How Entrepreneurs Can Immigrate to Canada With the Startup Visa Program
By Radmila Lim, RCIC #R414423 – Lawseph & Associates Inc.
What is the Startup Visa Program?
The Startup Visa Program is a Canadian immigration pathway designed for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas who can create jobs for Canadians and compete globally. Successful applicants obtain permanent residency while developing their startup in Canada with the support of designated organizations such as venture capital funds, angel investors, or business incubators.
What the Startup Visa Program Is Not
- It is not a temporary work permit – it leads to permanent residency tied to your startup’s potential.
- It is not a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – though provinces may support entrepreneurs, Startup Visa is federal and applies across Canada.
- It is not an LMIA-based program – job offers and labour market assessments are not part of the process.
Startup Visa vs. Other Immigration Programs
Startup Visa vs. Express Entry: Express Entry focuses on skilled workers with education and experience. Startup Visa targets entrepreneurs with innovative ideas backed by Canadian investors.
Startup Visa vs. PNP Entrepreneur Streams: PNP Entrepreneur Programs are province-specific with minimum net worth and investment requirements. Startup Visa is federal, requires no minimum net worth, but does require commitment from designated investors.
Startup Visa vs. Self-Employed Program: The Self-Employed Program is limited to cultural or athletic contributions. Startup Visa is broader, encouraging job-creating business ventures.
Concrete Example
Ana, a 29-year-old tech entrepreneur from Brazil, developed a mobile app to improve supply chain efficiency. She pitched her idea to a designated Canadian business incubator and secured their support. With Lawseph & Associates Inc. guiding her through the application process, Ana obtained a commitment certificate, submitted her permanent residency application, and was approved within 16 months. She landed in Toronto to launch her startup, supported by investors and a dynamic Canadian business environment.
Eligibility & Admissibility Requirements
- A qualifying business (innovative, scalable, job-creating).
- A letter of support from a designated organization (VC fund, angel investor, or incubator).
- Language proficiency in English or French (CLB 5 minimum).
- Sufficient settlement funds to support yourself and dependents.
- Admissibility to Canada (clean medical, security, and criminal background checks).
Associated Costs
- IRCC Government Fees: CAD $1,625 (principal applicant PR application + right of permanent residence fee).
- Medical Exams: ~CAD $200–300 per person.
- Police Certificates: ~CAD $50–100 each.
- Business Setup & Incubation Costs: Varies depending on organization.
Lawseph & Associates RCIC Legal Fees
- Initial Consultation: CAD $200 (credited toward full service if retained).
- Startup Visa Application Preparation: CAD $5,000.
- Permanent Residency Submission: CAD $3,000.
- Additional Family Members: CAD $750 each.
Comprehensive legal packages available – contact us for tailored pricing.
Processing Times
The Startup Visa Program typically takes 12–18 months for full processing, depending on IRCC workload and applicant circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to invest my own money?
No minimum investment is required, but your designated organization must commit to your business idea.
2. Can I apply without a designated organization?
No. A letter of support from a designated organization is mandatory.
3. Can my family accompany me?
Yes. Spouses and dependent children can be included in your permanent residency application.
How to Get Started
At Lawseph & Associates Inc., we help entrepreneurs connect with designated Canadian organizations, prepare strong applications, and navigate the PR process. By retaining an RCIC consultant, you minimize risks and maximize your chances of success.
