The New Brunswick Business Immigration Stream (NBBIS) is a permanent residency pathway designed for experienced entrepreneurs who wish to start, operate, and actively manage a business in New Brunswick. This stream replaces the previous Entrepreneurial Stream and reflects the province’s strategic effort to attract business-minded immigrants ready to invest and integrate into New Brunswick’s economy and society.
This all-in-one guide explains the eligibility criteria, application steps, forms, post-nomination procedures, and essential tips to help you succeed through the New Brunswick Business Immigration Stream.
Overview: What Is the NBBIS?
The New Brunswick Business Immigration Stream is an economic immigration program under the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP). It is aimed at foreign nationals who have demonstrated experience in business ownership or senior management and intend to settle permanently by running a business in the province.
To be eligible, candidates must first operate their business in New Brunswick for at least six consecutive months before being considered for nomination. If successful, the nominee can apply for Canadian permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Eligibility Requirements
To submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), you must meet the following minimum eligibility criteria:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age | 19 to 59 years old |
| Language Proficiency | Minimum CLB 4 in English or French |
| Education | High school diploma or higher |
| Net Worth | Minimum $500,000 CAD (or $300,000 CAD for farm applicants) |
| Business Experience | 51% ownership in a company OR senior management role supervising 2 employees for 2 of the last 5 years |
| Investment | Minimum $150,000 CAD in eligible business expenses |
| Job Creation | At least 1 full-time job for a Canadian or PR |
| EOI Score | Minimum 65 points on the selection grid |
Submitting an EOI does not guarantee an invitation. Selection is influenced by New Brunswick’s economic priorities, labour market demand, program inventory, and IRCC’s nomination allocations.
Selection Priorities: Increase Your Chances
Priority is given to applicants who meet one or more of the following:
- Conducted a business exploratory visit to NB within the last 12 months (minimum 5 days)
- Studied in New Brunswick (minimum 1-year diploma or certificate from a recognized post-secondary institution)
- Worked in NB in a high-skilled role for 6 months (spouse included)
- Have close family ties in NB (siblings, parents, etc.; not cousins)
- Have a Letter of Support from the Department of Agriculture for agriculture-based business plans
Getting Started: Expression of Interest (EOI)
Step 1: Review the Guide
Before beginning, read the official New Brunswick Business Immigration Stream guide. It outlines selection factors, document requirements, and process timelines.
Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Create an account on the INB Portal and submit your EOI. You must meet the minimum eligibility criteria and score at least 65 points to qualify.
Step 3: Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If selected, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in your INB account. You may then proceed to submit a complete application.
Submitting a Complete Application
Step 4: Complete Your Application
Applications must be submitted electronically through the INB Portal. Required documents must be in PDF format and include all supporting evidence, forms, and declarations.
Step 5: Pay Your Processing Fee
The non-refundable application fee is $250 CAD, payable via credit card or Interac. This covers the principal applicant and all dependents.
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
The NB government will review your application. If successful, you’ll receive a nomination certificate and instructions to apply for permanent residence through IRCC.
Important: You must maintain all conditions in your business performance agreement during processing and until PR is granted.
Required Application Forms
When applying, you’ll be asked to upload the following official forms:
| Form Code | Title |
|---|---|
| NBBIS-001 | Document Checklist |
| NBBIS-BP | Business Plan |
| NBBIS-002 | Personal Net Worth Statement |
| NBBIS-003 | Narrative Statement of Accumulated Funds |
| NBBIS-004 | Report of Arrival in Canada |
| NBBIS-005 | Report of Business Opening |
| NBBIS-006 | Request for Nomination |
| NBBIS-007 | Request for Change in Business Plan (if needed) |
Additional optional forms include:
- NB-007 Use of Representative (if hiring an agent)
- NB-011 Request to Withdraw Application
- NB-025 Authorized Paid Representative Enrolment
After Nomination: Next Steps Toward Permanent Residency
Once nominated by the Government of New Brunswick, you are eligible to apply for permanent residency through IRCC. However, you and your accompanying family members must still pass standard medical, security, and criminal admissibility checks.
Temporary Work Permit Support
You’ll also receive a Letter of Support for a temporary work permit. This allows you to legally operate your business while awaiting a decision on your PR application.
Note: Nomination does not guarantee PR. Final decisions rest with IRCC.
Expert Tips for Applicants
- Document everything thoroughly — especially your net worth, business ownership, and source of funds.
- Visit NB early and attend meetings with business support groups.
- Be ready to pivot your business model if required during performance agreement monitoring.
- Follow your business plan closely and be proactive in updating NB immigration if changes are necessary.
- Build local ties — join chambers of commerce, attend startup events, and hire locally to enhance your nomination strength.
Why Choose New Brunswick?
New Brunswick offers:
- Lower startup and living costs than Ontario or BC
- Bilingual workforce and multicultural communities
- Direct access to U.S. markets via road and port infrastructure
- Strong government support for immigrant entrepreneurship
- Peaceful, safe cities ideal for families
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