What is Canada’s Startup Visa Program?

Canada’s Startup Visa Program is designed to attract and facilitate the entry of innovative foreign entrepreneurs who can contribute to the Canadian economy by creating jobs, innovating, and competing globally.

What are the minimum requirements to apply for the Startup Visa Program?

To apply for the Startup Visa Program, you need to meet several criteria:
Obtain a Letter of Support from a certified Canadian business incubator, angel investor group, or venture capital fund.
Demonstrate language proficiency in either English or French at the CLB/NCLC level 5.
Have proof of sufficient funds to support yourself while in Canada.
Complete biometrics.

What qualifies as a “qualified business” under the Startup Visa Program?

A “qualified business” must meet specific requirements:

Obtain commitment from a designated organization.
Each applicant must hold at least 10% of the voting rights attached to all shares of the corporation outstanding at that time.
Actively manage the business from within Canada.
Conduct essential operations in Canada.
Incorporate the business in Canada.

How many applicants can apply under the same business in the Startup Visa Program?

Up to five applicants can apply under the same business. Each applicant must hold at least 10% of the voting rights, with the joint ownership collectively exceeding 50% along with the designated organization.

No, obtaining a Letter of Support from a certified Canadian business incubator, angel investor group, or venture capital fund is a mandatory requirement for applying to the Startup Visa Program.

No, the Canadian government does not provide financial support to new startup visa immigrants. Applicants must have sufficient proof of funds to support themselves and their businesses while in Canada.

If one applicant is rejected, all other applicants associated with the same business also stand rejected. It's crucial for all applicants to meet the program's eligibility criteria.

The processing time for Startup Visa applications can vary. Once you've submitted all required documents and information, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will review your application and may request additional details if needed. It's recommended to check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date processing times.

Need Help?

Contact us to find out how we can help you with your immigration.