Program Status: Currently Closed
The Start-up Visa Program is currently closed to new applications. IRCC has not announced a reopening date. If you applied before the closure, your application continues to be processed. Contact us to discuss alternative pathways to permanent residence for entrepreneurs, including provincial entrepreneur streams and the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
What the Start-up Visa Program Was
The Start-up Visa (SUV) Program was Canada's flagship entrepreneurial immigration pathway, designed for founders with scalable, innovative business ideas. Unlikeprovincial entrepreneur streams that require established businesses, the SUV accepted early-stage ventures with support from a designated organization.
What distinguished the SUV from other business immigration programs was its requirement for third-party validation: applicants needed commitment letters from a venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator designated by IRCC. This gatekeeping mechanism meant the program self-selected for commercially viable ideas, not just wealthy applicants.
Practitioner Note: The SUV was consistently oversubscribed. Processing times stretched to 30-40 months in some cases despite a nominal 12-month target. IRCC's closure reflects intake management, not program elimination — the pathway is likely to reopen with revised criteria.
Key Requirements (For Reference)
Designated Organization Support
A commitment letter from a venture capital fund (min. $200,000 investment), angel investor group (min. $75,000), or business incubator (acceptance required). Only IRCC-designated organizations qualify.
Language Requirements
Minimum CLB 5 in all four language abilities (speaking, listening, reading, writing). IELTS or CELPIP accepted.
Education
No minimum education requirement — but most designated organizations expect founders with relevant credentials or demonstrated track records.
Settlement Funds
Proof of funds to support yourself and your family upon arrival in Canada. Amount varies by family size (equivalent to FSWP thresholds).
Alternative Pathways for Entrepreneurs
With the SUV closed, entrepreneurs have several viable alternatives depending on their business stage, financial position, and province of interest.
Provincial Entrepreneur Streams (PNP)
British Columbia, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Atlantic provinces all offer entrepreneur immigration streams. Most require a minimum net worth ($300K-$1.5M), a business plan, and a work permit phase before PR nomination.
Federal Skilled Worker via Employment
Entrepreneurs who can secure TEER 0-2 employment in Canada first — even temporarily — can transition to Express Entry. Many founders use this route while establishing their Canadian business.
LMIA-Based Work Permit + CEC
Incorporating a Canadian company, hiring yourself as a senior executive via LMIA, and then applying through CEC after one year of Canadian experience is an established workaround used by business owners.
Program at a Glance
- Status:Closed
- Language:CLB 5
- VC Investment:$200K min.
- Angel Investor:$75K min.
- ECA Required:No
Explore Alternatives
With the SUV closed, book a consultation to identify which entrepreneur pathway fits your business stage and financial profile.
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