Start-up Visa Program
Embassy required
- Processing time
- 12-36 months
- Fee
- CAD $2,385 (business immigration processing) + $575 (RPRF) = CAD $2,960
- Validity
- Permanent residence
- Entry
- Single entry
Permanent residence for innovative entrepreneurs with a qualifying business supported by a designated organization. As of January 1, 2026, the program is paused and no longer accepting new applications. Applicants with a valid 2025 commitment certificate must apply by June 30, 2026. Up to 5 applicants can be included per qualifying business. Applicants and designated organization must collectively hold more than 50% of voting rights.
Eligibility
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Financial
Must have letter of support from a designated organization: venture capital fund (minimum $200,000 investment), angel investor group (minimum $75,000), or business incubator (no minimum). Must have sufficient settlement funds.
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Employment
Must have a qualifying business that is innovative, can create jobs for Canadians, and can compete globally. Applicants must hold more than 50% of voting rights collectively with the designated organization.
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Criminal record
Must be admissible to Canada.
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Health
Must pass immigration medical examination.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, investment certificates; Minimum amount: Varies by family size per IRCC settlement funds table
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Police clearance
Countries required: All countries where applicant lived 6+ months since age 18; Validity months: 12
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Business plan
Provide a business plan showing the activity, funding, market and expected costs.
Minimum investment: No minimum personal investment, but must have commitment from designated organization; Must include financials: Yes
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Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
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Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS General Training, CELPIP General (English); TEF Canada, TCF Canada (French); Minimum score: CLB 5 in all four abilities
How to apply
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Document gathering
Obtain letter of support and commitment certificate from designated organization. Prepare business plan, take language tests, and gather proof of settlement funds.
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Online application
Submit permanent residence application online with commitment certificate, language test results, and all supporting documents.
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Fee payment
Pay CAD $2,385 business immigration processing fee plus CAD $575 RPRF per adult. Spouse: $1,525 + $575. Dependent children: $260 each.
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Biometrics
Provide biometrics at designated collection point.
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Processing wait
Processing times are lengthy, typically 12-36 months. IRCC has implemented measures to reduce backlogs.