Start-up Visa Program
The Start-up Visa Program offers permanent residence to immigrant entrepreneurs who can build an innovative business in Canada. It requires a qualifying business, a commitment (letter of support) from a designated venture-capital fund, angel-investor group or business incubator, minimum language ability and settlement funds.
Who it's for
Entrepreneurs with an innovative business backed by a designated organization.
Key points
- ✓Needs support from a designated organization
- ✓Minimum language level required
- ✓Proof of settlement funds required
- ✓Up to five applicants can be tied to one business
How it works
- 1Develop a qualifying business and secure a designated organization's support
- 2Obtain the commitment certificate and letter of support
- 3Meet language and settlement-fund requirements
- 4Apply to IRCC for permanent residence
IRCC forms often used
How Lexova helps
Lexova gives the licensed professional one workspace to run the whole file — a bilingual client intake that autofills the IRCC forms this pathway uses, AI cover letters and document sorting, and shared client/employer portals with live progress. Less re-typing, fewer mismatches, nothing missed.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to invest my own money?+
There is no minimum personal investment set by the program, but you must show settlement funds and secure support from a designated organization. Check current details.
Where can I confirm the current requirements?+
The designated-organization list and requirements are on Canada.ca (IRCC); confirm current details there.
Related pathways
This page is general information about Canadian immigration programs and is not legal or immigration advice. Rules, thresholds and timelines change often; always verify the current requirements on Canada.ca (IRCC / ESDC) or with a licensed professional (RCIC or lawyer). Lexova is not affiliated with the Government of Canada.