Start-up Visa Program
Entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea backed by a designated Canadian investor or incubator.
The Start-up Visa Program (Canada) is closed to new applicants. This guide explains who it was for, what has replaced it, and how to find an open Canadian route that fits you.
Who the Start-up Visa Program is for
Entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea backed by a designated Canadian investor or incubator.
Successful applicants and their team receive permanent residence directly.
Start-up Visa Program - eligibility criteria
- A qualifying business owned by up to 5 applicants
- A letter of support from a designated organization
- Meet language requirement (CLB 5)
- Enough settlement funds
- Be admissible to Canada
Start-up Visa Program cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Start-up Visa Program (Canada) is ~CA$2,385 (CA$1,810 processing + CA$575 RPRF), with an indicative processing time of ~30-40 months (intake currently paused). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IRCC (canada.ca).
| Type | Permanent residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Apply to IRCC (online) with a letter of support |
| Length of stay | Permanent |
| Work rights | Run and work in your own start-up; work permit available while waiting |
| Study rights | Full study rights as a permanent resident |
| Government fee | ~CA$2,385 (CA$1,810 processing + CA$575 RPRF) |
| Processing time | ~30-40 months (intake currently paused) |
| Route to PR | Successful applicants and their team receive permanent residence directly. |
Pathway & next steps
Successful applicants and their team receive permanent residence directly.
Many applicants also compare Self-Employed · Self-Employed Persons Program, IMP Work Permit · LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program), ICT · Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Canadian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Start-up Visa Program pitfalls we fix
Start-up Visa Program - frequently asked questions
Is the Start-up Visa Program still open?
No - the Start-up Visa Program (Canada) is closed to new applicants. Successful applicants and their team receive permanent residence directly.
Who can apply for the Start-up Visa Program?
Entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea backed by a designated Canadian investor or incubator.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Canada government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IRCC (canada.ca) - official Canada immigration authority