The Start-Up Visa Program was a Canadian immigration pathway designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs from around the world who wanted to launch and grow businesses in Canada.
Through this program, immigrant entrepreneurs could obtain Canadian permanent residence while building innovative companies that create jobs and contribute to Canada’s economic development.
The program connected foreign entrepreneurs with designated Canadian investors and business incubators that provide funding, mentorship, and support for startup ventures.
At LB Pathway, together with LandBird Law Firm, we help entrepreneurs understand Canada’s business immigration pathways and prepare strong applications for permanent residence.
What is the Start-Up Visa Program?
Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program was created to attract entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas that could compete globally and generate employment opportunities for Canadians.
Successful applicants could receive permanent residence while developing their startup business in Canada with the support of approved investors or incubators.
Up to five founders could apply for permanent residence together as part of the same startup venture.
Key Eligibility Requirements
Applicants needed to meet several core requirements to qualify for the Start-Up Visa Program.
- A qualifying innovative business
- A letter of support from a designated organization
- Minimum language proficiency in English or French
- Sufficient settlement funds to live in Canada
Candidates also had to meet Canada’s general admissibility requirements for immigration.
Qualifying Business Requirements
To qualify under the Start-Up Visa Program, the applicant’s business needed to meet ownership and control requirements.
- Each applicant must hold at least 10% of voting rights
- The applicants and the designated organization together must control more than 50% of the company
- The business must be actively managed from within Canada
After approval, the business must be incorporated in Canada and a significant portion of operations must take place in the country.
Investment Requirements
Applicants needed support from a designated Canadian organization such as a venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator.
Typical support requirements included:
- At least CAD $200,000 investment from a designated venture capital fund
- At least CAD $75,000 investment from a designated angel investor group
- Acceptance into a recognized Canadian business incubator program
These organizations evaluate startup ideas and provide funding, mentorship, and business development support.
Language and Financial Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate language ability in English or French with a minimum level of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5.
They must also show proof of settlement funds to support themselves and their family members when arriving in Canada.
Application Process
The general process for applying under the Start-Up Visa Program included the following steps:
- Develop an innovative startup business idea
- Secure investment or support from a designated organization
- Receive a letter of support and commitment certificate
- Submit a permanent residence application to IRCC
- Launch and manage the startup business in Canada
Applicants could also apply for a temporary work permit to begin building their startup while their permanent residence application was being processed.
Benefits of the Start-Up Visa Program
- Direct pathway to Canadian permanent residence
- Opportunity to launch innovative businesses in Canada
- Access to Canadian investors and incubators
- Ability for family members to accompany the applicant
- Potential pathway to Canadian citizenship
Even if the startup business does not succeed, approved applicants can still retain their permanent residence status in Canada.
Program Status
Canada paused the Start-Up Visa Program for new applications beginning January 1, 2026 while reviewing entrepreneur immigration policies and addressing processing backlogs.
Applicants with valid commitment certificates issued before the deadline may still submit their permanent residence applications within the allowed timeframe.
How LB Pathway & LandBird Law Firm Can Help
Entrepreneur immigration programs require strong business plans, investment support, and detailed documentation.
Our experienced immigration team helps entrepreneurs prepare successful business immigration applications.
- Entrepreneur immigration eligibility assessments
- Startup business planning and documentation guidance
- Investor and incubator application support
- Permanent residence application preparation
- Legal immigration services through LandBird Law Firm
Start Your Business Immigration Journey
Canada offers multiple pathways for entrepreneurs who wish to launch innovative businesses and build their future in the country.
Contact LB Pathway today to explore Canada’s business immigration programs and begin your journey toward permanent residence.