Start-Up Visa Program

Canada's Federal Business Immigration Program

Start-up visa(SUV) program

The Canadian Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for innovative entrepreneurs. Applicants may obtain a work permit to live and work in Canada while their permanent residency application is being processed. Initially launched as a pilot program in 2013, the SUV Program was officially adopted by the Canadian federal government in 2018 and now serves as a central pillar of Canada’s economic immigration strategy.

"A secure and expedited pathway to obtain Canadian permanent residency and establish a future in North America."

Advantages of Start-up visa(SUV) Program

Cost-Effective Entry – Significantly more affordable than traditional investment immigration programs.

Business Incubation Support – Endorsed by government-designated venture capital funds, angel investors, or business incubators.

Team-Based Application – Up to five co-founders can apply together, along with eligible family members.

Permanent Residency for Families – Spouses and dependent children under 22 are included in the application.

Expedited Work Permit – Enables early relocation to Canada while the permanent residency application is in process.

High Approval Rates – Backed by vetted business plans and rigorous due diligence from designated organizations.

Start-up visa process

The entire process typically takes about 18 ~ 40 months from application submission to receiving Canadian permanent residency.

Form a Business Team

Assemble a team of up to five co-founders.

Submit a Business Plan

Present a viable, innovative business concept tailored to the Canadian market.

Obtain a Letter of Support

Secure endorsement from a designated organization (incubator, angel investor, or venture capital fund).

Incorporate and Apply for Permanent Residency

Establish your Canadian business and submit your PR application.

Apply for a Work Permit

Begin the transition to Canada while your PR application is being processed.

Receive Permanent Residency Approval

Secure Canadian permanent residency for you and your eligible family members.

Eligibility Categories

Enterprise Applicants

  1. Eligible for start-up formation based on early-stage or conceptual business ideas.
  2. Support available for entrepreneurs with limited initial capital or no prior domestic business establishment.
  3. Business viability can be demonstrated through the founder’s professional background—such as prior entrepreneurial experience or industry-specific employment history.

Individual Applicants

  1. Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in fields such as finance, marketing, administration, planning, design, or related areas.
  2. Basic English language proficiency.
  3. Demonstrated financial capability to support initial settlement.
  4. No criminal record or inadmissibility issues.

Start-Up Visa (SUV) – Key Factors for Success

Incorporation & Legal Advisory

Comprehensive legal support is provided for business incorporation, corporate governance, and operational structure. Our legal team ensures full compliance with Canadian business law following confirmation of investment.

Support From Designated Organization

A Letter of Support must be secured from an IRCC-designated organization, which may include:

  • Business Incubators
  • Angel Investor Groups
  • Venture Capital Funds
This endorsement is a critical requirement for SUV eligibility.
Language Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate basic English proficiency, meeting or exceeding a CLB 5 level. This requirement is notably more accessible compared to other Canadian immigration programs.

Ownership Requirements

  • Up to five co-founders/shareholders may apply under one SUV application.
  • Each applicant must hold at least 10% of the company’s voting rights.
  • Collectively, the applicants and the designated organization must control a minimum of 50% of the voting rights in the corporation.

Ready to Launch Your Start-Up in Canada?

Take the first step toward securing permanent residency and achieving global business success.
Let us guide you through every stage of your journey to build a successful future in Canada. Begin today.

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