Start-up Program
Canada’s Start-up Visa Program targets immigrant entrepreneurs with the skills and potential to build businesses in Canada that :
– are innovative
– can create jobs for Canadians
– can compete on a global scale
Do you have an innovative business idea? If we get support for your idea from one of the designated organizations, you may be able to immigrate to Canada.
To apply for the Start-up Visa Program, your business idea or venture must get the support of one or more of the designated organizations listed below :
– Venture Capitals
– Angel Investors
– Incubators
Who can apply?
To be eligible for the Start-up Visa Program, you must :
A qualifying business means you created a business that meets the following conditions.
– At the time you get a commitment from a designated organization:
- each applicant holds 10% or more of the voting rights attached to all shares of the corporation outstanding at that time (up to 5 people can apply as owners)AND
- applicants and the designated organization jointly hold more than 50% of the total voting rights attached to all shares of the corporation outstanding at that time
– At the time you receive your permanent residence:
- you provide active and ongoing management of this business from within Canada
- an essential part of the operations of the business happens in Canada
- this business is incorporated in Canada
You must get a letter of support from a designated organization (a business group that has been approved to invest in or support possible start-ups).
You must meet the minimum level of the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 in either English or French in all of these four areas :
- speaking
- reading
- listening
- writing
The Government of Canada does not give financial support to new start-up visa immigrants.
When you apply, you’ll need to give proof that you have the money to support yourself and your dependants after you arrive in Canada. You can’t borrow this money from another person.
The amount you need depends on the size of your family. These amounts are updated every year.
| Number of family members | Funds required (in Canadian dollars) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $13,213 |
| 2 | $16,449 |
| 3 | $20,222 |
| 4 | $24,553 |
| 5 | $27,847 |
| 6 | $31,407 |
| 7 | $34,967 |
| For each additional family member | $3,560 |
If you wish to apply through this program, please fill out our evaluation form. We will contact you shortly.
How can we help you?
Everyone deserves support and representation…
We have the skills and understanding to help you reach your goals, whether you are a student, a skilled worker trying to navigate Express Entry, a Canadian sponsor of a family member, or a temporary resident seeking a Work Permit.
We have the passion, knowledge, and experience to provide solid advice and practical solutions. We are here to help you every step of the way and promise to maintain open lines of communication so that you can make informed decisions.
Please fill out the evaluation form. We will contact you in 3 business days.