Canada’s Federal Start-Up Visa Program offers permanent residence to immigrant entrepreneurs who can build innovative businesses in Canada that are globally competitive and can create jobs for Canadians. It is ideal for high-impact founders with scalable ideas.

The Canada Federal Start-Up Visa Program provides a valuable pathway for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas to gain permanent residency in Canada. 

Entrepreneurs focusing on technology and high-growth industries supported by designated organizations, tend to have priority in processing. Planning a strong, scalable business plan and securing the right backing are crucial to navigating this competitive but rewarding program.

KEY FEATURES OF THE CANADA START-UP PROGRAM

Permanent Residency: Successful applicants receive Canadian permanent resident status.

Business Support: Requires backing from a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator).

Open Work Permit: Eligible entrepreneurs can obtain a temporary open work permit while the permanent resident application is processed.

PROCESSING TIME

Typical Duration: The processing for the Start-up Visa application takes approximately 37 to 43 months (about 3 to 3.5 years) on average, with some sources taking up to 51 months due to backlogs and demand. Increasing global demand and new intake limits introduced in 2024 have contributed to longer wait times.

Faster Routes: Some business incubators, especially those in the Canadian Tech Network, offer expedited processing options that may reduce timeline to as low as 24 months.

Open Work Permit Processing: Entrepreneurs who have received a Letter of Support may apply for an open work permit, which can be processed in about 5 to 12 weeks depending on occupation priority, allowing them to work in Canada while waiting for permanent residency.

ELIGIBILITY AND REQUIREMENTS

Language Proficiency

• Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English or French – IELTS, CELPIP (English), and TEF (French).
• Minimum requirements are Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

PROGRAM BENEFITS:

• Visa free travel to approximately 184 Countries (For citizens)
• World-class health & education
• Direct pathway to Canadian Permanent Residency
• Ability to bring family members under the same application
• Canadian citizenship after five years
• Support from Canadian business networks and accelerators
• Opportunity to live and grow a business in one of the world’s most stable economies
• No minimum investment requirement by the applicant
• Access to North American and global markets from Canada