Start-Up Visa Program

Permanent residency for innovative entrepreneurs.

 The Start-Up Visa program connects you with private-sector organizations that can provide essential funding and guidance to help you launch and grow your innovative business within the Canadian economy. This program is designed to attract bright minds who will create new jobs and drive economic growth.

 

Start-Up Visa Program

Permanent residency for innovative entrepreneurs.

 The Start-Up Visa program connects you with private-sector organizations that can provide essential funding and guidance to help you launch and grow your innovative business within the Canadian economy. This program is designed to attract bright minds who will create new jobs and drive economic growth.

 

What is the Start-Up Visa Program?

This program offers a direct route to permanent residency for up to five foreign entrepreneurs who are part of the same business venture. It requires applicants to secure a commitment from a Canadian venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator. Successful applicants can bring their innovative ideas to life while receiving guidance and expertise from private sector organizations in Canada.

 

General Requirements

  • Your business must be supported by a designated venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator, which will provide a Commitment Certificate to IRCC.


  • You must demonstrate a minimum language ability of CLB 5 in all four skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) in either English or French to be eligible.


  • Your business must meet the ownership requirements outlined by the program, and no more than five foreign nationals may apply as part of the same business venture.


  • You must have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family to settle in Canada, even though you are not required to invest your own money into the business.

Essential person clause

If your application is part of a group, one or more "essential persons" may be identified. If an application for an essential person is refused, all other applications in the group will also be refused.

Peer review process

An immigration officer may request a peer review of your business plan to ensure the designated organization has completed the proper due diligence according to industry standards.

No personal investment required

Unlike other investor programs, you are not required to invest any of your own money into the start-up. You also retain your permanent resident status even if the business is unsuccessful.

Start your immigration journey with confidence

Whether you’re handling it yourself or need guidance throughout, we’re here to support you.
Start with a $49.99 one-on-one consulation.
 

Start your immigration journey with confidence

Whether you're ready to start on your own—or want advice every step of the way—we've got your back.
Start with a $49.99 one-on-one consulation.

Express
Consultation

Speak with an immigration expert to get answers to questions and concerns

$49.99 (CAD)

30 minutes with an expert

Answers to basic question

Overview of immigration pathways

Key information on requirements

Premium Consultation & Eligibility Assessment

In-depth analysis, eligibility assessment & tailored strategy

$149.99 (CAD)

60 minutes with an expert

Customized plan to maximize success

Eligibility review, CRS score, and best pathways

Guidance on required documents

Self-Managed Application Support Consultation

Speak with an immigration expert to discuss your self-prepared application.

$199.99 (CAD)

60 minutes with an expert

Tips to strengthen your application

Answers to questions on forms, and requirements

Guidance on next steps after submission

Get the help you need to succeed.

Connecting with partners

We can assist you in identifying and connecting with designated venture capital funds, angel investor groups, or business incubators that align with your business idea.

Application strategy

We will guide you through the entire application process, from meeting language and settlement fund requirements to navigating the peer review process.

Application support

Our experts will ensure all required documents, including the letter of support and Commitment Certificate, are properly prepared and submitted with your application.

Business plan development

Our team can help you create a detailed and compelling business plan that demonstrates the viability and growth potential of your venture to designated organizations.

The Role of Designated Organizations

The support of a designated organization is the most critical element of a successful Start-Up Visa application. These organizations act as a bridge between the government and the entrepreneur. They are responsible for vetting the business idea and the management team, providing funding or mentorship, and submitting the official Commitment Certificate to IRCC. Their approval is a clear signal to immigration officers that the business has a strong chance of success and is worthy of the program.

Peer Review and Fraud Protection

To protect the integrity of the program, a peer review process has been established. An immigration officer can request an independent assessment of a commitment by an industry association, such as the National Angel Capital Organization or Canada's Venture Capital and Private Equity Association. This review ensures that the designated organization has followed industry standards in its due diligence, providing an extra layer of security and legitimacy to the process.

No Guarantees of Business Success

A key feature of the Start-Up Visa Program is that permanent resident status is not conditional on the business's success. This means that even if the start-up fails, you will not lose your permanent resident status. This policy allows entrepreneurs to take the necessary risks to grow a high-potential business without the fear of losing their immigration status.

Interested in a different path?

If you are a high-net-worth individual who prefers a hands-off approach to immigration, a passive investment program may be a better option for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Most immigration programs designed to attract skilled workers let you include your family in your application for permanent residency in Canada. This includes your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children. Additionally, Canada has separate programs where citizens and permanent residents can sponsor certain close relatives for immigration.

While there's no age limit to apply for economic immigration programs, your age will affect your score.  These programs award points based on various factors like education, language skills, work experience, and even having a job lined up in Canada. People between 25 and 35 get the highest score for age, but don't worry!  If you're outside this range, you can make up for it with strong points in other categories.

If you're an international student wanting to study in Canada, you'll need a study permit. To get one, you must first be accepted by a school approved by the Canadian government (called a designated learning institution). You'll also need to show you have enough money to cover your schooling, living costs, and even the ticket back home.

Our commitment is to your success, and we never recommend services unless you genuinely qualify. We believe in open communication and will always explore the most realistic options for your situation. Furthermore, our unwavering support extends beyond the application process. We're with you every step of the way, even in challenging circumstances, ensuring a smooth and successful immigration journey to Canada.

Our team is committed to your success, and we'll explore all realistic pathways to achieve your Canadian immigration goals. We believe in clear communication and will keep you informed throughout the process.

Consult with an immigration expert

licensed and insured representatives with you every step of the way

Consult with an immigration expert

licensed and insured representatives with you every step of the way

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CanadianVisas.com is operated by Can-Am Immigration Inc., a Canadian immigration consulting firm. We provide access to Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), as well as full representation services and self-guided immigration tools. CanadianVisas.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice, except as authorized under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Citizenship Act of Canada.

Consult with an immigration expert.