At Croyez Immigration, our consultants understand the contributions made by International graduates to the Canadian economy. If you have completed your graduation in Nova Scotia and want to begin your business in the province, the Nova Scotia International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream will be the best immigration pathway. The IGE stream provides international graduates an opportunity to start, operate and own a business in Nova Scotia which will eventually lead to getting PR. This stream provides benefits for the aspirations of entrepreneurs and strengthens the local economy through job creation and community development.

What is the Nova Scotia International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream?

The Nova Scotia International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream is an immigration program which comes under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program. This program targets international graduates who have completed their studies in Nova Scotia. This program helps those who want to bring their own business after completing their studies in a recognized post-secondary institution. This program could help applicants get PR.

To qualify for the IGE stream, applicants should open and run a new business in Nova Scotia. The applicants can apply for provincial nomination through the NSNP to get experience and establish their businesses. This will also lead to getting PR through the Provincial Nominee Program.

Eligibility Criteria for the International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream

It is important to make sure that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria before applying for the IGE stream. Below listed are the basic requirements for this program.

International Graduate Status

The applicant has to be graduated from an institution that is recognized in Nova Scotia. The duration of the study program should be at least 2 years. From the date of application, the graduation should have taken place within the last 3 years.

Business Experience

The applicant should own and operate a business in Nova Scotia and have experience of at least one year. This includes running a business, managing day-to-day operations and actively involved in planning and decision-making. The business should operate fully regularly and make a positive impact on the local economy.

Business Ownership

The applicant should own a minimum of 33.3% of the business established or purchased in Nova Scotia. This new business should trade actively and provide products and services within the region.

Business Investment

The business should represent a financial investment of at least $150,000 which will demonstrate our commitment to both community and business. The invested amount should be used to support business operations and growth in NS.

Language Proficiency

Applicants should demonstrate proficiency in French or English through standard proficiency tests such as IELTS or TEF. A score of 7 is the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark known as CLB. This minimum score is required to satisfy the language requirements.

Active Business Operations

The new business launched or purchased must operate on a full-time basis. This will make sure that the applicant is actively involved in managing and looking after the operations, focusing on community impact and growth.

Intent to Settle in Nova Scotia

The applicant should have an intent to live and settle in Nova Scotia as part of the program. The business operations should contribute to the long-term economic success of the province.

Steps to Apply for the Nova Scotia International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream

There are several important steps involved in the application process for Nova Scotia. Following the below steps will make sure your process is simplified.

Review Eligibility Requirements

The applicant has to carefully evaluate the eligibility requirements making sure to meet the standards for each program. If the applicant fails to meet the requirements, the application will be rejected. So attention and care should be taken while checking eligibility.

Develop a Business Plan

The next part of the application process is the business plan. The applicant has to outline a business idea, operational strategy, financial projections and operational strategy. The business plan should demonstrate how well the business will contribute to the economy of Nova Scotia. A proper and well-structured plan easily increases the chances of the application being successful.

Operate Your Business

To process the next steps, the applicant has to prove that the business has been successfully operating for the last year. During this year the business owner should focus on growing the business and making sure it is compliant with the local rules and regulations. The applicant should make sure that the business potentially contributes to the economy of Nova Scotia by creating considerable revenue. This will strengthen the application and increase the chances of success.

Submit Your Application

The application must be submitted to the Nova Scotia immigration office once the business established has been operating for one year. The application has to be supported by providing documentations which include business plans, proof of investments, financial records and proof of language proficiency. Before applying make sure all the documents are accurate and up-to-date.

Interview and Site Visit

Once the application is submitted, a few applicants will be asked to attend an interview with the immigration team of Nova Scotia. This can be done to verify how the business is operating and the impact it creates on the locals. The applicant should be prepared to answer all the questions and explain them with confidence.

Nomination for Permanent Residency

If the application is successful, the applicant will receive a provincial nomination for Permanent Residency through the Nova Scotia Nominee Program. You can apply for PR through the federal immigration process if you are nominated. The provincial nomination increases the chances of getting a PR. This provides the ability to live, work and run your business in Nova Scotia.