Start-up Visa vs Self-Employed: which Canadian visa is right for you?
Two business immigration routes to PR: the Start-up Visa for venture-backed founders, and the Self-Employed Persons Program for cultural and athletic self-employment.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Start-up Visa Program (Start-up Visa) | Self-Employed Persons Program (Self-Employed) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Permanent / PR | Permanent / PR |
| Who it's for | Entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea backed by a designated Canadian investor or incubator. | People with relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics who can be self-employed in Canada. |
| Government cost | ~CA$2,385 (CA$1,810 processing + CA$575 RPRF) | ~CA$2,470 (CA$1,895 processing + CA$575 RPRF) |
| Processing time | ~30-40 months (intake currently paused) | Paused until further notice |
| Length of stay | Permanent | Permanent |
| Where to apply | Apply to IRCC (online) with a letter of support | Was applied to IRCC by paper |
| Work rights | Run and work in your own start-up; work permit available while waiting | Self-employment in cultural or athletic fields |
| Points-tested | No | Yes |
| Pathway to PR | Successful applicants and their team receive permanent residence directly. | Granted permanent residence to qualifying self-employed artists and athletes; intake is paused. |
Which is right for you?
Start-up Visa Program (Start-up Visa)
Entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea backed by a designated Canadian investor or incubator.
Full Start-up Visa guide →Self-Employed Persons Program (Self-Employed)
People with relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics who can be self-employed in Canada.
Full Self-Employed guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Start-up Visa or Self-Employed?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Start-up Visa Program (Start-up Visa) is the lowest at ~CA$2,385 (CA$1,810 processing + CA$575 RPRF). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, Start-up Visa or Self-Employed?
Indicatively Start-up Visa Program (Start-up Visa) is the quickest at ~30-40 months (intake currently paused). Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
Do all of these lead to permanent residence?
Yes. Start-up Visa: Successful applicants and their team receive permanent residence directly. Self-Employed: Granted permanent residence to qualifying self-employed artists and athletes; intake is paused.
What's the main difference between Start-up Visa and Self-Employed?
Start-up Visa Program (Start-up Visa) is for entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea backed by a designated Canadian investor or incubator. Self-Employed Persons Program (Self-Employed) is for people with relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics who can be self-employed in Canada.