The Start-Up Visa Program

The SUV program is an immigration process focused on entrepreneurs with an innovative business (tech product or service) who want to establish their companies in Canada. There are main requirements for the applicants (founders/co-founders), family members (spouse and children up to 21 years old) and for the business too.

Businesses that qualify for this program should:

  • Be Innovative
  • Be able to create jobs for Canadians
  • Be able to compete on a global scale

To qualify for the program:

  • You must have a qualifying business 
  • Get a letter from a Designated Organization
  • Meet the minimum Language Requirement
  • Bring enough money to settle in Canada
Designated Organization:

Designated organizations are business groups that are approved to invest in or support possible start-ups through the Start-up Visa Program. To apply for the Start-up Visa Program, your business idea or venture must get the support of one or more of the designated organizations listed below:

Organizations choose which business proposals to review. Each organization has its own intake process for proposals and criteria used to assess them. For example, you may be asked to present your business concept in person or submit a detailed business plan.

If an organization decides to review your business idea, it’ll assess the potential of your proposal and whether or not it’ll succeed.

If an organization chooses to support your business idea, it’ll give you a Letter of Support. (A letter of support is given to the applicant by the designated angel investor group or venture capital fund. It is proof that they will support your business idea.)

To see the groups, follow this LINK:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/start-visa/designated-organizations.html#venture

Language Criteria:

Your ability to communicate in English and/or French will help your business succeed in Canada. A Language test needs to be submitted as proof of your ability. You will be tested on the following components:

  • Speaking 
  • Listening 
  • Reading
  • Writing
Bring enough funds: 

The Government of Canada does not give financial support to new start-up visa immigrants.

When you apply, you’ll need to give proof that you have the money to support yourself and your dependants after you arrive in Canada. You can’t borrow this money from another person.

The amount you need depends on the size of your family. We update these amounts every year.

At World Access Immigration:

We will qualify you for this process and put you in touch with experts in Canada that will guide you on this path. You will be put in touch with a Designated organization that will request an interview from all the business partners in order to get to know your intended company. This Designated Organizations would be able to guide you through the process. These Organizations will invest in your dream, and prepare you for the Canadian Business Market.