Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program
The Canada Start-Up Visa Program is a federal immigrant investor program created to attract foreign entrepreneurs to Canada and improve the country’s economy. Applicants and their families get permanent residency and bring in new businesses that contribute to the innovation of the Canadian economy and the creation of employment.
Advantages of Start-Up Visa Program
- Fast-track to permanent residency in Canada.
- Apply from any country with a strong business idea.
- No restrictions on the type of business.
- No minimum net worth is required.
- Partner with up to four others, each with at least 10% ownership.
- Start working while your residency is processed.
Requirements for the Canada Start-Up Visa Program
- Must be 18 years or older
- Own a qualifying business
- Obtain a letter of support from a designated organisation
- Have sufficient funds to invest and settle in Canada
- Provide documentation proving the legal source of investment capital
- Pass a language test in English or French at CLB 5 level
- Have no criminal record
Investment Options
Options |
Details |
Business Incubation |
- No minimum investment is required.
- Must confirm that the start-up is part of a designated Canadian incubator program.
|
Angel Investment |
- Raise CA$75,000 from a Canadian government-approved angel investor.
- Must pass an interview and obtain a letter of support.
|
Venture Capital Fund |
- Raise CA$200,000 from a venture capital fund.
- Must confirm that the start-up is at a particular stage of the business.
|
**Additional costs for government fees, business setup, document processing, immigration filing, and DSquare Global consulting fees will be applied.
Qualifying Businesses for Canada Start-Up Visa Program
Criteria |
Details |
Ownership at Commitment |
Each applicant must hold at least 10% of voting rights. Up to five applicants can apply as owners. |
Combined Voting Rights |
Applicants and designated organisations must hold over 50% of voting rights combined. |
Active Management |
Must actively manage the business from within Canada. |
Operations in Canada |
Essential business operations must take place in Canada. |
Incorporation |
The business must be incorporated in Canada. |
Minimum Shares |
The investor must have at least 10% shares in a federally approved company. |
Number of Investors |
Up to five investors can apply as owners, with one designated as the head based on qualifications. |
Application Process
Steps |
Details |
Step 1 |
Create an account, download, and fill out forms from the Government of Canada Permanent Residence Portal for you and your children. |
Step 2 |
Prepare all supporting documents. |
Step 3 |
Pay the relevant fees, including biometrics, and submit your application through the online portal. |
Step 4 |
Book your biometrics appointment and undergo a medical examination within 30 days of submission. |
Step 5 |
Await the Government’s decision on your application. |
Step 6 |
If approved, receive a permanent residence visa to enter Canada. |
**The processing time is estimated to be about 37 months.