The Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program

A federal initiative to attract innovative entrepreneurs to establish and expand businesses in Canada.

Innovate and Immigrate: The Start-Up Visa Program for Entrepreneurs

Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program is designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs from around the world who have the skills and potential to build businesses that can create jobs for Canadians and compete on a global scale. This program offers permanent residency to qualified entrepreneurs and helps establish Canada as a leader in business innovation.

Key Requirements for the Start-Up Visa Program:

  • A Qualifying Business: The business must be innovative, viable, and have the potential for significant growth. The entrepreneur must hold at least 10% of the company’s voting rights, and no other parties can hold 50% or more.
  • Commitment from a Designated Organization: Entrepreneurs must secure a letter of support from a designated organization, which can be:
    • Venture Capital Funds: A commitment of at least $200,000 CAD from a designated venture capital firm.
    • Angel Investor Groups: A commitment of at least $75,000 CAD from a designated angel investor group.
    • Business Incubators: Acceptance into a business incubator program that supports business development and growth.
  • Language Proficiency: Applicants must meet the minimum language requirements in either English or French (CLB 5) in speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
  • Sufficient Settlement Funds: Applicants must demonstrate that they have enough money to support themselves and their family once they arrive in Canada.

How the Start-Up Visa Program Works:

  • Step 1: Secure Support: The first step is securing support from one of the designated organizations. They will assess your business idea and provide the necessary backing if they believe in its potential.
  • Step 2: Apply for Permanent Residency: Once you have a letter of support, you can apply for permanent residency through the Start-Up Visa Program.
  • Step 3: Establish Your Business in Canada: While your permanent residency application is being processed, you can apply for a temporary work permit to come to Canada and begin working on your business.

Benefits of the Start-Up Visa Program:

The Start-Up Visa Program offers a unique pathway to permanent residency for entrepreneurs who have innovative ideas and the drive to succeed in Canada’s dynamic business landscape.

  • Permanent Residency: Successful applicants and their family members receive permanent residency, allowing them to live and work in Canada.
  • Business Development Support: Designated organizations provide mentorship, resources, and guidance to help start-ups succeed in the Canadian market.
  • Access to Global Markets: With Canada’s strong economy and trade agreements, start-ups have the potential to scale and reach international markets.

Why Choose Canada for Your Start-Up?

  • Thriving Start-Up Ecosystem: Canada is home to a vibrant entrepreneurial community with access to top talent, investors, and incubators.
  • Strong Economy: Canada’s stable economy, coupled with government support for innovation, makes it an ideal place to grow a business.
  • Quality of Life: Entrepreneurs and their families benefit from Canada’s high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and world-class education system.

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