Common risks of investor programs

Entrepreneur programs involve large sums and long timelines, so the risks are significant. Understanding them helps you decide clearly.

Policy risks

• Programs can close or pause suddenly. Examples: the Start-up Visa stopped taking new files from December 31, 2025, Self-Employed paused from April 30, 2024, and Ontario closed its older OINP streams.
• Net worth, investment and language requirements can change between preparing and applying.
• According to IRCC, processing can take longer when applications exceed annual immigration targets.

Application risks

• Being unable to prove the lawful origin of assets.
• The wrong category: for example, a company operating only in Vietnam can't use the ICT (C61) to open its first Canadian branch.
• Inconsistent information or poor translations; false information may be treated as misrepresentation, leading to a ban.

Business risks

• Missing the investment, job or management commitments in the provincial agreement, leading to no nomination.
• A smaller local market than expected, especially in rural communities.
• Higher than planned costs for setup, premises and hiring.

Financial and family risks

• Capital tied up in the business for years.
• Living costs and children's school fees during the work permit stage.
• Your spouse may not qualify for an open work permit, depending on the category.

Third-party risks

• Brokers promising "guaranteed approval" or selling "slots" in closed programs.
• Unauthorized representatives; IRCC may return or refuse applications that use unauthorized paid representatives.

Reducing risk

• Read requirements on IRCC's and the province's official pages just before applying.
• Prepare complete financial records early.
• Research the market and community in person.
• Only use licensed representatives for legal advice and representation.

Note According to the AAIP, submitting a business application or being nominated doesn't guarantee permanent residence. IRCC makes the final decision.