Canada Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program
The Canada Start-Up Visa (SUV) is one of the best immigration options for entrepreneurs and innovators who want to establish a business in Canada.
This program provides a direct pathway to permanent residency for the applicant and their family.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the requirements, process, documents, fees, and key tips for success.
What Is the Canada Start-Up Visa?
The Start-Up Visa Program was introduced in 2013 as a pilot and became permanent in 2018.
It is designed to attract creative entrepreneurs whose innovative ideas can drive economic growth and create jobs in Canada.
Unlike other immigration programs, the Start-Up Visa does not require personal investment and provides permanent residency from the start.
Benefits of the Canada Start-Up Visa
Direct permanent residency for the applicant, spouse, and dependent children under 22.
No personal investment required — funding is provided by government-approved organizations.
No age limit or specific education requirement — a high school diploma and IELTS 5 are enough.
Family inclusion: the spouse can obtain an open work permit, and children can study or work.
Permanent residency is maintained even if the business fails.
Access to Canada’s global market and strong economy.
Option for a three-year open work permit (effective October 2024).
Canada Start-Up Visa
If you have an innovative idea and want to grow it in one of the world’s most advanced countries, the Canada Start-Up Visa is the ideal pathway to turn your idea into a global business. With expert guidance from Nasim Mehrepouyan and the Apply to Canada team, you’ll navigate the approval process and gain support from designated organizations.
Get Start-Up ConsultationEligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Start-Up Visa Program, applicants must meet the following conditions:
1. Innovative Business Idea
The idea must be creative, scalable, and capable of creating jobs for Canadians.
It should address a real market need in Canada.
2. Letter of Support
You must receive a Letter of Support from a designated organization such as:
Angel investors: minimum investment of CAD 75,000
Venture capital funds: minimum investment of CAD 200,000
Business incubators: no direct investment required, but training or program fees (CAD 50,000–100,000) may apply
Applicants must hold at least 10% ownership of the company, and the combined ownership of applicants and the designated organization must exceed 50%.
3. Language Skills
Minimum CLB 5 in English or French:
IELTS General – Speaking 5, Listening 5, Reading 4, Writing 5.
4. Proof of Funds (Updated for 2025)
| Family Members | Required Funds (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 14,690 |
| 2 people | 18,288 |
| 3 people | 22,483 |
| 4 people | 27,297 |
| 5 people | 30,690 |
| 6 people | 34,917 |
| 7 people | 38,875 |
| Each additional | +3,958 |
For work permit applicants, proof of funds must be double the above amounts.
5. Background and Medical Checks
Applicants must provide a police clearance certificate and medical exam results.
6. Education
At least one year of post-secondary education (verified by WES or equivalent).
7. Residence
Applicants must intend to live outside Quebec.
Step-by-Step Process
Develop an Innovative Idea
Create a unique and scalable concept suitable for the Canadian market.
Immigration firms can also help refine or present ready-made ideas.Form a Team (Optional)
Up to five partners can apply together, provided each plays an essential role in the business.Prepare a Business Plan
Include your idea, target market, business model, team profile, and financial projections.Obtain a Letter of Support
Submit your plan to designated organizations. If approved, you’ll receive a Letter of Support and a Commitment Certificate.Submit the Application to IRCC
Include all required forms, documents, and your Letter of Support. Some cases may go through a peer review.Apply for a Work Permit (Optional)
A three-year open work permit allows you to start operations before permanent residency approval.Receive Permanent Residency
The processing time for PR applications is usually 31–37 months.
Fees and Expenses
Government Fees
PR application – main applicant: CAD 1,810
Spouse: CAD 1,525
Each dependent child: CAD 260
Right of Permanent Residence Fee: CAD 575 per person
Biometrics: CAD 100 per person
Designated Organization Fees
Business incubators: CAD 50,000–100,000
Angel investors: Minimum CAD 75,000
Venture capital funds: Minimum CAD 200,000
Additional Costs
Educational credential assessment (ECA): CAD 200–300
Language test: CAD 300
Document translation: CAD 200–500
Medical exam: CAD 100–300
Living Costs
Apartment rent in major cities (Toronto, Vancouver): ~CAD 2,600/month
Average monthly living expenses for one person: ~CAD 2,000
Launch Your Innovative Business in Canada
The Canada Start-Up Program is designed for entrepreneurs whose innovation and growth potential can make a real impact on the Canadian economy. Nasim Mehrepouyan and the Apply to Canada team will guide you through every stage — from preparing your business plan to obtaining your official Letter of Support from designated organizations.
Book a Start-Up ConsultationKey Tips for Success
- Have a strong business idea: Choose an innovative and scalable concept that fits the Canadian market.
- Work with reputable organizations: Collaborate with trusted incubators like MaRS Discovery District or Communitech.
- Develop a professional business plan: It should be data-driven, clear, and compelling.
- Improve your language score: Higher IELTS results can significantly increase your success rate.
- Consult a licensed RCIC immigration advisor.
- Network actively: Engage with Canadian entrepreneurs and start-up communities.
- Plan your finances: Prepare sufficient funds for both business and living expenses.
After Receiving Your Visa
Bring all original documents and PR approval when traveling.
Choose your location — Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are top choices for start-ups.
Prepare for Canada’s climate.
Open a bank account and obtain your provincial ID card.
Set up a phone and internet plan.
Network with local business incubators and the start-up community.
The Canada Start-Up Visa Program is a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to build innovative businesses in one of the world’s most advanced economies.
With a strong idea, a well-prepared business plan, and partnership with a designated organization, you can secure permanent residency for yourself and your family.
Focus on preparation, language skills, and expert guidance — and your entrepreneurial dream in Canada can become a reality.
Take Your Idea Global
With the Canada Start-Up Visa, you can expand your innovative idea within one of the world’s strongest innovation ecosystems. Nasim Mehrepouyan and the Apply to Canada team will be by your side from the very first step until you obtain your permanent residency.
Start Your Start-Up Journey
