entered into the qualified pool.

EI – Base Category Scoring Overview

Scoring Sections Points
Experience & Ownership 24
Net Worth 12
Total Personal Investment 20
Self-declared
Jobs 20
Regional District 12
Adaptability 32
Self-declared SUBTOTAL score 120
Commercial Viability 30
Business
Transferability of Skills 20
concept
Economic Benefits 30
Business concept SUBTOTAL score 80

Maximum Score Available 200

3.2 (F) Qualified Pool

Upon completion of the registration scoring, you will receive an email from the BC PNP indicating your
total score and whether you have met minimum requirements to be entered in the qualified pool. You
will be able to view your registration score, including scores for each section, in My Dashboard.

Registrations that meet the total minimum points in every section will be entered into the qualified pool.
Registrations in the qualified pool are valid for 180 days (approximately 6 months). If you are not
invited to apply to the BC PNP within 180 days of qualifying, your registration will expire.

If you are proposing a BC PNP co-registrant, the total score of the lowest-scoring registrant(s) will be
applied to all co-registrants.

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3.2 (G) Invitation to Apply

(i) Ranking
If you have entered the qualified pool, your final registration score will be ranked along with
other registrants in the Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category. Periodically, the BC PNP will
invite the highest-scoring registrants to apply.

In the event of a tie, registrants will be ranked according to the scores in the individual sections
in the following order:
1. business concept
2. job creation
3. business/work experience

(ii) Invitation to apply

If you are invited to apply under the EI – Base Category, you will receive an email notification
including:
o instructions on how to complete an EI – Base Category application
o list of authorized accounting firms for the verification of your net worth
o timelines for application submission

You will have up to 120 days (approximately four months) from the date of invitation to submit
a complete application. This allows you time to finalize your business plan and obtain a
verification report of your net worth from a BC PNP-authorized accounting firm.

If you receive an invitation to apply, your registration will be removed from the qualified pool.

If you select the ‘decline’ button in My Dashboard, your invitation to apply will be declined and
your registration and invitation will be cancelled. Your profile will remain active. You may submit
a new registration at any time, however, re-registration does not guarantee another invitation to
apply. Registration fees will not be refunded for users who decline an invitation to apply.

The number and frequency of invitations to apply is based on annual nomination allocations and
the BC PNP’s processing capacity to ensure timely processing of applications.

The BC PNP may refuse your application if the information in your application is materially
different from your registration.

Information about invitations to apply, including date, number of invitations issued and
minimum scores, are posted on the invitations to apply page of our website.

(iii) What if I am not invited to apply?

Registering does not guarantee that you will be invited to apply. The BC PNP will only invite the
highest-scoring registrants from the qualified pool of each respective category.

You may wish to improve your score by developing a new business concept, conducting more
research into the business environment in B.C., or improving your adaptability and submitting a
new registration. You may consider submitting a registration under a different category. You
must withdraw your current registration before submitting a new registration.

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3.3. EI – Base Category: Applying to the BC PNP

3.3 (A) Net Worth Review

3.3 (B) Submitting your Application
3.3 (C) Application Processing Fee
3.3 (D) Application Assessment
3.3 (E) Interview
3.3 (F) Performance Agreement

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

3.3 (A) Net Worth Review

In order to submit an application, you must submit a verification report of your personal net
worth from a BC PNP-authorized accounting firm.

(i) What is an “authorized accounting firm”?

You must engage a BC PNP-authorized professional accounting firm (i.e. a BC PNP-qualified
supplier) to verify your total personal net worth and accumulation of funds before you submit an
application to the BC PNP.

An authorized accounting firm is a professional chartered accounting services supplier, who is

qualified by the BC PNP, that will complete a verification report of all of your personal net worth.
The list of authorized accounting firms and instructions is included with the invitation to apply.

(ii) How does it work?

(a) You must have received an invitation to apply before you engage an authorized
accounting firm.

(b) You must enter into an agreement with an authorized accounting firm as soon as
possible to complete a review of your total personal net worth. You are responsible for
all costs associated with this service.

(c) You must declare all of your personal net worth and provide supporting documents to
the authorized accounting firm. Your personal net worth includes your spouse or
common-law partner, and dependent children, if applicable.

(d) The authorized accounting firm will review your net worth claims and your accumulation
of funds through an analysis of your supporting financial documentation. The authorized
accounting firm will produce a verification report of your total personal net worth and its
legal accumulation. The report will outline the amount that is verifiable, and whether
there are any issues that may require further investigation by the BC PNP. The
authorized accounting firm may contact you to request additional information.

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 (e) When the review is complete, the authorized accounting firm will send you and the BC
PNP a copy of the net worth verification report.

(iii) What will I need to provide?

You must provide the authorized accounting firm with:
o a completed IRCC Schedule 4A Personal Net Worth form, and
o the Section J - Accumulation of Wealth Narrative from the Schedule 4A form
o all supporting documentation identified in the Entrepreneur Immigration Application
Guide available on the BC PNP website

You are responsible to provide a complete account of your personal net worth and source of
funds.

All documents not in English must include copies of certified translations. The copy of the
document in the original language and the translation must both be notarized.

Failure to declare your total personal net worth may result in the refusal of your application.

Failure to provide satisfactory evidence to verify your net worth and source of funds may result
in the refusal of your application.

(iv) What are the details?

The cost of obtaining a verification report will depend on which authorized accounting firm you
choose, and the extent and complexity of your net worth.

The amount of time it takes to evaluate your financial documentation and prepare a verification
report will vary. However, the authorized accounting firm may take up to 60 days to complete a
verification report. Factors such as the volume of financial documentation you provide and the
processing capacity of the authorized accounting firm can impact the timing.

The net worth verification report is valid for one year from the date of issuance by the supplier.

The verification report will be used as part of the BC PNP application assessment process.

Notwithstanding the conclusions of the net worth verification report, the BC PNP has sole
discretion and responsibility to assess your BC PNP application and may request additional
information, supporting documentation or clarification.

Do not engage an authorized accounting firm until you have received your invitation to apply
from the BC PNP.

3.3 (B) Submitting your Application

You will have up to 120 days (approximately four months) to submit a complete application including a
verification report of your net worth, all supporting documents and a comprehensive business plan.

Your application must be submitted through My Dashboard (refer to your Invitation to Apply and My
Dashboard for instructions). A maximum of 50 attachments can be uploaded to your application.

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Attachments cannot exceed 3MB each; reduce your file sizes and merge files according to type of
document.

For more information on submitting your application, including a Business Plan Guide, refer to the
Entrepreneur Immigration Application Guide available on the BC PNP website.

Your business plan must demonstrate:

• the proposed business is consistent with your registration business concept; and
• potential for commercial viability under your ownership, including a market entry strategy to
show how your proposed business will be successful in British Columbia.

If you plan to purchase an existing business, you must also be able to demonstrate:

• how the business will grow and expand under your management;
• that the business is a going concern (i.e. the business is in operation and is not in receivership
at the time of purchase); and
• that the business will generate a profit and can sustain the expanded workforce.

The BC PNP may refuse your application if the information in your application is materially different
from what you submitted in your registration.

3.3 (C) Application Processing Fee

You must pay a $3,500 non-refundable processing fee.

If you are proposing a BC PNP key staff applicant, you must pay an additional $1,000 non-refundable
processing fee.

3.3 (D) Application Assessment

As per section 6 of the Provincial Immigration Programs Regulation, the BC PNP may approve or decline
your application after taking into consideration the following, provided you have met program
requirements as described in part 2 of this guide:

• whether your entry will be of benefit to the economic development of B.C.

• your ability and intention to permanently settle and become economically established in B.C.
• whether you have entered, or intend to enter into an immigration-linked investment scheme
• whether the information provided in relation to your application is accurate, complete and
reliable
• whether you will provide active and ongoing management of the eligible business from within
B.C.

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After a review of your application, the BC PNP may either:

• offer you an opportunity to respond to any concerns regarding your application; or

• contact you to attend an in-person interview at our office in Vancouver.

If concerns are not satisfactorily addressed, your application will be refused.

Your application may be refused if the BC PNP determines you made a misrepresentation, which can
include providing false or misleading information or concealing relevant information about your
application including during your interview.

3.3 (E) Interview

If requested by the BC PNP, you will be required to attend an in-person interview at the BC PNP office
in Vancouver. In the interview, you will be expected to describe your business/work experience and
answer in-depth questions about your application.

The interview will also be your opportunity to address any concerns that are raised.

A decision on your application will be based on the information you provide up to and during your
interview. Any additional or new information after your interview may not be considered, unless
requested by the BC PNP.

Interviews are conducted in English only. If you are unable to communicate in English, you must
obtain the services of a certified court interpreter. This is to ensure you will be able to clearly
communicate to BC PNP program staff. You must submit a use of an interpreter form a minimum of ten
days prior to your scheduled interview.

A certified court interpreter is a member of the Society of Translators and Interpreters of BC (STIBC) or
a society belonging to the Canadian Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Council (CTTIC); or a
graduate from the Court Interpreting Certificate Program from Vancouver Community College (VCC).

The interpreter provides direct interpretation during the interview and will not assist you to respond to
questions in any way other than direct interpretation of questions and answers.

Your spouse or common-law partner and/or your authorized immigration representative, if applicable,
may attend the interview in an observer capacity.

No one else is permitted to be present during the interview. BC PNP key staff applicants and/or co-
applicants will be interviewed separately (if applicable).

If you require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to attend the in-person interview, the interview
invitation email may be used in support for your TRV application. At its discretion, the BC PNP may
issue a maximum of two interview invitation emails. If you are unable to attend your in-person
interview, your application will be refused.

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2.3 (F) Performance Agreement

If your application is approved, you will be required to sign a Performance Agreement with the
Province of British Columbia. The Performance Agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms
and conditions you must meet for nomination.

Performance Agreements are unique to each applicant (and key staff applicant, if applicable) and are
based on the information provided in the application, business plan, and during the interview.

The Performance Agreement for you (the principal applicant) includes:

• type of business you will own and operate and its location
• eligible investment amounts
• the number and type of positions to be created for Canadians or permanent residents
• active management requirement
• residency requirements
• timeframes within which you must meet these requirements

The Performance Agreement for your BC PNP key staff applicant (if applicable) typically includes:

• the employer (the principal applicant) and business location

• occupation and related NOC code
• full-time employment requirement (minimum 30 hours per week, or 1,560 hours per year)
• residency requirements
• timeframes within which you must meet these requirements

Important: Failure to meet the terms and conditions of your signed Performance Agreement within the
timeframes may result in a refusal at the nomination stage.

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3.4. EI – Base Category: Work permit

3.4 (A) Arrival

3.4 (B) Building your Business in B.C.

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

If you sign a Performance Agreement, the BC PNP will issue you a letter of confirmation (i.e. work
permit support letter), which will allow you to apply to IRCC for a two-year work permit. This will
enable you and your dependants to move to B.C. so you can start implementing your business plan.
The letter of confirmation is valid for 90 days (approximately three months).

A work permit is the official document issued by the Government of Canada that allows a foreign
national to work legally on a temporary basis in Canada. It does not confer status on Canada. The
length of the temporary work permit may vary at the discretion of IRCC, but is usually two years.

You must apply for your work permit prior to the expiry date on your letter of confirmation. Your
spouse or common-law partner will be eligible to apply for an open work permit, and your dependent
child(ren) will be eligible for study permits to attend elementary or secondary school (if applicable).

At its discretion, the BC PNP may issue a maximum of two letters of confirmation.

For key staff applicants (if applicable)

If your key staff applicant signs a Performance Agreement, the BC PNP will issue a letter of
confirmation to the key staff to be able to apply to IRCC for a two-year work permit. This will enable
the key staff’s dependants to move to B.C. so the key staff can help you implement your business plan.

3.4 (A) Arrival

After you sign your Performance Agreement, you must arrive in B.C. with your valid work permit within
365 days (12 months) from the date of your letter of confirmation.

If you do not arrive in B.C. within the 365-day period from the date of your letter of confirmation, your
BC PNP application may be closed and no further immigration support from the province will be
provided.

You must submit an arrival report to the BC PNP within 60 days of arriving in B.C. with your valid
work permit, or, from the date your Performance Agreement was signed, whichever is later. The arrival
report provides information such as your updated contact information in B.C., your work permit, and
whether you transferred the requisite funds into a financial institution in B.C. Your arrival report must
be submitted through My Dashboard.

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Refer to the Entrepreneur Immigration Post-Arrival Guide available on the BC PNP website for more
information.

For key staff applicants (if applicable)

After your key staff applicant signs a Performance Agreement, the key staff must arrive in B.C. with a
valid work permit within 365 days (12 months) from the date of the letter of confirmation. The key staff
must submit an arrival report to the BC PNP within 60 days of arriving in B.C. with a valid work permit,
or, from the date the Performance Agreement was signed, whichever is later. The key staff arrival
report provides information such as the key staff’s updated contact information in B.C., and the key
staff’s work permit. The key staff’s arrival report must be submitted through My Dashboard.

3.4 (B) Building your Business in B.C.

Once you arrive in B.C. with your valid work permit, you will have up to 610 days (approximately 20
months) to implement your business plan, actively manage your business, and satisfy the terms and
conditions of your signed Performance Agreement.

You are not permitted to vary any terms of the Performance Agreement without first seeking and
obtaining approval in writing from the BC PNP.

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3.5. EI – Base Category: Nomination

3.5 (A) Final Report

3.5 (B) Nomination
3.5 (C) Conditions of Nomination

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

In order to be approved for nomination, you must demonstrate you have met the terms and conditions
of your Performance Agreement by submitting a final report to the BC PNP.

3.5 (A) Final Report

You must submit a final report to the BC PNP between 550 to 610 days (approximately 18 to 20
months) after the issuance date of your valid work permit.

The final report is the form and supporting documents that you must submit in order to apply for
nomination. Your final report must be submitted through My Dashboard.

In your final report, it is your responsibility to demonstrate to that you have met the terms and
conditions described in your signed Performance Agreement.

The BC PNP will review and evaluate your final report, and may at its discretion, request additional
information and/or conduct a site visit at your B.C. business in order to assess eligibility for nomination.

If you fail to meet the terms and conditions of the Performance Agreement during the mandatory
timeframes, your application may be refused at the nomination stage and your file will be closed.

Your application may be refused if the BC PNP determines you made a misrepresentation, which can
include providing false or misleading information or concealing relevant information about your
application in your final report.

You may only submit one final report.

The BC PNP may support the extension of your work permit based on the assessment of
your final report.

Please refer to the Entrepreneur Immigration Post-Arrival Guide available on the BC PNP website for
more information.

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For Key Staff (if applicable)

Your key staff must submit a final report to the BC PNP between 550 to 610 days (approximately 18 to
20 months) after the issuance date of their valid work permit. The final report must be submitted
through My Dashboard.

In the key staff final report, it is the key staff’s responsibility to demonstrate to that they have met the
terms and conditions described in their signed Performance Agreement.

The BC PNP will review and evaluate the key staff’s final report, and may at its discretion, request
additional information in order to assess eligibility for nomination.

If the key staff fails to meet the terms and conditions of the Performance Agreement during the
mandatory timeframes, the key staff’s application may be refused at the nomination stage and their file
will be closed.

The key staff’s application may be refused if the BC PNP determines the key staff made a
misrepresentation, which can include providing false or misleading information or concealing relevant
information about their application in the final report.

Your key staff may only submit one final report.

3.5 (B) Nomination

If you are nominated, the BC PNP will issue you a confirmation of nomination as a provincial
nominee. The nomination will allow you and your eligible dependent family members to apply for
permanent residence to IRCC under the Provincial Nominee Class.

Please note that the age(s) of your dependent children, if any, are locked in for the purpose of federal
immigration requirements at the time you submit your registration to the BC PNP. For more information
on federal requirements regarding the age of dependent children, please see IRCC’s website.

3.5 (C) Conditions of Nomination

In addition to the BC PNP confirmation of nomination, you will also receive the conditions of
nomination, which outline the conditions you must continue to meet while your application for
permanent residence is in process.

(i) Principal Applicants and Key Staff Applicants

It is a condition of your nomination that you are not at any time:
o prohibited from entering Canada;
o under a removal order in or outside of Canada; or
o working in Canada for any employer without authorization.

You must inform the BC PNP if any of the following occurs:

o change in residential address;
o change in marital status or number of dependants;
o change in immigration status; or

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 o refusal of a Work Permit and/or refusal of a Temporary Resident Visa.

You must provide any information requested by the BC PNP to verify that conditions of
nomination continue to be met. Failure to abide by the conditions of nomination, including
failure to provide requested information, may result in a withdrawal of your nomination.

If the BC PNP determines that you provided false or misleading information to the BC PNP,
before or after nomination, your nomination may be withdrawn.

(ii) Principal Applicants only:

o continue to meet the conditions outlined in the signed Performance Agreement, including
the agreed upon nature of business operations, business location, ownership percentage,
job creation (and maintenance), investment, location of residence, as well as your
ongoing and active management of the business;
o operate the business in a manner consistent with any required permit, licence, approval
or other legal or regulatory requirements;
o maintain legal authorization to work in Canada, or if status has expired, be able to
demonstrate that an application for restoration of status within the 90-day eligibility
period has been submitted;
o comply with the requirements of Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations
section 87, and Provincial Immigration Programs Regulation subsection 6(g).

You must inform the BC PNP if there is a change in your circumstances, including:
o change in business operations; or
o change in business location.

(iii) Key Staff Applicants only (if applicable):

Continue to meet the conditions in your signed Performance Agreement, including:
o continued employment with the identified employer;
o continue to work on a full-time basis for the employer in B.C.; and
o work in the occupation identified;
o maintain legal authorization to work in Canada; or if status has expired, be able to
demonstrate that an application for restoration of status within the 90-day eligibility
period has been submitted;
o maintain residency in B.C. within 100 kilometres of the business for which you are
employed; and not hold 10 per cent or more ownership in the business.

The key staff must inform the BC PNP if there is a change of employment, including loss of
employment.

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3.6. EI – Base Category: After Nomination

3.6 (A) Applying for Permanent Residency

3.6 (B) Work Permit Extensions

6.
1. 2. BC PNP 3. BC PNP 4. 5.
Permanent
Preparation Registration Application Work Permit Nomination
Residency

3.6 (A) Applying for Permanent Residency

After you have been approved as a provincial nominee, you may then apply for permanent residence to
IRCC under the Provincial Nominee Class. The confirmation of nomination is valid for 180 days
(approximately six months). You must apply for permanent residence prior to the expiry date on your
confirmation of nomination.

IRCC will assess your application for permanent residence to ensure you meet the security and
admissibility requirements, including medical and security checks, and that you continue to meet the
requirements of the Provincial Nominee Class.

If IRCC approves your application, you will be issued a permanent resident visa.

For more information on applying for permanent residence and processing times, please visit IRCC’s
website.

IMPORTANT: The BC PNP has no jurisdiction over whether or not IRCC will grant you permanent
residence status in Canada. IRCC is the final decision-making authority on whether to issue you a
permanent resident visa.

IRCC may request additional information related to your application to ensure you continue to meet the
conditions of nomination.

3.6 (B) Work Permit Extensions

If you have already applied for permanent residence and your work permit is due to expire within 120
days (approximately four months), you may be eligible to apply for a Bridging open work permit from
IRCC.

For eligibility requirements, refer to IRCC’s website.

IRCC and/or the BC PNP may request evidence to confirm you continue to meet the conditions of your
nomination.

For more information about processing times for applying for a work permit, please visit IRCC’s website.

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Part 4: General Program Information

Sections:
4.1. Withdrawing your Registration or Application
4.2. BC PNP Withdrawal of your Nomination or Application
4.3. Request for Review
4.4. Misrepresentation
4.5. Refusal to Accept an Application or Registration
4.6. Use of a Representative
4.7. Definitions

4.1. Withdrawing your Registration or Application

You may withdraw your registration through My Dashboard. Registration fees are non-refundable.

You may request a withdrawal of your application at any time by contacting the BC PNP at
[email protected]. Application fees are non-refundable.

4.2. BC PNP Withdrawal of your Nomination or Application

The BC PNP may withdraw your nomination if you have:

• failed to comply with your conditions of nomination
• failed to inform the BC PNP of a material change
• obstructed or interfered with an inspection
• retained a paid representative who is not qualified under the Act
• provided false or misleading information

The decision to withdraw your nomination is not subject to review under section 7 of the Act.

Examples where an approval or nomination may be withdrawn include, but are not limited to:

• information provided in your application to the BC PNP was false or misleading

• the conditions of nomination under which you were nominated are no longer being met:
o for example, you have not maintained the terms and conditions of your Performance
Agreement, including but not limited to: business type, business location, ownership
percentage, job creation (and maintenance), investment, as well as the ongoing and
active management of the business
• you are no longer residing in B.C.
• you are in Canada and are out of status

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 o if your status has expired, and you cannot demonstrate you have applied for restoration
of status within the 90-day eligibility period, you will be considered out of status
• you are working in Canada without authorization
• you are under a removal order in or outside of Canada

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4.3. Request for Review

If the BC PNP refuses an application (i.e. declined under section 4(1)(b) of the Act), that person has a
right to request a review of the decision.

The purpose of a review is to determine whether the original decision was based on a fair process, and
was within the range of decisions that could be reasonably supported by the evidence before the
decision maker on the basis of the program criteria at the time of the decision.

An applicant may only submit a request to review a decision issued by the BC PNP (i.e. not decisions
issued by IRCC). The review process is limited to the following types of BC PNP decisions:
• Entrepreneur Immigration registration disqualifications
• Entrepreneur Immigration - stage 1 - application refusals
• Entrepreneur Immigration - stage 2 - nomination refusals

All requests for a review of a decision must be made within 30 calendar days of the date of the decision
notice if the applicant is a resident in Canada, or 60 calendar days of the date of the decision notice if
the applicant is not a resident in Canada.

A person whose approval has been withdrawn under section 6 of the Act is not entitled to have that
decision reviewed by the BC PNP under the internal review process set out in section 7 of the Act.

The request for review must:

• be in writing and must be submitted through BCPNP Online
• identify the grounds for the request
• provide any information the BC PNP requests
• pay the $200 non-refundable request for review fee

A review is not a chance to submit new evidence or re-argue the evidence submitted in your
application. Being unsatisfied with the final decision or a component of the decision is not sufficient
grounds to vary or reverse a decision.

Important information for those who choose to submit a request for review:
• Only the applicant named on the decision notice may request a review.
• The residential address provided in the online request for review form must be the applicant's
current residential address. Forms that list the authorized representative's address will be
considered incomplete and will not be processed.
• The applicant is responsible for outlining how the decision was unreasonable or procedurally
unfair. The review will be based on the information provided by the applicant.
• The review will be conducted on the basis of the program criteria and evidence available at the
time the application was declined.
• You will receive an e-mail confirming your request has been received.

Important: Applicants who submitted their application to the BC PNP on or before July 1, 2015 (i.e.
those with application numbers that begin with "BR-" or "BS-") must contact the BC PNP at
[email protected] for more information on how to submit a request for review.

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Request for Review: Decision

As soon after receiving a review request as it is practical to do so, the BC PNP must either:

• confirm the original decision, or

• re-evaluate the application based on the review request

Reviewed decisions are final decisions under the Act and Regulation. Subsequent requests for review,
or requests for review submitted outside of the applicable 30- or 60-day periods, cannot be accepted.

4.4. Misrepresentation

Your application may be refused if you are found to have misrepresented or withheld information
relevant to the decision.

Misrepresentation can include any of the following:

• submitting false or misleading information in an application or registration;

• failing to disclose information relevant to an application or registration;
• communicating directly or indirectly, by any means, false or misleading information, or
concealing relevant information, in any communication with the BC PNP or otherwise during the
application and evaluation process

If you have been found to have misrepresented information in your application, the BC PNP may refuse
to accept a future application from you for up to two years.

4.5. Refusal to Accept an Application or Registration

The BC PNP may refuse to accept an application or registration if:

• an invitation for an application does not apply to that person

• the person has retained a representative who does not meet the prescribed requirements, as
described in section 4 of the Provincial Immigration Programs Regulation
• the applicant has had a previous approval cancelled by the BC PNP
• the applicant has, in the two years immediately before the date of the application, been found
by the BC PNP to have made a misrepresentation in a previous application
• the applicant has another active application.

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4.6. Use of Representative

4.6 (A) Declaration and Consent

4.6 (B) Authorized Paid Representatives
4.6 (C) Unpaid Representatives
4.6 (D) Changing Representatives
4.6 (E) Complaints Against a Representative

You are not required to use a paid or unpaid representative – such as an immigration consultant or
lawyer – to register and/or apply to the BC PNP. The program is designed for you to be able to
complete the process on your own if you choose to do so.

The BC PNP scores all registrations for each category under their respective criteria, and, if invited to
apply, the BC PNP assesses all applications equally, regardless of whether they were prepared with the
assistance of a representative. Your registration or application will not receive special attention, faster
processing, or a more favourable outcome if it is submitted using the services of a representative.

Some applicants choose to use a representative to provide immigration advice or to assist with the
process.

You must disclose if you have received assistance in preparing your registration and/or application from
a person who is compensated or receives a benefit as a result of such assistance. Failure to declare
such assistance may result in the refusal of the application or disqualification of the registration. If you
pay someone to act as your representative, they must meet the requirements for authorized
representatives stated below. A representative is authorized to act on your behalf with the BC PNP.

4.6 (A) Declaration and Consent

By completing the BC PNP use of a representative form, you have authorized the individual named on
the form to represent you and act on your behalf with the BC PNP. This may include representation
throughout the registration, application and assessment processes, and communication with program
staff as required, including disclosure of personal or confidential information to your representative.

The legal declaration in the online registration or application is your legal signature. If your
representative enters the registration or application on your behalf, you should review the information
provided as you will be legally responsible for the accuracy of the form contents.

BCPNP Online uses your personal email as the unique personal identifier for your profile. The email and
contact information provided in your profile will be associated with the application in the system and
will be used by BC PNP staff for communication of final decisions.

At its discretion, the BC PNP may contact you directly to request additional evidence or information to
verify information in your registration and/or application, and to determine if you meet or continue to
meet all program requirements.

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4.6 (B) Authorized Paid Representatives

In selecting a paid immigration representative, the BC PNP highly recommends that applicants confirm
with their potential representative that they are members in good standing with their professional
organization.

The Act and Regulation restricts payment for representation to groups defined by section 91(2) of the
Immigration and Refugee Protection Act:

• immigration consultants who are full members in good standing of the Immigration Consultants
of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC)

• lawyers who are members in good standing of the Law Society of BC or another Canadian Law
Society, the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society, or the Chambre des notaires du Quebec.

4.6 (C) Unpaid Representatives

You may use the services of an unpaid representative to act on your behalf. Unpaid representatives
may include persons authorized under the Act and Regulation (see above), family members, friends,
and members of non-governmental or religious organizations.

The BC PNP only considers third-party representatives as unpaid if they do not charge fees or receive
any other compensation or benefit for providing immigration advice or related services.

If your unpaid representative is found by the Province to have charged fees for, or otherwise benefited
from, acting as your Representative, the Province will revoke such person’s eligibility to serve as your
Representative and may decline/cancel your application/approval to the BC PNP.

In selecting an unpaid representative, the BC PNP recommends that applicants confirm with their
potential representative that they are members in good standing and have not been found to have
made a misrepresentation by the BC PNP within the last two years.

4.6 (D) Changing Representatives

If you change representatives or decide to no longer be represented, you must provide notification to
the BC PNP. Failure to declare a change in representative may result in the refusal of your application.

The BC PNP will communicate with the representative indicated in your profile. If you decide to change
or remove your authorized representative, you must update this information in the My Representative
tab in My Dashboard. You are responsible for ensuring your profile is updated to reflect changes in
representatives.

You may only have one representative at any given time. If you wish to change your representative
during the BC PNP registration and/or application process, you must update the information in the My
Representative tab in My Dashboard and submit another use of a representative form allowing your
new representative to represent you and allow the BC PNP to disclose information to them.

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Filing a new use of a representative form will automatically cancel any previously appointed
representative.

You may remove your representative, without replacement, by contacting the BC PNP in writing and
requesting the removal of that representative.

4.6 (E) Complaints Against a Representative

If you have a complaint about your representative, whether paid or unpaid, you may submit a
complaint to the appropriate regulatory body:

• If your authorized representative is a member of ICCRC

• If your authorized representative is a member of the Law Society of British Columbia
• If your authorized representative is a member of another Canadian Law Society, the Nova Scotia
Barristers’ Society, or the Chambre des notaires du Quebec, contact the applicable professional
organization.

You may wish to refer to the IRCC website, which contains a lot of information about using immigration
representatives.

4.7. Definitions

“Act” means the Provincial Immigration Programs Act.

“certified court interpreter” means:

a. A certified court interpreter who holds a current and valid membership to the Society of
Translators and Interpreters of BC (STIBC);
b. A certified court interpreter who holds a current and valid membership to a society belonging to
the Canadian Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Council (CTTIC); or,
c. A graduate from the Court Interpreting Certificate Program from Vancouver Community College
(VCC).

“Director” means the Director of Provincial Immigration Programs, or persons acting for the Director.

“paid representative” means:

a. A lawyer who is a member in good standing of the Law Society of BC or any other Canadian
Law Society, the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society, or the Chambre des notaires du Quebec; or,
b. An immigration consultant who is a full member in good standing of the Immigration
Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council.

“Regulation” means the Provincial Immigration Programs Regulation

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Part 5: EI – Base Category Registration Scoring Guide

Sections:
5.1. Self-declared scores (120 points)
5.1 (A) Experience & business ownership
5.1 (B) Net worth
5.1 (C) Total personal investment
5.1 (D) Jobs created / maintained
5.1 (E) Location based on B.C. Regional Districts
5.1 (F) Adaptability factors
5.2. Business Concept Scoring (80 points)
5.2 (A) General Information
5.2 (B) Commercial viability
5.2 (C) Transferability of skills
5.2 (D) Economic benefits

This section provides detail about the Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category registration
scoring, including complete point tables and useful information on how to fill out your registration.

Many sections of the registration have minimum eligibility scores. You must meet the minimum
eligibility scores in each section to be entered into the qualified pool.

Scoring Sections Points

Experience & Ownership 24
Net Worth 12
Total Personal Investment 20
Self-declared
Jobs 20
Regional District 12
Adaptability 32
Self-declared SUBTOTAL score 120
Commercial Viability 30
Business
Transferability of Skills 20
concept
Economic Benefits 30
Business concept SUBTOTAL score 80
Maximum Score Available 200

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Your registration will be disqualified if:

• you propose an ineligible business

• you are proposing to purchase an existing business but have not identified the target business,
or if the business has not been in operation under the same owner for at least five years
• you do not meet the minimum point requirements for any section
• you do not score at least 32 points in the business concept section

You may have to provide evidence of any and all claims if you receive an invitation to apply. For
information on documents required at the application stage, please refer to the Entrepreneur
Immigration Application Guide available on the BC PNP website.

5.1. EI – Base Category: Self-declared scores

The BCPNP Online system will automatically assign points based on the information you provide. The
BC PNP will verify this information and may adjust your score if necessary.

5.1 (A) Experience and Business Ownership

The EI – Base Category requirements section of this Guide provides detailed information on business
and work experience requirements.

You will receive points based on your business ownership and/or senior management work experience
for the last 10 years.

Please list all of your active business ownership and/or senior management work experience for the last
10 years. You will be assigned points in the experience section for periods that are not duplicated
in time.

You may not claim senior management experience if you worked at the same business of which you
owned more than 10 per cent during the same period of time.

You must indicate the industry sector code(s) based on the three-digit NAICS code and four-digit
occupation code(s) from the NOC that best relate to your experience.

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You must score at least 8 points to meet the minimum requirements for this section.

Experience Total Duration Points

Less than 12 months 0
12 to 24 months 4
25 to 36 months 6
Business owner-manager experience
37 to 48 months 12
49 to 59 months 15
60 months or more 20
Less than 24 months 0
25 to 48 months 4
Senior manager work experience
49 to 59 months 8
60 months or more 12
Maximum Score Available 20

In addition, you will be awarded points if you have owned 100 per cent of a business for at least
three of the most recent five years. The 100 per cent ownership of the business may be shared
between you, your spouse or common-law partner, and/or your dependent child(ren).

Ownership Amount Points

Less than three years of 100% business
0
ownership in the past five years
Business ownership
100% ownership of a business for at least
4
three of the last five years
Maximum Score Available 4

5.1 (B) Net Worth

The EI – Base Category requirements section of this Guide provides detailed information on personal
net worth requirements.

You will receive points based on your total personal net worth including that of your spouse or
common-law partner, and/or your dependent children, if applicable.

You will have to provide information on the following:

• current assets:
o bank deposits (e.g. personal chequing and savings accounts)
o liquid investments (e.g. stocks, bonds, term deposits redeemable within one year)
o other liquid assets (you must specify)

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 • other assets:
o real property (e.g. real estate, personal and commercial property ownership)
o business ownership (i.e. current book value of the per cent ownership of your
business(es))
o pension funds and other assets (you must specify)

• liabilities:
o real property mortgage
o other debts (e.g. personal loans, credit card debt)

You must score at least 5 points to meet the minimum requirements for this section.

Personal Net Worth Points

Less than $50,000 0

Your total current assets $50,000 to $199,999 2

(cash and liquid funds) $200,000 to $399,999 3
$400,000 or more 4
Less than $600,000 0
$600,000 to $799,999 5
Your total personal net
$800,000 to $1,999,999 6
worth
$2,000,000 to $4,999,999 7
$5,000,000 or more 8

Maximum Score Available 12

5.1 (C) Total Personal Investment

The EI – Base Category requirements section of this Guide provides detailed information on minimum
investment requirements.

You will receive points based on your proposed total personal investment for the business.

The BCPNP Online registration form includes typical investment items as dropdown items. You may add
investment item fields to the table by selecting other.

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You must score at least 8 points to meet the minimum requirement for this section. If you
are proposing a BC PNP key staff applicant, you must score at least 10 points to meet the minimum
requirement.

Total Personal Investment Points

Less than $200,000 0
$200,000 to $399,999 8
$400,000 to $599,999 10
$600,000 to $999,999 11
$1,000,000 to $1,999,999 12
$2,000,000 to $3,999,999 14
$4,000,000 to $7,999,999 16
$8,000,000 or more 20

Maximum Score Available 20

5.1 (D) Jobs Created / Maintained

The EI – Base Category requirements section of this Guide provides detailed information on job creation
requirements.

You will receive points based on your proposed full-time equivalent (FTE) job creation, and FTE
maintenance if you are purchasing an existing business.

You will be disqualified if you do not demonstrate that you will create at least one FTE job. If you are
proposing a BC PNP key staff applicant, you must demonstrate you will create a minimum of three
FTEs.

If you are proposing to partner with a co-registrant, refer to the partnering with a co-registrant section.

To identify the occupation and associated skill level, refer to the NOC. The salary field represents the
estimated annual salary of the position.

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You must score at least 8 points to meet the minimum requirement for this section. If you
are proposing a BC PNP key staff applicant, you must score at least 10 points to meet the minimum
requirement.

Total Proposed FTE Jobs Points

Less than 1 0
1 job 8
2 jobs 9
3 jobs 10
4 jobs 11
5 jobs 12
6 jobs 13
7 - 9 jobs 14
10 - 19 jobs 16
20 or more jobs 20

Maximum Score Available 20

5.1 (E) B.C. Regional District Population

The BC PNP is focused on attracting investment to regional communities and in the BCPNP Online
registration, higher points are awarded for investments proposed in Regional Districts with smaller
populations.

Points are awarded for the location of the proposed business based on the population sizes of B.C.’s
Regional Districts based on BC Stats Sub-Provincial Estimates for 2016.

If you are proposing to establish a new business in a regional community in B.C., you may want to
consider submitting a registration under the Entrepreneur Immigration – Regional Pilot.

The applicant must work at the primary place of business in the proposed regional district and reside
within 100 kilometres of the business.

There is no minimum required score for this section.

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 Location based on B.C. Regional District Population Points
500,000 people or
Greater Vancouver 0
more

Capital, Fraser Valley 200,000 to 499,999 1

Central Okanagan, Nanaimo, Thompson-Nicola 100,000 to 199,999 3

Cowichan Valley, Fraser-Fort George, North Okanagan,

70,000 to 99,999 6
Okanagan-Similkameen

Comox, Peace River, Cariboo, Central Kootenay 60,000 to 69,999 8

Columbia-Shuswap, East Kootenay, Strathcona,

35,000 to 59,999 10
Squamish-Lillooet, Bulkley-Nechako, Kitimat-Stikine

Alberni-Clayoquot, Kootenay-Boundary, Sunshine Coast,

Powell River, Skeena-Queen Charlotte, Fewer than 35,000
12
Mount Waddington, Northern Rockies, people
Central Coast, Stikine

Maximum Score Available 12

BC Stats 2016 Sub-Provincial Population Estimates

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5.1 (F) Adaptability Factors

(i) Language Proficiency

(ii) Education
(iii) Previous Visit(s) to B.C.
(iv) Age
(v) Canadian Experience

The BC PNP will consider adaptability factors and assign points for these factors as part of the
registration score. These factors are not mandatory requirements of the BC PNP but are indicators to
support the likelihood of your economic establishment in B.C.

For information on required documents for a complete application, please refer to the Entrepreneur
Immigration Application Guide available on the BC PNP website.

There is no minimum required score for this section.

(i) Language Proficiency

Being proficient in English and/or French is not a mandatory requirement of the BC PNP
Entrepreneur Immigration – Base Category. However, points are assigned for self-declared official
language proficiency.

To register, you must indicate your current level of official language proficiency.

Evidence of language proficiency, such as copies of test scores or certificates, are not required at
the time of registration. If you are invited to apply, you may be required to provide evidence of
your language proficiency.

For the purposes of determining your current level of official language proficiency, refer to the
Centre for Canadian Language Benchmark’s publication, Canadian Language Benchmarks:
Language test equivalency charts.

(ii) Education

You will receive points for your highest level of completed education.

If you are invited to apply, you will be required to provide evidence of your education, and you
may be required to provide an education credential assessment.

If your score for Education Level is 0, you will not be eligible to register unless you have at least
three years of active management experience of a business that you had 100 per cent ownership
in the last five years.

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(iii) Previous Visit(s) to B.C.

If you have previously visited British Columbia, you must provide details of your visit(s), including
cities/municipalities visited, and the dates when you entered and exited B.C. If you are invited to
apply, you will be required to provide evidence of your previous visit(s) to B.C.

(iv) Age

The BC PNP does not have any age requirements or age limits. However, your age will be
assigned points in the BCPNP Online registration.

(v) Canadian Experience

The BC PNP will assign points if you possess any of the following experience obtained in Canada
within the last 10 years:

o Canadian, full-time work experience: You have legally worked in Canada for at least 12
consecutive months in any occupation, which may include the active management of a
business under your ownership in Canada. During this time, you must have had a valid
Canadian work permit to claim this experience.

o Full-time studies in Canada: You have legally studied in Canada under a secondary or post-
secondary program for at least 12 consecutive months (including scheduled breaks such as
winter and summer breaks and holidays – a minimum of two consecutive semesters). During
this time, you must have had a valid Canadian study permit to claim this
experience.

Points will not be assigned for language training such as English as a second language.

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 Adaptability Factor Points
None or minimal, similar to CLB 3 and below 0
Language proficiency Basic understanding, similar to CLB 4 2
Intermediate and advanced, similar to CLB 5 and above 4
Secondary school or less 0
Associate degree
Diploma / certificate (non-trades) 2
Diploma / certificate (trades)
Education level
Bachelor’s degree
5
Post-graduate diploma / certificate
Master’s degree
8
Doctorate / PhD
Less than 25 0
25 – 34 4
35 – 44 8
Age
45 – 54 6
55 – 64 4
65 or older 0
No, or visited B.C. more than 3 years ago 0
Yes, visited B.C. 1 – 3 years ago 1
Business exploratory visits Yes, visited B.C. less than 1 year ago, but did not visit the
2
Regional District of the proposed business
Yes, visited the Regional District of the proposed business
4
less than 1 year ago
Canadian work experience,
business experience, or No 0
studies from within Canada
for at least 12 months Yes 8

Maximum Score Available 32

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5.2. EI – Base Category: Business Concept Scoring

5.2 (A) General information

5.2 (B) Commercial Viability
5.2 (C) Transferability of Skills
5.2 (D) Economic Benefits

You must propose to establish a new business or purchase and improve an existing business
in B.C. The business concept of the registration is similar to an executive summary that provides high-
level information about your proposed business plan.

If you are invited to apply, you will be required to submit a comprehensive business plan as part of
your application.

5.2 (A) General Information

You must answer questions and provide details of your business concept specific to your proposal. Your
proposed business concept will be scored by the BC PNP.

For all registrations, you will be asked to provide details of the following:

• description of the business model and its operations: what will the business do and how will it
do it?
• description of the types of goods and/or services the business will provide
• your proposed job title and duties, and how your qualifications relate to the proposed business
• description of how your business will be commercially viable: what is your market entry
strategy?
• description and rationale for your staffing requirements

In addition to the above, if you are purchasing an existing business, wholly or partially, you must:

• identify and describe the target business, including staffing

• summarize the company’s performance, with approximate annual revenue, and net profit from
the past two years
• provide a description and rationale of your improvement/expansion plan
• comment on business history and financial health
• explain how you established the value of the business

Do not include general market research or statistics in your business concept.

In the business concept section, you will be also required to indicate whether you are proposing any of
the following:

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 • franchise business:
If you are proposing to establish a franchise business, either a new franchise location or
purchasing an existing one, you must provide details on the franchisor. In addition, you must
identify any franchisor conditions or restrictions on approving you as a franchisee, and describe
the franchisor response to your request for a proposed new location. For more information on
franchise businesses, please refer to the business requirements section.

• partnership with local partner(s):

If you are proposing to partner with a local or foreign businessperson or BC PNP co-registrant,
you must provide a rationale for the business partnership and describe your business
relationship with each partner. You must identify the partner(s), their proposed ownership
percentage, whether the local partner(s) will make any investment into the business, and what
role, if any, the partner(s) will have in the business.

• partnership with BC PNP co-registrant(s):

If you are partnering with a BC PNP co-registrant, each co-registrant must submit their
registrations within 30 days of the earliest registration. Your registration will not be accepted if
your co-registrant(s) submits a registration more than 30 days after your registration is
received.

• BC PNP key staff applicant:

If you are proposing a BC PNP key staff applicant, you must identify the key staff and provide a
rationale for why the key staff is essential to the proposed business, and describe your business
relationship with the key staff.

For complete information on business requirements, including detailed explanations of factors within
the business concept, please refer to the business requirements section of this Guide.

You must score at least 32 points in the business concept section.

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Your business concept will be scored on the following factors:

Business Concept Factors Points

Commercial viability:
(a) Business model
(b) Market and products/services
(c) Eligible personal investment 30
(d) Assessment of proposed personal investment
(e) Ownership percentage
(f) Risk factors
Transferability of skills:
(a) Business owner-manager experience only
20
(b) Senior manager work experience only
(c) Language ability
Economic benefits:
(a) Key sectors & significant economic benefits
(b) Jobs assessment 30
(c) High-skilled jobs
(d) Development region

Maximum Score Available 80

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5.2 (B) Commercial Viability

5.2 (B)(a) Business model

5.2 (B)(b) Market and products/services
5.2 (B)(c) Eligible personal investment
5.2 (B)(d) Assessment of proposed personal investment
5.2 (B)(e) Ownership percentage
5.2 (B)(f) Risk factors

The BC PNP will assess your business concept and assign points based on the commercial viability of
your proposed business.

Overall Commercial Viability Points

Business model 10
Market & products/services 4
Eligible personal investment 4
Assessment of proposed personal investment 6
Ownership percentage 4
Risk factors 2

Maximum Score Available 30

5.2 (B)(a) Business model

You must describe how your proposed business will generate revenue and profit, and how the business
will have the potential for sustained commercial success under your management.

For the purchase of an existing business, including partnerships:

• Expansion/improvement plan: You must identify how you will improve, upgrade and/or expand
the existing business. This may include creating new employment, investing in improvements
and/or upgrades to the business, introducing new products and/or services, etc.

• Financial stability: You must be able to demonstrate that the business is a going concern
(profitable), that it can sustain additional expenses and investments, how the business will
generate additional profit, and how the workforce will be expanded.

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You will receive points for your business model based on the following table:

Business Model Points

Unsatisfactory / Unclear 1
Fair / Good 5
Excellent 10
Maximum Score Available 10

The business model is assessed based on the following criteria:

• An unsatisfactory/unclear business model (1 point) will be determined if any of the following

are identified:
o business model does not clearly identify and/or describe the business operation from
start to finish
o business model does not clearly identify the products and/or services being offered
o proposed scale of business is not consistent with industry/regional norms
o business concept does not provide details of applicant’s proposed role
o business concept does not provide substantive information on local business partner
and/or co-applicant and/or key staff (if applicable)
o proposed key staff is ineligible and/or the co-registrants do not demonstrate a prior
working/business relationship
o if purchase of existing business: the proposed expansion plan does not effectively
address a plan to upgrade/improve or expand the existing business, or is ineligible
o if purchase of existing business: the proposed expansion plan relies primarily upon
unsubstantiated investment and/or job creation and appears to be inconsistent with
industry/regional norms

• A fair/good business model (5 points) will be determined if all of the following are met:
o business model is clearly identified and describes the business operation from start to
finish
o business model clearly identifies the products and/or services being offered
o proposed scale of business is consistent with industry/regional norms
o business concept provides substantive information on local business partner and/or co-
applicant and/or key staff (if applicable)

• An excellent business model (10 points) will be determined if, in addition to core requirements
for fair/good, the business concept also meets at least 3 of the following factors:
o proposed investment and jobs plan are consistent with the business model (must score 6
points for assessment of investment and score 6 points for jobs assessment)
o business model identifies a clear strategy to become commercially viable
o business model’s operational plan is internally consistent
o applicant’s proposed duties with the business are consistent with applicant’s experience

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5.2 (B)(b) Market and products/services:

You must provide an effective market entry strategy to show how your proposed business will be
successful in British Columbia. If you are planning to purchase an existing business, you must be able
to demonstrate how the business will grow and expand under your management.

You must describe the types of products and/or services that will be offered, or that are currently
offered if you are purchasing an existing business. Describe the uniqueness of the product(s) and/or
service(s).

You will receive points for your market and products/services based on the following table:

Market & Product Points

Does not satisfactorily address any of the Market/Product factors 1
Addresses at least one of the Market/Product factors, and is
4
consistent with Business Model
Maximum Score Available 4

Scoring will be based on whether the registrant demonstrates at least 1 of 4 critical factors, which
are consistent with the business model:

• Competitive edge: the product/service offers distinction from its potential competitors. If local
competitors offer the same or similar product/service, then it does not offer substantive
distinction.

• High-value: the proposed product/service will be a specialized product/service that is

differentiated from generic, mid to low-value products/services.

• New product/service: the product/service is “new to the market” or “new to the world”. The
business concept should demonstrate that the product/service is not locally available.

• Competitive analysis / market entry strategy: business concept provides a competitive analysis
that identifies current/potential competitors, how to make the product/service unique or
distinguishable, how to attract the target market, strengths and weaknesses of current and
potential competitors, and how the proposed business’s competitive advantage and how it will
effectively enter the market.

5.2 (B)(c) Eligible personal investment

The BC PNP will determine the eligibility of your proposed investment and assign you points. For
detailed information on eligible and ineligible investments, refer to the investment requirements section
of the Guide.

If you are proposing the purchase of an existing business, your registration will be disqualified if less
than $50,000 is proposed as eligible investment towards the improvement, upgrades, and/or expansion
of the existing business (i.e. expansion investment).

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This proposed investment must be made from your own personal funds. External financing, including
mortgages and loans, will not be considered toward your personal investment.

You must score at least 1 point to meet the minimum requirement for this section. If you are
proposing a BC PNP key staff applicant, you must score at least 2 points to meet the minimum
requirement.

You will receive points for your proposed eligible personal investment based on the following table:

Eligible Personal Investment Points

Less than $200,000 or less than $50,000 of eligible expansion
0
investments
$200,000 to $399,999 1
$400,000 to $599,999 2
$600,000 to $799,999 3
$800,000 or more 4
Maximum Score Available 4

5.2 (B)(d) Assessment of proposed personal investment

You must describe your proposed investments. The BC PNP will assess your proposed investments and
assign you a score in your business concept based on whether the expenditure is deemed essential to
establish and operate a new business or to purchase, improve and operate an existing business. Your
proposed personal investment will also be considered against the type and scope of the proposed
business, the market, the products/services, the business model, and the industry and/or local
standards.

Assessment of Proposed Personal Investment Points

Investment proposal does not correspond to the type or scale of the business 0
Investment proposal corresponds to the type and scale of the business 4
Investment proposal corresponds to the type and scale of the business, the market,
the proposed products and/or services, the business model, and the industry 6
standard.
Maximum Score Available 6

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The assessment of proposed personal investment is based on the following criteria:

• Unsubstantiated (0 points): the proposed investments are not substantiated, or appear

overstated and/or unreasonable based on the type and scale of the business (and expansion
plan, if applicable)

• Substantiated (4 points): the investment appears to correspond to the type and scale of the
business given the information provided.

• Well-substantiated and researched (6 points): the proposed investments are detailed and
substantiated in the business concept demonstrating that the registrant has conducted a
significant amount of due diligence. The investment appears to correspond to the type and scale
of the business as well as the market, the proposed products and/or services, the business
model, and the industry standard.

5.2 (B)(e) Ownership percentage

You must demonstrate you will own at least one-third (33 1/3 per cent) of the business in B.C.

If your ownership is less than 33 1/3 per cent, you must invest a minimum of $1 million in order to not
be disqualified. This investment must be an equity purchase. Please refer to the business requirements
section of this guide.

You will receive points for ownership percentage based on the following table:

Ownership percentage Points

100% ownership 4
More than 50% and less than 100% 3
33 1/3% to 50% 2
Less than 33 1/3% ownership 0
Maximum Score Available 4

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5.2 (B)(f) Risk factors

The BC PNP will consider the potential for any risk factors of your proposed business and your ability to
address risks.

You will receive points for risk factors based on the following table:

Risk Factors Points

• proposing external financing
OR
• proposing to invest more than 50% of your PNW 0
OR
• you are proposing to partner with a co-registrant
None of the above 2

Maximum Score Available 2

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5.2 (C) Transferability of Skills

5.2 (C)(a) Business owner-manager experience only

5.2 (C)(b) Senior manager work experience only
5.2 (C)(c) Language ability

Transferable skills are assessed by considering the similarity of the industry of your business/work
experience to that of your proposed business in B.C.

You will be assigned points for your transferable skills at the registration stage, and if you are invited to
apply, the BC PNP will assess your transferable skills at the application stage.

You will receive points based on your direct experience and/or experience in related industries
for the last 10 years.

• Direct experience is defined as experience gained in the same industry and sector
corresponding to the first three digits of the proposed NAICS code.

• Related experience is defined as experience gained in a similar industry operating in a related

business line as the proposed business based on the proposed NAICS code.

To identify the industry sector, please refer to the NAICS.

The BC PNP will confirm the registrant’s entered NAICS code corresponds to the registrant’s industry
experience.

Definitions of active business owner-manager and senior manager are described in the personal
requirements section of this Guide.

Transferability of Skills Points

Business owner-manager experience only 20
Senior manager work experience only 14
Language ability 2

Maximum Score Available 20

If you have business ownership and senior management work experience, your score will be calculated
by combining your business experience and your work experience with the following equation:

(Total business experience only points) + (50 per cent of points calculated from work experience only)*

* Unless your work experience only points are greater than the combined total.

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5.2 (C)(a) Business owner-manager experience only

How many years as an active owner-manager in a similar business from the last 10 years based on
NAICS.

Business Owner-Manager Experience Points

12+ months of experience in an unrelated industry 2
12 months or less of direct experience or 12 to 36 months of related experience 5
13 to 24 months of direct experience or 37+ months of related experience 8
13 to 24 months of direct experience and 37+ months of related experience 10
25 to 36 months of direct experience 12
25 to 36 months of direct experience and 37+ months of related experience 14
37 to 60 months of direct experience 16
37 to 60 months of direct experience and 37+ months of related experience 18
More than 60 months of direct experience 20
Maximum Score Available 20

5.2 (C)(b) Senior manager work experience only

How many years in a similar position as a senior manager from the last 10 years (without ownership
or less than 10 per cent ownership) based on NAICS.

Senior Manager Work Experience Only Points

12+ months of experience in an unrelated industry 2
12 months or less of direct experience or 12 to 36 months of related experience 4
13 to 36 months of direct experience or 37+ months of related experience 6
13 to 36 months of direct experience and 37+ months of related experience 8
37 to 60 months of direct experience 10
37 to 60 months of direct experience and 37+ months of related experience 12
More than 60 months of direct experience 14
Maximum Score Available 14

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5.2 (C)(c) Language ability

Additional points will be awarded if you have official language (English or French) proficiency (as
declared in the adaptability tab).

If you have already been awarded the maximum 20 points for this section, no additional points will be
awarded for language ability.

Language Ability Points

Minimal to none (Similar to CLB 3 or below) 0
Basic language proficiency (Similar to CLB 4) 1
Intermediate or above language proficiency (Similar to CLB 5 or above) 2

Maximum Score Available 2

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5.2 (D) Economic Benefits

5.2 (D)(a) Key sectors and/or significant economic benefits

5.2 (D)(b) Jobs assessment
5.2 (D)(c) High-skilled jobs
5.2 (D)(d) Development region

You will receive points based on the potential to add economic benefits to British Columbia. The BC PNP
will review your registration and assign points for the following factors used to demonstrate the
economic benefits of the proposed business in B.C.

You must substantiate your proposed economic benefit factors.

Overall Economic Benefit Points Points

Key Sector & Significant Economic Benefit 12
Jobs assessment 6
High-skilled jobs (NOC 0, A or B) 4
Regional Development 8

Maximum Score Available 30

5.2 (D)(a) Key sectors and/or significant economic benefits

The following key sectors are eligible for additional points:

• Agrifoods: food production and food processing

• Biomedical: includes research and development, manufacturing, etc.
• Destination Tourism: businesses that target tourists directly where its products/services are the
tourist attractions rather than businesses that offer spin-off activities from the tourism industry
• Forestry
• International Education: proposed accredited educational institutions that offer educational
programs in B.C. to foreign students
• Mining & Energy or Natural Gas Sector
• Technology and Green Economy
• Transportation
• Value-Added Manufacturing: for businesses the offer high-value added manufacturing – not
basic or assembly of foreign-made products

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Other significant economic benefits that the proposed business may demonstrate:

• Adopting new technology: the new technology must not already be in regular use in similar
businesses
• Developing new products & services
• Developing innovative approaches to traditional businesses: innovative approaches are
considered high-value (technology-based) and not already in regular use by similar businesses
• Increasing exports: primary businesses that will/may increase exports. This does not include
businesses that facilitate exports/trade such as trading companies or agencies
• Increasing research and development, and technology commercialization
• Indigenous Peoples and First Nations: partnering with or receiving support from First Nations
communities for businesses that affect the First Nation community, and/or largely benefit First
Nations communities and/or Indigenous peoples
• Providing products or services to an under-served local or regional market
• Transferring technology and specialized knowledge to B.C.: facilitates and/or supports the high
technology industry, and/or provides opportunities to develop technology products/services in
B.C.

Key Sector / Significant Economic Benefit Scoring Points

Does not identify or substantiate any key sectors or any significant economic
3
benefits
Substantiates at least 1 key sector or at least 1 significant economic benefit 8
Substantiates at least 1 key sector and at least 1 significant economic benefit 12
Maximum Score Available 12

5.2 (D)(b) Jobs assessment

The BC PNP will assess your jobs plan based on the type and scope of the proposed business, the
market, the proposed products and/or services, the business model, and the industry standard.

You must score at least 1 point to meet the minimum requirement for this section.

Jobs assessment Points

The business concept does not support the creation of at least 1 FTE position,
0
or, if proposing a key staff, the creation of at least 3 FTE positions
Jobs plan does not correspond to the type and scale of the business 1
Jobs plan corresponds to the type and scale of the business 6
Maximum Score Available 6

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The jobs assessment is based on the following criteria:

• Does not support minimum eligibility criteria (0 points): the jobs plan provides insufficient or
incomplete information where the BC PNP cannot determine whether the business concept
supports the creation of the minimum FTE requirement. Or, the jobs plan only proposes the
creation of occupations that are typically contracted out or do not meet the minimum 30 hours
per week (or 1,560 hours per year).

• Unsubstantiated (1 point): the proposed job creation plan is not substantiated, or appears
overstated and/or unreasonable based on the type and scale of the business (and expansion
plan, if applicable), and/or industry norms. If purchasing an existing business, the job creation
plan is inconsistent with the proposed expansion plan and/or historical financial information.

• Substantiated (6 points): the jobs plan appears consistent with the business model and
corresponds to the type and scale of the business. Satisfactory information provided.

5.2 (D)(c) High-skilled jobs

You will receive points for proposing to create or maintain jobs in high-skilled occupations as defined as
skill levels 0, A, or B under the NOC.

High-skilled jobs (NOC 0, A or B) Points

Business concept does not propose or substantiate hiring any
0
high-skilled positions
Business concept substantiates the creation/maintenance of one high-skilled
2
position
Business concept substantiates the creation/maintenance of two or more
4
high-skilled positions
Maximum Score Available 4

The high-skilled jobs assessment is based on the following criteria:

• The NOC code and whether it corresponds to the job title and proposed duties.

• The proposed occupations are substantiated and are typically employed as full-time positions
within the same industry and/or business scale.

• The proposed wages appear to be consistent with industry norms (for this stage of the business
life cycle).

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5.2 (D)(d) Development region

The BC PNP will assign additional points in your business concept for the location of the proposed
business based on B.C.’s development regions.

Development Region of B.C. Points

Lower Mainland / Southwest 2
Vancouver Island and Coast 4
Thompson / Okanagan 4
Cariboo 6
Kootenay 8
Nechako 8
North Coast 8
Northeast 8
Maximum Score Available 8

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Notes

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 BC Provincial Nominee Program
450-605 Robson Street
Vancouver, B.C. V6B 5J3
Canada

E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.WelcomeBC.ca/PNP

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