Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP)

Why choose Canada?
 
In many parts of the world, the word “immigration” is a hotbed for international debate. Indeed, the UK’s Brexit referendum and Donald Trump’s recent immigration policies have caused many to question the future of immigration in general. But for Canada, welcoming immigration remains a staple of government policy and support from citizens across the country. Now more than ever, foreign investors are turning to opportunities found in the North American provinces.
 
Although Canada doesn’t offer citizenship by investment opportunities, they do offer permanent residency to successful applicants and their immediate family members. What does this mean? For starters, permanent residents in Canada have the same rights and benefits as Canadian citizens, including access to first-class healthcare, education, and other social benefits. Even more, Canada continuously ranks in the top three countries for families to live in and celebrates cultural diversity and immigration as strengths for continued growth and economic success.
 
Between 2000 and 2015, Canada has welcomed over 160,000 foreign nationals and their families under business immigration programs, with the majority settling in the provinces of British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec. 
 
When it comes to Canadian business immigration programs, the most practical route is usually the best route. However, choosing a program befitting to an applicant’s qualifications and needs can be a tricky process. Choosing where and how to immigrate are important decisions, and avoiding added or unnecessary stress is why the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP) is at the top of our list of recommendations for Canada.
 
Why choose the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP)?
 
Without question, the QIIP is Canada’s most popular business immigration program and the top choice for qualified applicants seeking Canadian permanent residency.  In a nutshell, the QIIP is simply one of the simplest and smartest investment options for Canadian immigration.
 
The QIIP, first established in 1985, is a federally sponsored immigration program designed to attract high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals. Qualified investors must have a legally-acquired minimum net worth of CAD $1.6 million and requires a CAD $800,000 investment into Quebec, which is returned in full after five years with 0% interest.
 
Unlike several business-category Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), the QIIP does not require applicants or spouses to meet language proficiency requirements, nor are they required to submit a business plan as part of the application process. Although managing a business in the province is not required, applicants must demonstrate a minimum of two years’ senior management experience within the five years preceding submission of the application to qualify. In addition, applicants must prove to immigration officers the intention to reside in Quebec upon arrival to the province. While regional knowledge and language proficiency are not official requirements, applicants are encouraged to do preliminary research about Quebec and/or take steps towards learning French, Quebec’s official language. After approval is granted, applicants and their families can reside anywhere of their choosing in Canada.
 
Final thoughts
 
As previously stated, there are significant differences between Canadian business immigration programs and the requirements they entail. While the PNPs are ideal for entrepreneurs interested in establishing or expanding a business in a specific province, the QIIP offers an ideal alternative to those looking for a secure, passive investment without the pressure of managing day-to-day operations of a company.
 
Added benefits of the QIIP are hard to pass up: visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to 172 countries (including the UK and Schengen region), the freedom to live, work, study, or retire anywhere in Canada, as well as the opportunity to apply for Canadian citizenship after four years of permanent residency.
 
For immigration and residency solutions, Canada offers foreign nationals the best choice for their investment. Contact our office today to begin the steps towards a better future.
 
For more information on the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program, please click here.
 
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