The federal Start-up Visa Program closed to new applications at 11:59 p.m. on December 31, 2025. The only exception was for entrepreneurs who already held a valid 2025 commitment certificate from a designated organization, and that window ended on June 30, 2026. IRCC continues to process applications already submitted. IRCC has announced a new, targeted pilot program for immigrant entrepreneurs, but it has not yet published the requirements or an opening date. If you are an entrepreneur or investor, please contact us to review the provincial entrepreneur streams and other options that may suit your profile.
Canada is one of the most popular and attractive destinations for immigration, as it holds a steadily growing economy, high standards of living, quality education, and a safe living environment. Launched by the Government of Canada, the Start-Up Visa Program attracts active and motivated people looking to establish a business in Canada, as it will in turn stimulate the Canadian economy and create more employment opportunities for Canadian residents.
Start-Up Visa
The Start-Up Visa Program (SUV) was designed for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas supported by a designated Canadian organization, such as a venture capital fund, an angel investor group or a business incubator. Up to five people could apply together as owners of the same business, and each applicant could include their family members. No personal minimum investment was required, but each application needed a letter of support from a designated organization, which also sent a commitment certificate to IRCC. The program is now closed to new applications; see the program status above.
Since December 19, 2025, IRCC no longer accepts new applications for the optional Start-up Visa work permit. People already in Canada with a Start-up Visa work permit may be able to extend it while their permanent residence application is being processed, and IRCC is prioritizing their permanent residence applications.
REQUIREMENTS (FOR APPLICATIONS ALREADY IN PROCESS)
To be eligible, applicants had to:
Start-Up Visa
Designated organizations are Canadian venture capital funds, angel investor groups and business incubators approved to support start-up businesses under the program. They assessed business ideas and issued a letter of support and commitment certificate to the entrepreneurs they chose to support. Since the program has closed, designated organizations can no longer support new Start-up Visa applicants.
Since December 19, 2025, IRCC no longer accepts new applications for the optional Start-up Visa work permit. People already in Canada with a Start-up Visa work permit may be able to extend it while their permanent residence application is being processed, and IRCC is prioritizing their permanent residence applications.
Start-Up Visa
The application process for a Start-Up Visa Program involves preparing a variety of forms and documentation.
Once all documentation has been prepared, applicants must pay the necessary fees and submit the application online to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The IRCC will assess the application based on various factors, including the viability of the business idea, the entrepreneur’s ability to execute the business plan, and their potential to contribute to the Canadian economy.
Start-Up Visa
Once the application is approved, applicants and their families will be granted permanent residency in Canada. This will allow them to live and work in Canada indefinitely, allowing access to the many benefits including health care and education.
The Start-up Visa Program offers a pathway for innovative entrepreneurs to immigrate to Canada, contributing to the country’s economic growth and fostering innovation in various sectors.
SCHEDULE CONSULTATION
Schedule a meeting with Mehraneh Tabatabaee to analyze your situation and help you to choose immigration program.