On December 19, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced major changes to its business immigration programs. The Start-up Visa (SUV) Program is closing
On December 19, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced major changes to its business immigration programs. The Start-up Visa (SUV) Program is closing to new applications.
Key Changes
- Optional work permit: As of December 19, 2025, IRCC no longer accepts applications for the optional SUV work permit. The only exception is people already in Canada applying to extend their current SUV work permit.
- New applications: IRCC stops accepting new Start-up Visa applications after 11:59 p.m. on December 31, 2025.
- Exception: Applicants who hold a valid commitment from a designated organization made in 2025 and who have not yet applied are exempt from the closure.
- Prioritization: IRCC is prioritizing permanent residence applications from people in Canada who hold an SUV-specific work permit, within the Immigration Levels Plan targets.
- Self-Employed Persons Program: The existing pause on new applications is extended until further notice.
Why Is This Happening?
IRCC says the changes support the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan and Canada’s talent attraction strategy, and will help reduce the large inventory of applications in the business programs.
A New Pilot for Entrepreneurs
IRCC states that these changes lay the groundwork for a new, targeted pilot program for immigrant entrepreneurs, with more information to be shared in 2026.
Who is Affected?
- Founders who planned to apply through the SUV Program without a 2025 commitment.
- Entrepreneurs who planned to come to Canada on an SUV work permit while their application was processed.
- Anyone interested in the Self-Employed Persons Program.
Next Steps for Entrepreneurs
- If you hold a 2025 commitment, confirm that you meet the exception and prepare a complete application.
- If you are already in Canada on an SUV work permit, review your extension options before your permit expires.
- Follow IRCC’s official announcements about the new entrepreneur pilot.
To review your business immigration options, complete our online assessment or contact our office to book a consultation.
Source: IRCC notice – Immigration measures for entrepreneurs (Start-up Visa)