The Start-Up Visa Program is a Canadian immigration pathway designed for entrepreneurs who have innovative business ideas that can contribute to Canada’s economy. This program allows foreign entrepreneurs to gain permanent residency (PR) by establishing a qualifying start-up in Canada.
To qualify, applicants must have a business idea that is innovative, scalable, and competitive globally. They must also secure support from a designated organization, which could be a venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator. Unlike other immigration programs, there is no minimum investment requirement from the applicant, but they must demonstrate sufficient settlement funds.
Successful applicants receive a work permit to launch their business while their permanent residency application is processed. This program is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to build globally competitive businesses in Canada’s thriving start-up ecosystem.
Process to Apply for a Start-Up Visa
✅ Step 1: Secure Support from a Designated Organization
- Pitch your business idea to a venture capital firm, angel investor, or business incubator.
- Obtain a Letter of Support from one of these organizations.
✅ Step 2: Meet the Eligibility Criteria
- Own at least 10% of the business along with the designated organization.
- Have intermediate proficiency in English or French (CLB 5).
- Demonstrate sufficient settlement funds for living expenses in Canada.
✅ Step 3: Submit the Start-Up Visa Application
- Complete and submit the permanent residence application along with the Letter of Support.
- Provide required documents, including proof of language proficiency, business ownership, and financial capacity.
✅ Step 4: Obtain Work Permit & PR Approval
- While waiting for permanent residency, apply for a work permit to start your business in Canada.
- Once PR is approved, move to Canada and scale the business.
Necessary Documents for the Start-Up Visa Application
✅ Letter of Support from a designated venture capital fund, angel investor, or incubator
✅ Proof of business ownership (business plan, registration documents)
✅ Language proficiency test results (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF – minimum CLB 5)
✅ Proof of settlement funds (bank statements, financial statements)
✅ Police clearance certificate (criminal record check)
✅ Medical examination certificate
FAQ Related To Start-Up Visa Program
Applicants must have:
a. A Letter of Support from a designated organization
b. Ownership of at least 10% of the business
c. CLB 5 in English or French
d. Sufficient settlement funds to support themselves in Canada
There is no minimum personal investment required. However, if a venture capital fund supports your business, they must invest at least $200,000, and an angel investor group must invest at least $75,000.
Yes! Up to five founders can apply under one business, but they must each meet eligibility requirements.
Processing time varies but typically takes 12 to 18 months for PR approval. A work permit can be issued faster so you can start your business in Canada.
No. The Letter of Support from a designated organization is mandatory for the Start-Up Visa application.
Your permanent residency (PR) is not affected if your business does not succeed. Canada recognizes the risk involved in entrepreneurship.
Yes! Once you receive a Letter of Support, you can apply for a work permit to launch your business in Canada while your PR application is processed.
Yes! Your spouse and dependent children can be included in your PR application. Your spouse may also be eligible for an open work permit.
