Canada Start-Up Visa Program
Canada encourages innovative entrepreneurs who have the expertise to launch businesses that foster economic growth and generate employment for Canadians. The Start-Up Visa Program is designed for foreign entrepreneurs with a viable and innovative business idea that is supported by a designated Canadian organization. Successful applicants can obtain permanent residency in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements for the Start-Up Visa
To qualify for the Start-Up Visa Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Qualifying Business
- Hold at least 10% of the voting rights in the company.
- Together with the designated organization, hold more than 50% of the total voting rights.
- Secure a Letter of Support from a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator).
- Present a unique, innovative, and scalable business idea capable of competing globally.
2. Language Proficiency
- Meet a minimum of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 in either English or French (speaking, listening, reading, and writing).
3. Proof of Settlement Funds
- Provide evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself and your family after arrival in Canada.
- The amount required depends on the family size.
- Funds must be your own and cannot be borrowed.
4. Investment Requirements
- Venture Capital Fund: Secure a minimum investment of CAD $200,000.
- Angel Investor Group: Secure a minimum investment of CAD $75,000.
- Business Incubator: No minimum investment required, but you must be accepted into a designated Canadian incubator program.
✅ Applicants are not required to invest their own money, and if the business fails, permanent resident status remains valid.
How to Apply for the Start-Up Visa
- Complete the Generic Application Form for Canada.
- Validate the form and ensure accuracy of all details.
- Print the application, including the barcode page.
- Sign and date the form.
- Gather all required documents listed in the document checklist.
- Take an approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF).
- Pay all required fees (processing fees, permanent residence fees, biometrics, and third-party fees).
- Place your application package in a sealed envelope and use the checklist as the first page.
- Mail the application to the address provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and write “Start-Up Visa” on the envelope.
Processing Time for Canada’s Start-Up Visa
The current processing time for the Start-Up Visa Program is approximately 31-40 months. However, actual timelines may vary depending on:
- The volume of applications,
- Accuracy and completeness of submitted documents, and
- Additional verification requirements.
FAQs :
1. What is the Start-Up Visa Program in Canada?
It is a business immigration program that allows foreign entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas, supported by a designated organization, to obtain permanent residency in Canada.
2. What are the investment requirements?
Venture Capital Fund: CAD $200,000 minimum.
Angel Investor Group: CAD $75,000 minimum.
Business Incubator: No investment required, but acceptance into the program is mandatory.
3. What is the minimum language requirement?
Applicants must meet CLB 5 in English or French for speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
4. Do I need to show settlement funds?
Yes. You must prove that you have enough funds to support yourself and your family. The required amount depends on your family size.
5. How long does processing take?
The average processing time for the Start-Up Visa Program is about 31 months (as per IRCC).
6. Can I keep permanent residency if my business fails?
Yes. Once approved, you can retain permanent residency status, even if the business does not succeed.
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