(SUV) – Federal
Start-Up Visa Program
Learn about Canada’s Start‑Up Visa Program with Shreehari support for innovative entrepreneurs to establish businesses in Canada, backed by designated organizations.
Immigrate to Canada as an Entrepreneur
Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program (SUV) is designed for immigrant entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas that can create jobs for Canadians and compete on a global scale. Through this program, eligible entrepreneurs and their families can obtain permanent residency and establish their businesses in Canada with the support of designated organizations.
Why Choose
Why Choose the Start-Up Visa Program?
Direct pathway to PR
Permanent residency for you and your family while you build your business in Canada
Global opportunity
Establish and grow your business in one of the world’s most competitive markets.
Flexibility
Up to 5 entrepreneurs can apply together for the same start-up project.
Designated support
Secure backing from a Canadian investor, angel investor group, or business incubator.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
Business Support
- Obtain a Letter of Support from a designated Canadian organization: Venture Capital Fund → minimum investment of $200,000 CAD / Angel Investor Group → minimum investment of $75,000 CAD / Business Incubator → acceptance into their program (no set investment required)
Settlement Funds
- Show proof that you can financially support yourself and your dependents upon arrival in Canada.
Language Proficiency
- Minimum CLB 5 in English or French (speaking, listening, reading, writing).
- Accepted tests: IELTS (General Training), CELPIP (General Test), TEF Canada, TCF Canada.
Qualifying Business
- The business must be incorporated in Canada and meet ownership and control requirements.
Admissibility
- Applicants must not be inadmissible to Canada for medical, security, or criminal reasons.
Application Process
- Check Eligibility: Confirm you meet business, language, and financial requirements.
- Secure Support: Pitch your idea and obtain a Letter of Support from a designated organization.
- Prepare Application Package: Complete the forms, attach documents, and pay required fees.
- Submit Application: Send your application package to IRCC as instructed.
- Provide Biometrics & Exams: Submit biometrics, medical exams, and police certificates when requested.
- Work in Canada (Optional): While waiting for PR, apply for a temporary work permit if your business will provide significant benefit to Canada.
- Obtain Permanent Residency: Once approved, you and your family can settle and grow your business in Canada.
- Processing time: Approximately 12–16 months.
Required Documents
- Valid passport or travel document
- Letter of Support from a designated organization
- Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF)
- Proof of settlement funds
- Completed application package (forms, signatures, supporting documents)
- Medical exams, police certificates, and biometrics (as requested by IRCC)
Program Costs
- Processing fee: $1,050 CAD
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee: $490 CAD
- Biometrics fee: $85 CAD
- Additional fees: May apply for accompanying family members.
- Legal or consulting fees: Optional, if you hire professionals to assist with your application
- Document translation and evaluation fees: May apply if supporting documents are not in English or French
Start your journey
Support
How We Support You
At Shreehari Immigration, we guide entrepreneurs through every stage of the Start-Up Visa journey:
- Eligibility assessment: Know your chances before applying.
- Investor/Incubator connection: Guidance on approaching designated organizations.
- Step-by-step support: From preparing your pitch to completing IRCC forms.
- Ongoing advice: Business immigration strategies tailored to your project.
Get professional help bringing your business to Canada.
FAQ
Got questions? We’re on it.
What are the requirements for Canada’s Start-Up Visa?
To qualify for the Start-Up Visa Program, applicants must:
- Have a qualifying business that meets ownership and incorporation requirements in Canada.
- Obtain a Letter of Support from a designated Canadian organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator).
- Meet the minimum language requirement (CLB 5 in English or French).
- Show proof of sufficient settlement funds to support yourself and your family until your business generates income in Canada.
What is the minimum investment required for the Start-Up Visa?
$200,000 CAD (venture capital) or $75,000 CAD (angel investor). No minimum for business incubators.
How many entrepreneurs can apply under one start-up?
Up to 5 entrepreneurs can apply together if they all play essential roles.
What level of English or French do I need?
Minimum CLB 5 in all four skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing).
How long does it take to get PR under the Start-Up Visa?
Processing times are usually 12–16 months.
Can I work in Canada while my application is processed?
Yes. If your business is expected to benefit Canada significantly, you may qualify for a temporary work permit.
