Permanent Residence - Start-Up Visa​

The Start-Up Visa Program aims to attract immigrant entrepreneurs who can build innovative businesses in Canada that create jobs and compete globally. The program targets innovative entrepreneurs who secure support from designated organizations in Canada, including business incubators, angel investor groups, and venture capital funds.

To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Qualifying Business: Each applicant must hold at least 10 percent of the voting rights attached to all shares of the corporation, and together with the designated organization, must hold more than 50 percent of the voting rights.

2. Letter of Support: Applicants need a letter of support from a designated organization, confirming their willingness to support the start-up. There is a cap on the number of Letters of Support that can be provided by incubators.

3. Language Proficiency: Applicants must meet minimum language requirements in English or French (Canadian Language Benchmark level 5).

4. Settlement Funds: Applicants must show they have enough money to settle and live in Canada before the business generates income.

Entrepreneurs must pitch their business idea to designated organizations and secure a commitment from one of them before applying for a visa. Each of these designated organizations has its own requirements, so applicants need to be well informed, prepare well, and consider the time required to meet, negotiate and secure a relationship that will work for them. Working with an incubator is very different from working with a VC or angel, and applicants need to consider their plans and time commitment. The Start-up Visa Program does not require the entrepreneur to invest their own money into the business but often entrepreneurs choose to do so to ensure the success of their business.

There are three types of designated organizations:

1. Venture Capital Funds: Must invest a minimum of CAD $200,000.

2. Angel Investor Groups: Must invest a minimum of CAD $75,000.

3. Business Incubators: Must accept the applicant into their business incubator program.

It is also very important to develop a comprehensive business plan and our team works with professionals who specialize in market research and business plan development and will work closely with the designated organization to secure a Letter of Support.

While waiting for their permanent residence application to be processed, applicants can apply for a temporary work permit to start their business in Canada if they show that their business will provide significant economic benefits to Canada.

This is a good program that can facilitate entry to Canada for innovative entrepreneurs and we are pleased to guide you throughout the process.