Business & investor
Canadian Start-up Visa Program
A permanent residence route for entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea backed by a designated Canadian investor or incubator organisation.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Canada government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Start-up Visa Program
- Route type
- Business immigration - permanent residence
- Key requirement
- A letter of support from a designated organisation (VC fund, angel group or incubator)
- Current status
- Paused - new applications not accepted as of 30 June 2026; earlier applications still processed
Who it is for
- Entrepreneurs with an innovative, scalable business idea
- Founders (up to five per business) who can gain the backing of a designated Canadian organisation
Requirements
- A qualifying business that meets the ownership and control rules
- A letter of support from a designated organisation
- Meet the minimum language requirement (English or French)
- Show sufficient, non-borrowed settlement funds for yourself and your dependants
What you can do
- Apply for permanent residence to build and run the business in Canada
- Apply for an optional open work permit to start working on the business while the PR application is processed (for eligible applicants)
How to apply
- Secure a designated organisation's support and obtain a commitment certificate and letter of support
- Submit the permanent residence application with proof of funds and language results (subject to the current intake pause)
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.