The Canada Startup Visa Program is designed for innovative entrepreneurs who want to start and grow their businesses in Canada. This program grants permanent residency (PR) to qualified applicants who can secure funding or support from designated organizations.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Canada Startup Visa, you must:
- Have a Qualifying Business
- You must own at least 10% of voting shares in the company.
- A maximum of 5 founders can apply under the same business.
- The business must be incorporated in Canada before PR is granted.
- Secure a Letter of Support
- You must get backing from at least one of the following designated organizations:
- Venture Capital Funds (Invest at least CAD 200,000)
- Angel Investor Groups (Invest at least CAD 75,000)
- Business Incubators (Accept your business into their program)
- You must get backing from at least one of the following designated organizations:
- Meet Language Requirements
- Minimum CLB 5 in English or French (IELTS or TEF) in:
- Reading
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
- Minimum CLB 5 in English or French (IELTS or TEF) in:
- Show Proof of Settlement Funds
- You must have enough funds to settle in Canada. Example:
- 1 person: CAD 13,757
- 2 people: CAD 17,127
- 3 people: CAD 21,055
- You must have enough funds to settle in Canada. Example:
- Pass Security & Medical Checks
- No criminal record
- Must meet Canadian health standards
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Develop a Business Idea
Ensure your business is innovative, scalable, and can compete globally.
Step 2: Get Support from a Designated Organization
Pitch your idea to venture capitalists, angel investors, or incubators.
Secure a Letter of Support once accepted.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
- Letter of Support from a designated organization
- Proof of business ownership
- Language test results (IELTS or TEF)
- Proof of settlement funds
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical exam results
Step 4: Submit the Application
Apply online via the IRCC website or send a paper application.
Pay the application fee (CAD 2,140 for a single applicant).
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Processing time: 12–16 months
You may apply for a temporary work permit to enter Canada earlier.
Step 6: Get Permanent Residency (PR)
Once approved, you and your family receive permanent residency.
After 3 years of residency, you may apply for Canadian citizenship.
Benefits of the Canada Startup Visa
- Direct PR for you & family (no need for LMIA or job offers)
- Access to funding & mentorship
- No minimum personal investment required
- Business can be anywhere in Canada (except Quebec)
By following these steps, you can successfully apply for a Canada Startup Visa and start your business in one of the world’s top economies.