Start-up Visa
Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program offers innovative entrepreneurs the chance to launch their businesses in one of the world’s most thriving economies. This program enables you to secure Canadian permanent residency while driving economic growth and innovation in Canada.
Why Choose the Start-Up Visa Program?
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Obtain Canadian permanent residence for yourself and your family while establishing a future-focused business.
Global Opportunities: Build your venture in a supportive ecosystem with access to funding, mentorship, and a highly skilled workforce.
Family Inclusion: Bring your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children to Canada for a seamless transition.
Start Your Business in Canada: Gain the resources, network, and support needed to launch and grow a successful business in Canada.
Start-Up Visa Program: Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Start-Up Visa Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Have a Qualifying Business
Each applicant must hold at least 10% of the voting rights in the business.
Together with the designated organization, they must collectively hold more than 50% of the voting rights.
The business must be incorporated and operating in Canada, with active and ongoing management from within the country.
2. Obtain a Letter of Support from a Designated Organization
Secure a Letter of Support from one of the designated organizations approved by the Canadian government.
These organizations include:
Venture Capital Funds: Must confirm an investment of at least CAD $200,000.
Angel Investor Groups: Must invest a minimum of CAD $75,000.
Business Incubators: Must accept the applicant into their incubation program.
Note: As of recent updates, each designated organization is limited to supporting up to 10 start-up applications per year until December 31, 2026.
3. Meet Language Requirements
Demonstrate proficiency in either English or French at a minimum of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 in speaking, reading, listening, and writing.
4. Have Sufficient Settlement Funds
Provide proof of sufficient, unencumbered funds to support yourself and your dependents upon arrival in Canada.
The required amount varies depending on the size of your family and is updated annually by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
5. Plan to Settle Outside Quebec
The Start-Up Visa Program is not available for individuals intending to settle in the province of Quebec.
How the Start-Up Visa Program Works
Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program is designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs from around the world. Here’s a step-by-step look at how the process unfolds:
Secure Support from a Designated Organization
Obtain a letter of support from a government-approved venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator that believes in your business concept.Submit Your Application for Permanent Residency
Apply for permanent visa Canada through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) with the required documents and business credentials.Apply for a Work Permit (Optional)
While your PR application is being processed, you can apply for a temporary work permit to start building your business in Canada sooner.
Benefits of the Start-Up Visa Program
The Start-Up Visa Program offers more than just immigration—it’s a gateway to business growth, innovation, and long-term stability in Canada.
Entrepreneurial Pathway to Canada
The Start-Up Visa offers a direct route for business-minded individuals to immigrate to Canada and launch innovative ventures.Build and Scale with Global Talent
As a founder, you can hire top-tier professionals to support your business growth and operational success in the Canadian market.Contribute to Canada’s Economy
This program encourages job creation and economic development, allowing entrepreneurs to thrive while supporting Canada and immigration goals.
Why Choose Northia Immigration?
With years of experience in business immigration, our team at Northia Immigration Consultancy is here to help you make your Canadian dream a reality.
We understand the challenges involved in launching a business abroad. From developing a compelling business plan to securing the support of designated organizations, we guide you every step of the way. Our personalized approach ensures that your Canada immigration application is accurate, complete, and fully aligned with immigration requirements.
Need Help? Start Here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program?
The SUV program offers entrepreneurs a chance to gain permanent residency by launching a business in Canada. You must secure support from a designated organization, prove your business idea is innovative, meet language requirements, and have enough funds to settle in Canada
How do I secure a letter of support for my Start-Up Visa application?
To secure a letter of support, you need to pitch your business idea to a designated organization approved by the Canadian government, such as a venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator. If they find your idea promising, they will issue a letter of support, which you must include in your application.
Can my family accompany me if I am approved under the Start-Up Visa Program?
Yes, if you are approved for permanent residency through the Start-Up Visa Program, your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children can also apply for permanent residency and join you in Canada.
Can essential members of the start-up team apply for a work permit under the Start-Up Visa Program?
Yes, essential members of the start-up team, as identified by the designated organization, can apply for a work permit while waiting for permanent residency.
Are there specific industries that qualify for the Start-Up Visa Program?
No, the Start-Up Visa Program does not restrict applicants to specific industries. However, the business must be innovative, scalable, and able to create jobs for Canadians. It's essential to have a unique idea that interests a designated organization, regardless of industry.
Can multiple founders apply for the Start-Up Visa with the same business?
Yes, up to five founders can apply for the Start-Up Visa with the same business as long as they all meet the eligibility requirements. Each founder must own at least 10% of the voting rights, and together with the designated organization, they must control more than 50% of the voting rights in the business.
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