Last Updated:March 4, 2025
What is the Start-up Visa Program?
The Start-up Visa Program targets entrepreneurs who have the skills to launch innovative businesses in Canada, create jobs for Canadians, and compete on the global stage. Before applying, entrepreneurs must pitch their startup business idea to a designated organization and secure their support and endorsement. This approval is a crucial step to moving forward with the application process.
Key features and benefits of the Start-up Visa Program
This program is the world’s first initiative designed to connect innovative foreign entrepreneurs with experienced private investment organizations, enabling them to launch new businesses in Canada. It targets foreign entrepreneurs eager to expand their ventures and showcases the unique advantages of doing business in Canada. By highlighting the country’s compelling attributes, this program aims to attract foreign talent and encourage them to consider Canada as the ideal destination for their business ventures.
- Robust economic growth
- Competitive corporate tax rates and low operational costs
- Cutting-edge research and innovation
- High quality of life
Trends and developments after May 2024
- Limit the number of permanent residence applications: Starting in 2024, each designated organization will be restricted to accepting no more than 10 entrepreneurship-related applications for permanent residence annually.
- Priority processing for supported entrepreneurs: Entrepreneurs supported by business incubators that are either funded by Canadian capital or are members of the Canadian Tech Network will receive prioritized processing for their applications.
Requirements for the Start-up Visa Program
Engaged in eligible business activities
- Ownership requirement: At the time of receiving a commitment for investment from a designated investment organization, each applicant must hold at least 10% of the voting rights in the business, based on the total shares issued by the company at that time. Note: A maximum of 5 applicants can apply as owners for the same business.
- Joint ownership with designated investment organization: At the time of receiving the investment commitment from a designated organization, the applicant and the investment organization together must hold at least 50% of the total voting rights in the company, based on the total shares issued at that time.
- Active business operations in Canada: Upon obtaining permanent residence, the applicant must actively and continuously manage the business from within Canada, ensuring that essential business operations take place in Canada, and that the business is incorporated in Canada.
Obtain a letter of support from a designated organization
It is necessary to obtain a letter of support from a designated investment organization approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These organizations include venture capital funds, angel investor groups, and business incubators that are authorized to invest in and support startups.
- Contact a designated organization and explore support options: Reach out to one of the designated organizations and research how they can provide support for your business.
- Convince the designated organization of the value of your business idea: Present your business idea in a compelling way to persuade the designated organization that your venture is worth supporting.
- Obtain a letter of support from the designated organization: Secure a letter of support from the organization, which confirms their endorsement of your business idea and investment commitment.
Language proficiency requirements
Applicants must have achieved a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 or higher in an approved English or French language test taken within two years prior to the application.
| Test | Language | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLB5 | IELTS | English | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| CELPIP | English | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | |
| PTE Core | English | 42-50 | 51-59 | 39-49 | 51-58 | |
| TEF Tests taken on or after December 11, 2023 |
French | 352-392 | 330-378 | 352-392 | 387-421 | |
| TEF Tests taken between October 1, 2019 and December 10, 2023 |
French | 350-399 | 350-399 | 350-399 | 350-399 | |
| TCF | French | 375-405 | 6.0 | 369-397 | 6.0 |
Proof of funds
Applicants must have sufficient funds to support themselves and their family while in Canada, in accordance with the required financial thresholds.
| Number of family members | Required funds (in Canadian dollars) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $13,757 |
| 2 | $17,127 |
| 3 | $21,055 |
| 4 | $25,564 |
| 5 | $28,994 |
| 6 | $32,700 |
| 7 | $36,407 |
| More than 7 | $3,706 for each additional family member |
Application process for the Start-up Visa Program
01Create a business plan
When starting a business in Canada, the business plan must include market analysis, details of products and services, operational plans, financial plans, and so on. This plan requires a detailed analysis of the target market and consumer demand, taking into account Canada’s economic needs and trends. Additionally, it must propose financial sustainability, risk management, and effective marketing strategies. A plan that takes these elements into account is essential for the success of the business and is important for adapting to the Canadian market environment.
02Receive a letter of support from a designated organization
To capture the attention of the organization, it is important to emphasize how your business is sustainable and provides both social and economic value. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that your proposal aligns with the specific criteria and areas of interest of the organization, tailoring your approach accordingly. Finally, pay close attention to the quality of your presentation or proposal, ensuring that it is professional, compelling, and persuasive.
03Meet the application requirements for the Start-up Visa Program
In order to apply for permanent residence, you must meet all of the above application requirements.
04Submit your permanent residence application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Create an account on the online permanent residence application portal and submit the required documents to IRCC. If you are between the ages of 14 and 79, you will be required to submit biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
05Review by IRCC
Once IRCC has completed the review of your application, you will receive a letter called the Confirmation of Permanent Resident (CoPR).
06Landing
Applicants from outside Canada will enter Canada with their Confirmation of Permanent Resident (CoPR). Applicants from within Canada can complete the landing process online.
07Receive your Permanent Resident (PR) card
Your PR card will be delivered to the designated address within Canada within a few months.
Related Columns
Related News
Looking to obtain permanent residence or a visa?
Consult with us now!
Applying for permanent residence or a visa to Canada on your own can be overwhelming due to the large number of required documents, and you may feel uncertain about whether everything is correct. However, if you're serious about immigrating to Canada, we strongly recommend seeking the support of an immigration consultant. There are many pathways to obtaining permanent residence, depending on factors such as your age, occupation, and family status. With the help of an expert, you can ensure that you plan the right approach tailored to your specific situation.
A professional immigration consultant will help solve your concerns
Get a free Counseling now
From immigration planning to application submission,
everything is completed with Visa JP Canada
Consulting with an immigration consultant makes the process clearer and much smoother. You’ll feel more confident with document submissions and procedures, significantly reducing the risk of mistakes. Take the first step toward your Canadian dream with the guidance of an expert.
