Eligibility Criteria

International Graduate Entrepreneur – Who Can Apply?

This category is for graduates of Memorial University or College of the North Atlantic who want to live in Newfoundland and Labrador permanently and run a business.

To qualify, you must:

  • Be 21 or older
  • Submit a business continuity plan with verified financial documents (you cover the cost)
  • Have completed a degree or diploma (minimum 2 years, full-time, in-person) within the last 2 years
  • Hold a valid post-graduate work permit
  • Own and actively manage a local business (at least 33.3% ownership) for 1 full year
  • Create at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • Run a for-profit business
  • Score CLB 7 or higher in English or French (speaking, listening, reading, writing)
  • Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

Applicants focused on regional development or high-demand sectors (e.g., agriculture, aquaculture, tech, natural resources) get priority.

Two Business Streams

  1. Starting a New Business

You must create at least one full-time, year-round job that:

  • Is not filled by a family member
  • Is directly related to your business
  • Pays a fair, competitive wage
  1. Buying an Existing Business

You must ensure:

  • The business has been running under the same owner for the past 5 years
  • The business is active and not in receivership
  • You pay fair market value
  • You keep current staff with the same wages and conditions

Who Can’t Apply

You’re not eligible if you are:

  • Living illegally in your country
  • Under a removal order from IRCC or CBSA
  • Banned from entering Canada
  • A passive investor (not involved in daily business operations)
  • Without legal status (until it’s restored)

Ineligible Businesses

The following types of businesses are not allowed:

  • Remote businesses (run from outside NL or Canada)
  • Property rental, leasing, or investment businesses
  • Real estate, insurance, or business brokerages (unless proven to benefit NL)
  • Regulated professional services or self-employment
  • Payday loans, cheque cashing, money exchange, ATMs
  • Pawn shops or taxi companies
  • Home-based businesses (unless proven to benefit NL)
  • Adult content or services
  • Non-profits
  • Passive investment businesses
  • Commission-only jobs
  • Any business that could harm the reputation of the program or government