Start Up
What is the Start-Up Visa Program?
The Start-Up Visa Program allows innovative entrepreneurs to immigrate to Canada by securing support from a designated venture capital firm, angel investor, or business incubator. Unlike traditional business visas, there is no personal investment requirement, making it an accessible and attractive program for global founders.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Have a business idea that is innovative, scalable, and capable of job creation
- Secure a Letter of Support from a designated investor, incubator, or angel group
- Meet the language proficiency requirement (CLB 5 in English or French)
- Demonstrate financial stability to support themselves and their families upon arrival
Successful applicants receive permanent residency, allowing them to develop their businesses while living in Canada.
Start Up
Recent Updates to the Start-Up Visa Program
Canada’s immigration system continuously evolves to attract top global talent.
Here is what is new in Express Entry:
- Priority Processing for High-Potential Businesses: Applications backed by Canadian funding or Tech Network incubators are now being processed faster.
- Cap on Designated Organization Support: To maintain program integrity, organizations can now only sponsor a limited number of start-ups per year—making strong applications more competitive.
- Streamlined Review Process: The peer review process has been temporarily paused, reducing processing times and simplifying approvals.
These updates highlight the importance of securing strong business backing and submitting a well-prepared application.
Start Up
How Does the Start-Up Visa Process Work?
- Develop an Innovative Business Idea: Your business must offer a unique solution with high market potential.
- Secure Designated Organization Support: Obtain a Letter of Support from a government-approved investor or incubator.
- Meet Eligibility Requirements: Ensure language proficiency, financial stability, and business ownership criteria are met.
- Submit Your PR Application: Apply for permanent residency while launching your start-up.
- Move to Canada and Scale Your Business: Establish your company and contribute to Canada’s economy.
Having expert assistance ensures your business idea is viable, well-structured, and fully compliant with immigration requirements.
Start Up
Why Choose Canada for Your Start-Up?
A global business hub with access to funding, mentorship, and an innovation-driven economy
A direct pathway to permanent residency while growing your company
No personal investment is required, making it an ideal opportunity for entrepreneurs without significant capital
At Diverse Visa, we assist with business strategy, securing designated organization support, and preparing your visa application for success.
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