Start-up Visa Program

The Start-Up Visa Program offers a pathway to permanent residence for innovative entrepreneurs in Canada who receive support from a designated organization. This program is tailored for business founders aiming to build and scale an innovative venture that can compete globally and generate employment opportunities in Canada.

To qualify for permanent residence in Canada through the start-up visa program, applicants must meet all of the following IRCC requirements:

1. **Have a qualifying business**  

At the time of receiving support from a designated organization:  

Each applicant holds 10% or more of voting rights; AND  

Applicants and the designated organization jointly hold more than 50% of the voting rights.  

At the time you receive PR:  

The business must be incorporated in Canada,  

You must actively manage the business from within Canada,  

The business must conduct substantial operations in Canada.  

2. **Obtain a Letter of Support**  

From one of the following IRCC-designated organizations:  

- Venture Capital Fund (minimum investment commitment of $200,000 CAD)  

- Angel Investor Group (minimum investment commitment of $75,000 CAD)  

- Business Incubator (acceptance into an IRCC-approved program)  

Applicants do not need to personally invest funds.  

3. **Meet language requirements**  

Minimum CLB 5 in English or French  

Applies to speaking, listening, reading, and writing.  

4. **Bring settlement funds**  

Must show proof of funds to support yourself and accompanying family members.  

The amount required is based on family size and is updated annually by IRCC.  

These criteria are essential for entrepreneurs in Canada who are seeking to establish a successful business while obtaining permanent residence.

To become one of the entrepreneurs in Canada, first, obtain support and a Letter of Support from a designated organization. Next, submit your PR application under the Start-Up Visa Program. Optionally, you may apply for a Work Permit to begin working in Canada while your permanent residence application is being processed. The IRCC will then review your admissibility, including medical, background, and security checks, before you receive a decision on your Permanent Residence.

If you are among the entrepreneurs in Canada who have already applied for permanent residence through the Start-up Visa Program, you may be eligible for an optional open work permit. This permit can be valid for up to three years, allowing you to work on developing your business while also enabling you to work for most employers in Canada to support your income.

To help avoid delays in your application for permanent residence, especially for entrepreneurs in Canada seeking a start-up visa, it is important to keep the visa office updated about any changes to your personal information. Additionally, refrain from repeatedly inquiring about the same issue. Your application may face delays if additional criminal or security checks are necessary, if your family situation is unclear—such as unresolved custody, divorce, or adoption matters—or if the visa office needs to verify your information with other offices.

Once your permanent residence is approved under the start-up visa program, you and any accompanying family members will receive instructions from IRCC to complete the landing process and obtain your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), a crucial step for entrepreneurs in Canada.

Ready to take the next step towards becoming one of the successful entrepreneurs in Canada? Consider exploring options like the start-up visa to achieve your permanent residence.