Business & Employment
Permanent residents can legally work in the start-up venture and open several other businesses in Canada.
Canada Start-Up Visa Requirements
Who Can Apply
Main Applicant Requirements
- 18+ years of age
- Good health
- No criminal record
- Business idea endorsed by a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator)
- Meeting language requirements (English or French)
- Sufficient settlement funds
Eligible Dependents
- Spouse of the main applicant
- Adult children (biological or adopted) under 22 years of age
Canada Start-Up Visa Benefits
Health & Education
Access to world-class health services and high standard education opportunities for you and your family.
Straightforward Process
Designed to be a smooth and straightforward process with a timeframe that varies depending on processing times.
Pathway to citizenship
Canadian Permanent residence status is valid for 5 years. If you have physically lived in the country for 730 days out of the five years, you become eligible for Canadian citizenship.
Tax Relief
Canada offers a favourable tax regime for businesses and individuals.
Dual Citizenship permitted
There is no need to renounce your current citizenship(s), and your home authorities are not notified of your new citizenship.
Legal Basis
The Canada Start-Up Visa program is based on the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and associated regulations.
Costs of Canada Start-Up Visa
Processing Fees & RPRF (Right to Permanent Residency Fees)
Main ApplicantCAD 2,140
SpouseCAD 1,365
Dependent child below 22CAD 230
Biometrics feesCAD 170
Application Process For Canada Start-Up Visa
Expected timeframe: 14-18 months
01
Pre-screening & down payment
Pre-screen your passport copy for government pre-approval. A down payment of professional fees is required to open your application. Response is in 24-48 hours.
02
Business plan preparation
Prepare a comprehensive business plan outlining operations, financial projections, and growth potential.
03
Document collection
Collect required documents according to the government checklist to ensure proper compilation and submission.
04
Designated organisation endorsement
Submit your business plan and supporting documents to a designated organisation for endorsement.
05
Application to IRCC
Submit your Start-Up Visa application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) with all necessary documentation.
06
Biometrics appointment
Attend a biometrics appointment at a visa application centre. Interview preparation will be provided.
07
Visa approval & travel
Upon approval, receive your Start-Up Visa and arrange travel to Canada.
08
Establish your business
Establish and operate your business according to your endorsed business plan.
09
Ongoing compliance
Maintain compliance with Start-Up Visa requirements. After 3 years of residency, you may apply for Canadian citizenship if eligible.
Visa-free Countries for Canada Start-Up Visa
Canadian Start-Up Visa primarily grants you the right to live and work in Canada.
