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At a glance

Quick facts

Minimum investment CA$200,000; Typical timeline 24 months; 3 highlights

Minimum investment
CA$200,000
Currency: CAD
Typical timeline
From application start
Highlights
  • Canada
  • Start-Up Visa
  • Entrepreneur Immigration
~10 sec

Quick eligibility check

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1Question 1 of 2 Do you have an innovative business idea with growth potential in Canada?
2Question 2 of 2 Do you have or can obtain a Letter of Support from a designated organization?

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Program overview

The Federal Start-Up Visa Program provides foreign entrepreneurs the opportunity to obtain Canadian Permanent Residency by creating an innovative business supported by a designated organization such as a venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator.

Investment overview

Applicants are not required to invest their own capital if they have secured funding or endorsement from a designated organization. The focus is on innovation, scalability, and job creation potential rather than personal net worth.

Costs & proof of funds

Costs & funds

Program fees & proof of funds

Fees listed: 3 line items. Estimated totals: CA$2,340 (CAD). Proof of funds items: 1.

Estimated program totals
CAD: CA$2,340
Required proof of funds
CAD: CA$15,000

Detailed fee table

Program fee breakdown with price, timing and notes.
ItemPriceWhenNotes
Government Processing FeeCA$1,625At PR application submission

For main applicant, payable to IRCC

Right of Permanent Residence FeeCA$515After PR approval (or upfront)

Required before issuing PR visa

Medical & Biometrics FeeCA$200During application processing

Covers medical exam and fingerprints per applicant

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We’ll share a personalized cost sheet after your pre-screen.

Proof of funds

  • Settlement FundsCA$15,000

    Required to demonstrate ability to support self and family in Canada

Required (CAD): CA$15,000

Figures are indicative and may change with family size, project selection and program updates.

Eligibility

  • Letter of Support from a designated organization.
  • Own at least 10% of the business.
  • CLB 5 in English or French required.
  • Show proof of settlement funds.
  • Present an innovative, scalable business idea.

Key benefits

  • Get Canadian PR through business innovation.
  • No personal investment if supported by an incubator.
  • Include spouse and dependent children.
  • Access top investors and accelerators in Canada.
  • PR stays valid even if business fails.

Application process

Process

How it works

  1. Step 1: Develop Your Business Idea

    Design an innovative, scalable start-up aligned with Canada’s market needs.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
  2. Step 2: Get Support from a Designated Organization

    Secure a Letter of Support from an approved venture fund, angel investor, or incubator.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
  3. Step 3: Apply for PR through IRCC

    Submit your Start-Up Visa application with all required documents and endorsements.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
  4. Step 4: Complete Medical & Security Checks

    Meet IRCC’s health and background clearance requirements.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
  5. Step 5: Work in Canada & Receive PR

    Operate your business under a work permit while your PR is processed, then settle permanently.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks

Who this program is NOT for

  • No support from a designated organization.
  • Weak or unrealistic business concept.
  • Low language score or missing funds.
  • Incomplete or false documents.

Not a match? Explore other programs in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

It’s a federal immigration pathway granting PR to entrepreneurs supported by approved organizations.

No. You only need funding or endorsement from a designated organization.

Yes, your spouse and dependent children are eligible for PR.

No, you can live and operate your business anywhere in Canada.

No. Once PR is granted, it remains valid even if the business fails.
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