Immigration Program for Startup Founders
If you have an innovative business idea and have secured support from a Canadian investor, you can immigrate to Canada through the Start-Up Visa program.
The Start-Up Visa program offers permanent residence in Canada to immigrant entrepreneurs. It focuses on individuals with experience in creating innovative and competitive businesses that can provide jobs for Canadians.
This program is available in all Canadian provinces and territories, except Quebec, which has its own immigration system. Therefore, those intending to live in Quebec are not eligible to apply for the Start-Up Visa.
Candidate Requirements
You can apply individually or as part of a group of up to 5 business owners. To apply for the Start-Up Visa program, you must meet the following conditions:
- have a qualifying business and obtain support from a designated Canadian investor (see below);
- have English or French language skills at a minimum of level 5 on the CLB scale;
- have sufficient funds to live in Canada (see below).
Business Requirements
The business intended for operation in Canada must:
- be innovative;
- create jobs for Canadians;
- be competitive on a global scale.
As part of the Start-Up Visa program, the applicant must obtain a letter of support from one of the designated organizations that invest in or support startups. This can be an angel investor group, venture capital fund, or business incubator. Applicants need to contact the organization to learn how to get support and convince them that the business idea is worth backing. Each organization has its own requirements. The candidate may be asked to present a detailed business plan or pitch their business concept in person.
Until December 31, 2026, the number of applications from each designated organization is limited to 10 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, and once the annual limit is reached, they are returned with a processing fee refund.
At the time the applicant receives a letter of support from the organization, they must own at least 10% of the voting rights attached to all shares of the corporation. Additionally, the applicant and the designated organization together must hold more than 50% of the total voting rights.
After obtaining permanent resident status, the applicant must incorporate the business in Canada and actively manage it from Canada.
Proof of Funds
Amounts are in Canadian dollars (CAD) with approximate US dollar (USD) equivalents:
| Number of Family Members | Required Amount |
| 1 | $14,690 CAD (~ $10,890 USD) |
| 2 | $18,288 CAD (~ $13,560 USD) |
| 3 | $22,483 CAD (~ $16,660 USD) |
| 4 | $27,297 CAD (~ $20,230 USD) |
| 5 | $30,690 CAD (~ $22,750 USD) |
| 6 | $34,917 CAD (~ $25,880 USD) |
| 7 | $38,875 CAD (~ $28,820 USD) |
| Each additional family member | $3,958 CAD (~ $2,930 USD) |
How to Apply
Since October 2022, all applications for the Start-Up Visa program must be submitted online. Candidates need to gather the documents listed on the official Canadian government website.
To apply, you need to:
- create an account on the online portal;
- fill out all necessary forms;
- provide biometric data;
- pay all fees (including the biometrics fee).
It's crucial to provide truthful and complete information, as false statements can lead to application rejection and a five-year ban on reapplying.
While your permanent residence application is being processed, you can apply for a temporary work permit to start your business in Canada.
Our Services
company has successful cases of obtaining support letters from incubators. Book a consultation with an immigration consultant to assess your chances of obtaining permanent residence through the Start-Up Visa.
