Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program is designed for innovative entrepreneurs who want to establish high-growth businesses in Canada while obtaining permanent residence. The program aims to attract talented founders from around the world who can build globally competitive companies, create jobs for Canadians, and contribute to economic growth.
At LB Pathway, in collaboration with LandBird Law Firm, we assist entrepreneurs in navigating Canada’s Start-Up Visa process, helping them develop strong business proposals and connect with designated organizations that support innovative startups.
What is the Canada Start-Up Visa Program?
The Start-Up Visa Program is a federal immigration pathway that allows foreign entrepreneurs to obtain Canadian permanent residence by launching innovative businesses supported by Canadian investors or business incubators.
This program focuses on startups that have the potential to grow internationally and create employment opportunities in Canada. Entrepreneurs can apply individually or as a group of founders working on the same startup project.
Key Benefits of the Start-Up Visa Program
- Direct pathway to Canadian permanent residence
- Ability to apply with up to five co-founders
- Access to Canada's startup ecosystem and investors
- Opportunity to live and work anywhere in Canada (outside Quebec)
- Potential pathway to Canadian citizenship
Successful applicants may also apply for a temporary work permit to move to Canada while their permanent residence application is being processed.
Eligibility Requirements for the Start-Up Visa
To qualify for the Start-Up Visa Program, applicants must meet several key criteria set by Canadian immigration authorities.
- Have a qualifying innovative business
- Secure a Letter of Support from a designated organization
- Meet language requirements (minimum CLB 5)
- Have sufficient settlement funds
- Pass medical and security checks
Applicants must also hold at least 10% of voting rights in the startup business, and together with the designated organization, control more than 50% of the company’s voting rights.
Designated Organizations
To apply for the Start-Up Visa Program, entrepreneurs must receive support from a designated Canadian organization. These organizations evaluate startup ideas and provide funding or incubation support.
- Venture Capital Funds
- Angel Investor Groups
- Business Incubators
For example, venture capital funds may invest at least CAD $200,000, while angel investor groups may provide investments starting from CAD $75,000 in promising startups.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply
- Develop an innovative business concept
- Create a business plan and startup proposal
- Secure support from a designated organization
- Receive a Letter of Support
- Submit a permanent residence application
- Apply for a work permit if needed
- Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
How LB Pathway & LandBird Law Firm Can Help
At LB Pathway, we assist entrepreneurs through every stage of the Start-Up Visa process. Working with LandBird Law Firm, we provide professional guidance aligned with Canadian immigration requirements.
- Startup idea evaluation
- Business plan preparation
- Investor and incubator connections
- Application preparation and submission
- End-to-end immigration support
Start Your Canadian Startup Journey
If you are an entrepreneur with an innovative business idea, Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program may provide the opportunity to launch your company while securing permanent residency for you and your family.
Consult LB Pathway today for a personalized assessment and start building your business future in Canada.