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Plane Check Your Eligibility

Start-Up Visa

Table of Contents

Overview

Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program (SUV) offers permanent residency to foreign entrepreneurs who have an innovative business idea supported by a designated Canadian investor. This program is designed for high-potential founders who want to build scalable companies and contribute to the Canadian economy.

Who Is Eligible?

You can apply for the Start-Up Visa if you:

  • Have a qualifying business idea that is innovative, scalable, and job-creating

  • Secure a letter of support from a designated organization:

    • Venture capital fund (min. $200,000 CAD commitment)

    • Angel investor group (min. $75,000 CAD commitment)

    • Approved business incubator (acceptance into program — no minimum investment required)

  • Meet the language requirement (CLB 5 in English or French)

  • Have enough settlement funds to support yourself and family

  • Intend to actively manage and operate the business in Canada

You can apply alone or as part of a team (up to 5 founders, each owning at least 10% of the company).

What Is a Qualifying Business?

Your business must be:

  • Incorporated and carrying out business activities in Canada

  • Connected to the designated organization’s support

  • Owned at least 50% jointly by you and the designated group at the time of commitment

  • Controlled and operated from Canada after PR is granted

Application Process

Start-Up Visa Steps

Pitch your idea and secure a commitment from a designated organization

Pitch Your Idea

Receive a Letter of Support

Get Support Letter

Gather required documents (language test, proof of funds, business documents)

Prepare Documents

Submit your PR application to IRCC

Apply for PR

Optionally apply for a temporary work permit while waiting for PR

Launch in Canada

Once approved, land in Canada and launch your start-up

Processing Time

  • Start-Up Visa applications can take 12 to 18 months, depending on review volume

  • Work permits under SUV (if needed): ~4–12 weeks

Need Help?

Our business immigration lawyers help you:

  • Refine your business concept to meet SUV standards

  • Connect with designated venture funds, angel groups, and incubators

  • Prepare your pitch deck, business plan, and incorporation documents

  • Ensure your PR application is complete and IRCC-compliant

Apply for a temporary work permit to start operations before PR is approved

Get Help With Your Application

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