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Start-up Visa

​Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program offers innovative entrepreneurs the chance to launch their businesses in one of the world’s most thriving economies. This program enables you to secure Canadian permanent residency while driving economic growth and innovation in Canada.

Why Choose the Start-Up Visa Program?

  • Pathway to Permanent Residency: Obtain Canadian permanent residence for yourself and your family while establishing a future-focused business.

  • Global Opportunities: Build your venture in a supportive ecosystem with access to funding, mentorship, and a highly skilled workforce.

  • Family Inclusion: Bring your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children to Canada for a seamless transition.

  • Start Your Business in Canada: Gain the resources, network, and support needed to launch and grow a successful business in Canada.

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Innovative Business Concept: Receive support from a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator) to validate your idea and help you succeed in the Canadian market.

  2. Language Proficiency: Meet the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 in English or French to ensure you can communicate effectively in the business environment.

  3. Settlement Funds: Demonstrate the financial resources to support your family upon arrival while building your business.

  4. Ownership & Management: Retain significant ownership of your business and ensure it operates within Canada.

How the Program Works

  1. Secure Organizational Support: Obtain a letter of support from a designated organization such as a venture capital fund, which demonstrates their belief in your business potential.

  2. Submit Your Application: File for Canadian permanent residency for entrepreneurs through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

  3. Optional Work Permit: Start your business operations in Canada while your application is under review, helping you make an early impact.

Benefits of the Start-Up Visa Program

  • Business Immigration to Canada: The Start-Up Visa Program is one of the most popular pathways for entrepreneurs to immigrate and establish a thriving business in Canada.

  • Access Global Talent: The program facilitates connections with skilled professionals, allowing you to build a team and scale your operations.

  • Economic Growth Opportunities: Entrepreneurs under this program contribute to Canada’s economy by driving innovation and creating jobs.

Why Work with Us?

At Northia Immigration, we guide entrepreneurs through every stage of the Start-Up Visa Program. From building a compelling business portfolio to securing a letter of support, we help you navigate the different stages of business immigration to Canada. 

Contact us today to explore your eligibility for the Start-Up Visa Program!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1

What is the Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program?

The SUV program offers entrepreneurs a chance to gain permanent residency by launching a business in Canada. You must secure support from a designated organization, prove your business idea is innovative, meet language requirements, and have enough funds to settle in Canada

2

How do I secure a letter of support for my Start-Up Visa application?

To secure a letter of support, you need to pitch your business idea to a designated organization approved by the Canadian government, such as a venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator. If they find your idea promising, they will issue a letter of support, which you must include in your application.

3

Can my family accompany me if I am approved under the Start-Up Visa Program?

Yes, if you are approved for permanent residency through the Start-Up Visa Program, your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children can also apply for permanent residency and join you in Canada.

4

 Can essential members of the start-up team apply for a work permit under the Start-Up Visa Program?

Yes, essential members of the start-up team, as identified by the designated organization, can apply for a work permit while waiting for permanent residency. 

5

Are there specific industries that qualify for the Start-Up Visa Program?

No, the Start-Up Visa Program does not restrict applicants to specific industries. However, the business must be innovative, scalable, and able to create jobs for Canadians. It's essential to have a unique idea that interests a designated organization, regardless of industry.

6

Can multiple founders apply for the Start-Up Visa with the same business?

Yes, up to five founders can apply for the Start-Up Visa with the same business as long as they all meet the eligibility requirements. Each founder must own at least 10% of the voting rights, and together with the designated organization, they must control more than 50% of the voting rights in the business.

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