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Canada Start-Up Visa Program

The Start-Up Visa (SUV) is Canada's flagship entrepreneur immigration program, offering permanent residence to innovative founders who receive support from a designated Canadian organisation. It's designed for scalable, tech-driven businesses with global potential.

Processing Time12–16 months
Language Req.CLB 5
Min. EducationNone required
Max. Co-founders5 per business

How the Start-Up Visa Works

Unlike traditional investor programs that require large capital deposits, the SUV is merit-based. You must pitch your business idea to a designated Canadian organisation and receive their formal Letter of Support. The organisation's endorsement is the cornerstone of your application — it replaces the need for a minimum net worth or investment threshold.

Designated Organisation Types

Venture Capital Funds

Must commit a minimum investment of $200,000 CAD in your business. Currently, 13+ designated venture capital funds participate in the program, including BDC Capital and prominent tech-focused VCs.

Angel Investor Groups

Must commit a minimum investment of $75,000 CAD in your business. National Angel Capital Organisation (NACO) member networks and other designated angel groups participate.

Business Incubators

No minimum investment required — incubators provide mentorship, workspace, and networking. Must be designated by IRCC. Includes programs at Communitech, MaRS, Vancouver's BCIC, and universities across Canada.

Eligibility Requirements

Language

Minimum CLB 5 in all four abilities (speaking, listening, reading, writing) in English or French. Demonstrated through IELTS, CELPIP (English) or TEF/TCF (French).

Education

No minimum educational requirement — however, in practice, most designated organisations expect post-secondary credentials and demonstrated technical or business expertise.

Settlement Funds

Must demonstrate sufficient settlement funds to support yourself and your family upon arrival: $14,690 for 1 person, $18,288 for a family of 2, scaling up to $38,875 for 7 or more.

Business Ownership

Each applicant must hold at least 10% of voting shares in the business. All SUV applicants combined must hold more than 50% of voting shares. Maximum 5 co-founders per business can apply through the SUV.

Active Management

You must intend to actively manage the business from Canada. The business must be incorporated in Canada (or in the process of incorporation).

Admissibility

Must be admissible to Canada — no criminal convictions that would result in inadmissibility, no security concerns, and pass immigration medical examination.

Application Process

1
Prepare your pitch — Develop a compelling, investor-grade pitch deck and executive summary. Research which designated organisations align with your sector.
2
Approach designated organisations — Apply to incubators, angel networks, or VC funds. The process varies — some have open calls, others require warm introductions.
3
Receive Letter of Support — If the organisation commits to supporting your business, they issue a Letter of Support and commitment letter outlining the investment or support.
4
Gather immigration documents — Language test results, settlement fund proof, identity documents, police certificates, medical exam.
5
Submit to IRCC — File your permanent residence application online with IRCC, including the Letter of Support.
6
Work permit (optional) — While your PR is processed, you may apply for a temporary work permit to begin operating in Canada.
7
Decision & landing — Upon approval, you and your family receive permanent residence and can land in Canada.
Work Permit While Waiting: SUV applicants can apply for a temporary work permit while their PR application is in process. This lets you start building your Canadian business operations without waiting 12–16 months for PR.

Industries Where SUV Thrives

Is Your Business SUV-Ready?

David Johl, RCIC R519520, works with entrepreneurs to structure their SUV applications and connect with the right designated organisations. Book a free strategy session.

This page is for general information only and does not constitute immigration legal advice. Program rules change frequently — always verify details at canada.ca. For personalised guidance, consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). Mirus Immigration · David Johl · RCIC R519520.