🇨🇦 Canada · Start-up visa
Start-up visa to Canada
The Start-up Visa Program is a federal Canadian program for entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea: permanent resident status from day one.
Canada is one of the largest and most economically developed countries in the world, with a high standard of living, stable politics and a favorable business climate. The Start-up Visa Program is a federal program for entrepreneurs with an innovative idea: participants receive permanent resident status straight away.
Legal basis
The program is designed to attract foreign entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas that can create jobs for Canadians and compete at a global level.
Key conditions
- Support from a designated organization. A letter of support from a venture capital fund (investment from $200,000), an angel investor group (from $75,000) or a business incubator.
- Business ownership. The applicant must hold at least 10% of the company's shares, and the applicants together with the designated organization - more than 50%.
- Language. English or French at CLB 5.
- Financial capacity. Proof of sufficient funds to live in Canada.
Changes from 3 October 2024
The program strengthened its support for entrepreneurs: applicants identified as essential by the designated organization can receive a three-year open work permit (OWP), which lets them work for other employers while building the startup. Family members can also apply for an OWP if they meet the conditions, and dependants can apply for a study permit.
We will help you find a designated organization and put the document package together during a free consultation.
Benefits of a start-up visa to Canada
Permanent residence and a route to citizenship
Permanent resident status straight away, with the option of citizenship after three years of living in the country.
A favorable business climate
Tax breaks, grants and loans for entrepreneurs, plus access to the North American market.
A joint application
Up to five entrepreneurs can apply together for one startup project.
Permanent residence for the whole family
A spouse and children under 22 receive permanent resident status together with the main applicant.
How to get a start-up visa to Canada: step by step
Developing the business idea
An innovative idea that can compete at a global level and create jobs in Canada.
Support from a designated organization
Making contact with an approved venture capital fund, angel investor group or business incubator.
Preparing documents
Language test results, proof of funds and a letter of support from the designated organization.
Filing the application
The application for permanent residence in Canada is filed under the start-up visa program.
Getting permanent residence
Once approved - permanent resident status and the move to Canada to build the project.
FAQ
How long does permanent resident status last?
Can I apply together with partners?
What are the language requirements?
How many years until I can get citizenship?
What happens if the startup does not succeed?
Don’t want to figure this out alone?
We handle the whole process end to end: we check your documents, match a program to your situation and give you honest timelines and costs. Leave your details and a migration expert will get back to you. The first consultation is free.