What to Know About the Canada Start-Up Visa Program
Watch this video and learn about the Start-Up Visa Program in Canada. Then, fill out our immigration assessment form and we will get back to you within 24 hours to discuss your eligibility and options.
Canada is now accepting applications from the brightest entrepreneurs from all over the world. This is a great opportunity for new immigrants to migrate to Canada, while the country benefits from bringing in new and innovative companies along with the brightest minds. The Canada Start Up Visa program is designed to fast-track permanent residence for international entrepreneurs who are able to secure funding with investors that have been designated to do so. This is to build businesses that are:
- innovative
- can create jobs for Canadians
- can compete on a global scale
Average Processing Time: 12 to 16 months
Requirements for the Canada Startup Visa Program
Applicants for this immigration stream must satisfy the following requirements. You must:
- Have a qualifying business
- Get a letter of support from a designated organization
- Demonstrate intermediate knowledge in English, French, or both languages. (Meet the CLB Benchmarks)
- Have sufficient funds settlement funds
What Is A Start Up Visa Program Designated Entity?
A designated entity is a Canadian private sector angel investor, venture capital fund, or business incubator.
The required commitment must meet the following criteria:
- A designated angel investor group must invest at least $75,000 into the qualifying business. Candidates can also qualify with two or more investments from angel investor groups totalling $75,000.
- A designated venture capital fund must confirm that it is investing at least $200,000 into the qualifying business. Candidates can also qualify with two or more commitments from designated venture capital funds totaling $200,000.
- A designated business incubator must accept the applicant into its business incubator program.
| # of Family Members | Funds Needed |
|---|---|
| 1 | $12,960 |
| 2 | $16,135 |
| 3 | $19,836 |
| 4 | $24,083 |
| 5 | $27,315 |
| 6 | $30,806 |
| 7 | $34,299 |
| Additional Family Members | $3,492 |
How to Apply
Step 1: Get application package – Applicants will receive an application package that includes an instruction guide and a required document checklist.
Step 2: Pay your application fees – The application fees include the right of permanent residence fee, biometrics (if needed) and/or third-party fees (medical exams, police certificates, language tests)
Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR)
Once the IRCC has received your PR immigration application, you will receive an Acknowledgment of Receipt also known as an AOR. This AOR is a confirmation that your application file has been created. You may also be referred to an “AOR date” which is the date from when your 6 months intended processing time begins.
Why Seeking Professional Immigration Help is Essential
Since 2018, the Start-Up Visa program has become permanent. The Canadian government will only process a maximum of 2750 start-up visas per year for start-up entrepreneurs and their families. If the demand for this program is high enough and is successful, the Canadian government may make this permanent. Until that happens, if you think you are the right candidate for this Canadian business visa, then your best chances for success will come from partnering with an experienced immigration professional who can make sure you put the best case forward on your application.
Why Hire Us To Help With Your Start-Up Visa Application?
While the procedures for applying for a Start-Up Visa may seem uncomplicated, some applicants apply without seeking any help from an immigration lawyer, thinking that they can “do it themselves.” For Start-Up Visas, there is a higher risk of refusal in cases where the application is not properly prepared. The standards are very high. We have helped thousands of entrepreneurs to immigrate to Canada, and we can help you too.
Call Us Today
The first step towards moving to Canada is to get an assessment of your specific situation. Call us today at +1.647.792.3035 for an assessment to see if you are eligible to move to Canada, or fill out our online assessment form.