Start-up Visa
Start-Up Visa Program
Canada welcomes visionary entrepreneurs from around the world who are eager to establish innovative businesses that can stimulate economic growth and generate employment for Canadian residents. If you possess a unique business concept with global potential, you may qualify for immigration through Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program.
Program Overview
The Start-Up Visa Program offers permanent residency to foreign entrepreneurs who demonstrate the ability to build businesses that are innovative, globally competitive, and capable of creating jobs for Canadians.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Start-Up Visa Program, applicants must satisfy the following four core criteria:
1. Ownership in an Eligible Business:
- You must own at least 10% of the voting rights associated with the shares of the business
- Together with a designated organization, you must jointly control more than 50% of the voting rights in the company.
2. Endorsement from a Designated Organization:
- You must obtain a Letter of Support from a Canadian venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- This requires presenting your business proposal and securing a commitment from the organization.
3. Language Proficiency:
- You must achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 in English or French, assessed through an approved language testing agency.
4. Proof of Financial Stability:
- You must provide evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself and your family members upon arrival in Canada.
Designated Organization Criteria
Your business must be backed by one of the following IRCC-approved entities:
- Venture Capital Fund: Requires a minimum investment of CAD 200,000
- Angel Investor Group: Requires a minimum investment of CAD 75,000
- Business Incubator: No financial investment required; however, you must be accepted into an eligible program
Each organization must be recognized and authorized by the Government of Canada.
Application Process
1. Complete the Application Form:
- Fill in the Generic Application Form for Canada, ensuring all sections are accurately completed. Include the barcode page, print, sign, and date the form.
2. Collect Required Documentation:
- Include your Letter of Support, proof of language results, evidence of settlement funds, and other relevant documentation.
3. Pay Applicable Fees:
- This includes the application fee, right of permanent residence fee, and additional third-party costs such as medical examinations, background checks, language tests, and biometrics.
4. Submit Your Application:
- Package all documents securely in a sealed envelope and submit them as directed by IRCC guidelines.
Processing Timeline
- 4 to 6 months: Time required to obtain a Letter of Support/Commitment Certificate from a designated organization
- Up to 18 months: Estimated duration for the permanent residence application to be processed and finalized by IRCC
Reach out to us today to explore how we can help turn your business vision into reality in Canada.