What to Know About the Canada Start-Up Visa Program: Permanent Residence
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: 16 – 31 months
Investor 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.
How Much Money Is Required for Canada Startup Visa?
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 for a Start-Up Visa
Step 1: Complete the Application Package
- Fill out the Application Form: Provide all necessary information on the form.
- Validate Your Form: Click the “Validate” button to ensure all required fields are complete.
- Print the Form: Print the validated form, including the barcode page.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Complete the Document Checklist: Review the checklist to identify necessary documents.
- Collect Documents: Gather all listed documents in the specified order.
- Organize Documents: Place all documents in a sealed envelope.
- Prepare Document Checklist: Print and sign the document checklist.
- Include Checklist: Place the signed checklist as the first page of your application.
Step 3: Pay Your Application Fees
- Cover the processing fees for yourself and any dependents.
- Pay the right of permanent residence fee.
- Include fees for medical exams, police certificates, and language tests.
- Submit biometrics fees as required:
| Type of Applicant | Cost |
|---|---|
| Individual Applicants | $85 CAD |
| Families Applying Together | Maximum total fee of $170 CAD |
| Groups of 3 or More Performing Artists and Their Staff | Maximum total fee of $255 CAD |
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Before sending your application, please ensure it is complete in all respects.
- Review and Sign: Double-check that all forms are signed and completed accurately.
- Payment and Receipts: Include proof of payment for all required processing fees.
- Gather Documents: Collect all supporting documents as outlined in the checklist.
- Prepare Envelope: Place all completed forms and documents in a 9×12 inch envelope. Clearly write “Start-Up Visa Application” on the outside.
- Mail Application: Send the envelope to the designated address.
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.
Benefits of the Canada Start-Up Visa Program
The Canada Start-Up Visa Program offers several advantages for entrepreneurs:
Benefits for the Entrepreneur
- Direct Path to Permanent Residency: Successful applicants can obtain permanent residency for themselves and their families.
- Access to a Supportive Business Environment: Canada offers a favorable business climate, with access to funding, research facilities, and a skilled workforce.
- Opportunity to Build a Business in a Growing Economy: Canada’s strong economy provides a fertile ground for startups to thrive.
- High Quality of Life: Canada consistently ranks high in quality of life indices, offering a safe and welcoming environment for entrepreneurs and their families.
- Potential for Business Growth: The program connects entrepreneurs with experienced investors and mentors, increasing the chances of business success.
Benefits for Canada
- Economic Growth: Start-up businesses create jobs and contribute to economic development.
- Innovation and Competitiveness: The program attracts talented entrepreneurs with innovative ideas, enhancing Canada’s global competitiveness.
- Knowledge Transfer: Immigrant entrepreneurs bring diverse perspectives and expertise, enriching the Canadian business landscape.
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 1.877.296.0874 for an assessment to see if you are eligible to move to Canada, or fill out our online assessment form.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.