Start Up Visa Program

Immigration

The Startup Visa Program in Canada stands as a beacon of opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs from around the world. Launched in 2013, this visionary immigration initiative was designed to attract innovative minds and foster economic growth in the country. Under this program, entrepreneurs with a promising startup idea can secure Canadian residency, along with the invaluable support of a network of experienced business incubators, accelerators, and venture capital firms.


By opening its doors to these enterprising individuals, Canada not only gains access to fresh ideas and diverse skillsets but also strengthens its position as a global hub for innovation and technology. The Startup Visa Program not only exemplifies Canada's commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship but also offers a pathway for dynamic individuals to turn their visionary concepts into reality on Canadian soil.

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Start Up Visa Program

The Startup Visa Program in Canada offers immigrant entrepreneurs the opportunity to attain permanent residency while establishing and expanding their businesses within the country. One of the program's key advantages is its provision for up to five foreign nationals and their families to immigrate under the same business venture. T


he initiative is designed to attract entrepreneurs with the requisite skills and potential to not only establish thriving businesses in Canada but also contribute significantly to the local economy. These ventures are expected to be informative, generate employment opportunities for Canadians, compete effectively on a global scale, and drive overall economic growth.


To qualify for the Startup Visa Program, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria:


  • Demonstrate proficiency in either English or French, meeting a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark of 5 in all abilities.
  • Have sufficient financial resources to establish themselves in Canada.
  • Possess a qualifying business that satisfies ownership criteria.
  • Obtain a letter of support from a designated organization in the form of a commitment certificate, which must be directly submitted to IRCC by the organization.
  • Intend to settle in a province other than Quebec.
  • Successfully clear Canadian security and medical assessments.


Upon submission, applications are thoroughly processed and evaluated to ensure all requirements are met. If approved, applicants receive a permanent resident visa, which includes a Confirmation of Permanent Residence and an entry visa.


Designated Organizations


The IRCC has officially designated several organizations eligible to take part in the Startup Visa Program. The government website publishes a comprehensive list of these entities.


Eligible participants encompass:


  • Venture capital funds (requiring a minimum investment of $200,000 Canadian);
  • Angel investor groups (with investments totaling at least 75,000 Canadian dollars), and;
  • Business incubators (where no specific investment is required, but applicants must gain acceptance into an incubator program).


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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions. 

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program

  • Who is eligible to apply for the Startup Visa Program?

    Eligible applicants are entrepreneurs who have a qualifying business idea and have received a Letter of Support from a designated organization in Canada.

  • What is a designated organization?

    Designated organizations are business groups in Canada that have been approved by IRCC to support and invest in qualifying startups.

  • What are the minimum investment requirements for venture capital funds and angel investor groups?

    Venture capital funds must invest at least $200,000 Canadian, while angel investor groups must invest a minimum of $75,000 Canadian.

  • Is there a required investment for business incubators?

    No, there is no specific investment amount required for business incubators. However, applicants must be accepted into an incubator program.

  • Can more than one entrepreneur apply for permanent residence under the same business venture?

    Yes, the program allows for up to five foreign nationals and their families to apply for permanent residence under the same business venture.

  • What are the language requirements for the Startup Visa Program?

    Applicants must meet a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 5 in all language abilities (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) in either English or French.

  • Can applicants choose to settle in the province of Quebec?

    No, applicants must plan to settle in a province or territory other than Quebec, as Quebec has its own separate immigration programs.

  • What are the security and medical clearances required for the program?

    Applicants must pass Canadian security and medical assessments as part of the eligibility criteria.

  • How long does the application process typically take?

    The processing time for applications can vary, but it usually takes several months for the application to be assessed and a decision to be made.

  • What happens if the startup business fails after receiving permanent residence?

    The Startup Visa Program is designed to support entrepreneurs, and the failure of the business after receiving permanent residence does not impact their immigration status.


    Remember that immigration policies and program details may change over time, so it's essential to refer to official government sources or consult with immigration professionals for the most up-to-date information.