Canada Start-up Visa | 2026 Guide to Requirements, Costs & Documents

A Business-First Approach to Immigration: Build & Grow With Confidence.

The Canada Start-up Visa (SUV) program is a premier pathway to Permanent Residency for entrepreneurs. This comprehensive guide covers every detail you need: learn about the eligibility criteria, minimum investment requirements, a full breakdown of costs, the necessary documents, and the critical process of obtaining a Letter of Support from a designated organization.

At Shekarian Law PC, we go beyond processing applications, ensuring your venture is built for long-term success while securing PR for you, your co-founders, and your family.

What is the Start-Up Visa Program?

Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program is a unique immigration pathway designed for innovative entrepreneurs looking to establish and scale their businesses in Canada. Unlike traditional economic immigration programs that focus on investment capital and strict job creation requirements, the SUV program is flexible and permissive, allowing high-potential start-up entrepreneurs to come to Canada and build their businesses—without requiring upfront capital.

One of the biggest advantages of the SUV program is that up to five co-founders can apply for permanent residence (PR) with a single business. This means an entire founding team can immigrate together, provided they secure support from a Designated Organization (DO)—a venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator approved by the Canadian government. Unlike other entrepreneur programs, an entrepreneur’s immigration status is not contingent on the success of their business. Canada is investing in potential, not just results, making the SUV program an attractive option for ambitious founders worldwide.

The program also allows entrepreneurs to apply for a temporary Work Permit (WP) while their PR application is being processed, enabling them to move to Canada early and actively develop their business before securing permanent status.

By investing in innovation and entrepreneurial potential, Canada has positioned the Start-Up Visa Program as one of the most attractive immigration options for global founders.

SUV Requirements – Permanent Residence  

To qualify for permanent residence (PR) through Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program, entrepreneurs must meet the following five key eligibility criteria:

1.     Have a Qualifying Business:

The venture must be structured in a specific way: Each SUV applicant (maximum of 5) must hold at least 10% of the total voting rights in the company. Collectively, all applicants and the designated organization must hold more than 50% of the total voting rights. Importantly, the focus is on control rather than ownership, allowing significant flexibility in onboarding non-controlling investors without compromising eligibility.

While incorporation in Canada is not required at the time of PR application submission, applicants must demonstrate a clear intention to:

1. Incorporate their business in Canada;
2. Actively manage it from within Canada; and,
3. Ensure that an essential part of the operations occurs in Canada.

These requirements ensure that the venture is not just a placeholder for immigration but a genuine effort to contribute to Canada’s economy.

2.     Secure a Letter of Support from a Designated Organization:

A designated organization is an IRCC-approved business entity that evaluates and endorses start-ups with high potential. To meet this requirement, entrepreneurs must successfully pitch their business to an approved venture capital firm, angel investor group, or business incubator. If the organization sees promise in the venture, it will issue a Letter of Support, which is a mandatory document for the PR application.

In addition to the Letter of Support, the designated organization will submit a Commitment Certificate directly to IRCC, outlining the terms of their endorsement. This document plays a crucial role in IRCC’s assessment of the application.

Cap on Applications:

IRCC introduced a cap where, until December 31, 2026, each designated organization may have up to 10 complete group applications considered per calendar year, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Note: because the program is paused as of Jan 1, 2026, this cap mainly matters for understanding the rules that applied before the pause and for files already supported within the 2025 intake.

3.     Meet Language requirements:

Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English or French with a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. While CLB 5 meets the minimum eligibility requirement, it is a basic proficiency level and may not be sufficient for effectively running a business in Canada.

Strong language skills are crucial for negotiating contracts, pitching to investors, engaging customers, and navigating Canada’s business landscape. Entrepreneurs should consider improving their language abilities to enhance their chances of success in the Canadian market.

4.     Proof of settlement funds:

Applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient liquid, unborrowed funds to support themselves and their dependents after arriving in Canada.

While the minimum required amount set by IRCC is relatively modest—for example, $27,297 for a family of four—this does not accurately reflect the true cost of living in all regions of Canada. Canada is a vast country with significant regional cost variations, and living expenses in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver can be substantially higher. Applicants should carefully research and plan their finances based on the realities of the city or region where they intend to settle.

For the latest financial requirements, visit IRCC’s official settlement funds chart.

5.     Admissibility:

In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria, applicants must also be admissible to Canada, meaning they must pass medical, criminal, and security screenings.

• Medical Examination: Applicants must undergo a medical exam to show they do not have a condition that poses a risk to public health or safety or would place an excessive demand on Canada’s healthcare system.
  • Criminal Record Check: Applicants must submit police clearance certificates from every country they have resided in for more than six months since turning 18.
  • Security Screening: The Canadian government conducts a security assessment to determine if the applicant has been involved in activities that could threaten Canada’s security, such as terrorism, espionage, or organized crime.

Failure to meet these requirements can lead to application refusal, regardless of eligibility under the program.

SUV Requirements – Optional Open Work Permit   

The SUV allows applicants to apply for a temporary work permit (WP) while awaiting a decision on their PR application. This enables entrepreneurs to come to Canada sooner, and actively work on their businesses before receiving PR.

The work permit granted under the SUV program is a three-year open work permit, allowing entrepreneurs to:

• Work on their start-up in Canada.
• Take on additional employment with other employers if needed to supplement their income.

However, the eligibility requirements for this work permit are more stringent than those for PR. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

1.     PR Application Submission Requirement

All members of the start-up group must submit their PR applications before any member can receive a work permit.

Important If any of the listed applicants on the Letter of Support has not submitted their PR application, no work permit can be issued to any member of the group.

2.     Essential Member Designation

Only applicants designated as essential members of the start-up group are eligible for a work permit.

The essential designation means that the applicant is critical to the business and has urgent reasons to be physically present in Canada for operations.

Important: If an essential member is refused, all other members must be refused as well—making this designation a high-stakes decision.

3.     Language Requirements

The language requirement for the WP is the same as for PR: CLB 5 in listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

Important: Applicants must ensure their test results are still valid when applying for the work permit.

4.     Significant Economic Benefit

This is an additional requirement for the work permit that is not part of the PR application process. To satisfy this requirement, applicants must submit a business plan that demonstrates, among other things, that the business has been duly validated, proving its actual potential to contribute to at least one of the following:

• Job creation for Canadians
  • Product or service innovation
  • Boosting regional or remote economies.
  • Providing training opportunities for Canadians.

Business validation is often demonstrated through a carefully curated combination of supporting evidence, such as: Market research and demand analysis, Evidence of early traction (e.g., early adopters, partnerships, pilot projects, investor interest), Projections on job creation and industry growth contribution.

Under this requirement, immigration officers will assess whether the business presents a credible, well-supported case for economic benefit, making this one  of the most critical components of the work permit application.

5.     Support Funds Requirement

Unlike PR, the work permit requires applicants to meet a minimum income threshold based on the applicant’s family size for 52 weeks before applying.

While the settlement funds requirement for a family of four under PR is $27,297, the minimum income requirement under WP is $54,594—exactly double.

Similar to PR, these funds must be accessible, transferable, and free from debts or obligations.

For the latest financial requirements, visit IRCC’s official support funds chart.

6.     Investment Funds Requirement

In addition to support funds requirement, applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient investment funds to start their business in Canada.

There is no fixed minimum investment amount, as funding needs vary by business.

The visa officer must be satisfied that the applicant has enough capital to successfully launch and operate their start-up in Canada.

7.     Admissibility Assessment

The same admissibility checks (criminal record and security screening) that apply to PR applications also apply to the work permit stage.

Medical Examination Exception: A medical exam is optional for the WP unless the applicant wants to avoid work restrictions in: Healthcare, Childcare, Primary/secondary education, and Agricultural occupations

Types of Businesses that Qualify

Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program is, by design, sector agnostic. This means there are no restrictions or limitations on which industries or niches businesses must come from. However, entrepreneurs looking to increase their chances of securing support from a reliable Designated Organization (DO) should closely follow Canada’s investment trends across different industries.

The following sector insights are based on 2023 Canada-wide investment data (source CVCA):

Sector	Venture Capital (VC) Investments	Private Equity (PE) Investments
Information & Communication Technology (ICT)	$4B across 312 deals (47% of all VC activity) – Dominated by AI, SaaS, and cybersecurity – Key Deal: Cohere.ai secured $368M in a Series C round	$3.5B across 130 deals (21% of PE transactions) – Top sector in PE, reflecting strong investor interest
Life Sciences & Healthcare	$1.1B across 154 VC deals (23% of all VC activity) – Focus on biotech, medical devices, pharma, and e-health – Key Deal: Inversago Pharma acquired for $1.45B	$385M across 54 PE deals – Moderate PE activity, with a focus on biotech and medtech growth funding
Cleantech & Renewable Energy	$1.1B across 75 VC deals (53% increase YoY) – Focus on green energy, thermal, and geothermal tech – $242M across 4 major geothermal energy deals	$1.2B across 28 PE deals – Significant PE investment, indicating a priority sector for institutional funding
Agribusiness & Agri-Forestry	$273M across 50 VC deals – Highest-ever recorded investment volume for agritech	$490M across 56 PE deals – Strong PE backing for agri-tech and sustainable farming innovations
Industrial & Advanced Manufacturing	$570M across 26 VC deals – Growth in automation and robotics startups	$1.5B across 145 PE deals – A top PE sector, with strong investment in infrastructure and energy projects – Key Deal: Aecon Utilities Group secured $205M from U.S. investors
Business Products & Services	$306M across 38 VC deals – Includes SaaS platforms, logistics, and automation	$882M across 63 PE deals – 10% of total PE investments focused on corporate services
Financial & Fintech Startups	$190M across 22 VC deals – Growing focus on fintech, lending platforms, and payment processing	$306M across 27 PE deals – Increasing interest in financial automation and alternative finance

How This Data Helps SUV Applicants

Aligning your business with high-investment sectors can improve your chances of securing a DO and business success.
Tech, cleantech, and life sciences remain Canada’s most investor-friendly industries.

Start-Up Visa Common Refusal Grounds

Refusal Reason	Cited Reg	% of all refusals	Explanation
Artificial Transactions (Program Misuse)	R89	33%	IRCC determines that the primary purpose of the SUV application is to obtain immigration status rather than genuinely build a business. This includes passive or placeholder businesses with no real intent to operate in Canada.
Non-Compliance with the Act (Failure to Disclose Key Information)	A41(a)	13.3%	Applicants fail to fully and truthfully answer questions, often related to immigration history, past refusals, or inconsistencies in business details. Example: Dhamngir v. Canada, where an SUV applicant was refused for not disclosing prior visa refusals.
Misrepresentation, Incompleteness, or Untruthfulness	A11(1)	12.4%	IRCC finds inaccurate, misleading, or incomplete information in the application, including discrepancies in funding, business ownership, or misaligned statements.
Failure to Provide Required Information	A16(1)	11%	Applicants fail to fully answer IRCC’s requests, including procedural fairness letters, additional documentation, or follow-up questions. This applies even when the omission is unintentional.
Business Viability Concerns (Outdated Ministerial Review Standard)	MI SUD 9(2)	5%	Historically used when IRCC conducted peer reviews of business models under the Ministerial Instructions (MI). While peer reviews are currently paused, past refusals cite lack of innovation, scalability, or viability.

Source: Data obtained from IRCC through an Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) request – “Refusal grounds for Permanent Resident (PR) applications refused between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2023, under the Start-Up Business category, by refusal ground (in instances).”

Start-Up Visa Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Develop a Solid Business Case

Before approaching Designated Organizations (DOs) or preparing your immigration application, your first priority should be crafting a well-thought-out business plan.

Your plan must go beyond marketing buzzwords—it needs to demonstrate:
Market potential – Is there a clear demand for your product or service?
Scalability – Can the business grow and expand beyond its initial stage?
Innovation – How does the business stand out in a competitive global market?

The SUV program does not accept passive investment—entrepreneurs must actively develop and manage their business in Canada. A realistic and actionable business plan will not only help secure DO endorsement but also prevent future challenges in demonstrating business viability.

Risk: Poor business planning can jeopardize DO support, affect work permit approval, and invite scrutiny from IRCC.

2. Secure Designated Organization (DO) Endorsement & Letter of Support

Not all DOs provide the same value, credibility, or reliability. It is essential to conduct thorough research and shortlist organizations based on:
Alignment with your business goals – Does the DO have experience in your industry?
Portfolio credibility – Has it successfully supported high-growth start-ups?
Commitment to post-PR support – A good DO is not just one that issues a Letter of Support, but one that provides genuine guidance and resources to help you succeed in Canada.

Before finalizing the Letter of Support, carefully assess:

• The business’s operational needs.
• Which team members should be designated as “essential” for both PR and work permit purposes.

Risk: Many applicants face refusals due to power imbalances with DOs, hidden fees, or last-minute contractual changes. Legal oversight is crucial in negotiating fair agreements and protecting your interests.

3. Submit your PR application

Once the Letter of Support is secured, the permanent residence (PR) application must be completed and submitted through IRCC’s online portal.

a. Create Your IRCC Online Account

As of recent updates, IRCC no longer accepts paper applications for SUV, except in cases requiring accommodation.

b. Complete Forms & Upload Documents

Digital Forms (completed in the PR portal):

• Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008)
• Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669)
• Additional Family Information (IMM 5406)
• Supplementary Information – Your Travels (IMM 5562)

PDF Forms to Upload:

• Document Checklist (IMM 5760)
• Schedule 13 – Business Immigration Programs – Start-Up Business (IMM 0008 Schedule 13)

Additional Supporting Documents Required:

• travel document or passport
• language proficiency test results
• letter of support
• birth certificates
• identity and civil status documents
• children’s information
• police certificates
• photos of you and each family member in Canada
• fee payment receipt
• proof of funds 

For a full list of required documents, download IRCC’s official checklist.

Risk: Missing or incomplete documentation is a leading cause of SUV refusals (12.4% of all cases). Ensuring accuracy and completeness is key to avoiding unnecessary delays and/or refusals.

4. Actively Work on Your Business & Maintain Compliance

After submitting the PR application, founders are expected to start executing their business plan.

• If applying for the optional work permit, you must prove that you are actively managing your start-up.
• Regularly update and engage with your DO for ongoing business support and validation.
• Respond to IRCC’s requests for additional evidence or procedural fairness letters, as these may arise during processing.

Risk: SUV PR approval is not automatic—IRCC may conduct business viability assessments or request additional proof of genuine engagement in the venture. Failure to demonstrate active management can negatively impact your case.

5. PR Approval & Post-Immigration Business Success

Receive PR Confirmation – Successful applicants and their families obtain permanent residence in Canada.

Scale & Grow the Business – Post-PR, entrepreneurs must focus on expansion, funding opportunities, and legal compliance to thrive in Canada’s business ecosystem.

Risk: Many founders assume PR approval is the final step, but business sustainability is critical. Ongoing legal and business advisory support can maximize long-term success.

Why Expert Legal Guidance Matters

While the SUV program may seem straightforward, each step involves legal, business, and immigration complexities that require strategic planning and management. Errors in corporate structuring, DO negotiations, or PR submissions can lead to delays, refusals, or financial losses. We therefore highly recommend that you consider obtaining professional and legal help in your journey.

Designated Organizations: How to Secure Support & Funding

What is a Designated Organization?

A Designated Organization (DO) is a government-approved business entity that evaluates and endorses start-ups under the SUV program. To qualify for SUV, an applicant must secure a Letter of Support from one of the three categories of DOs:

DO Category	Funding Requirement	Role in Start-Up Success
Venture Capital Funds (VCs)	Minimum $200,000 investment	VCs provide equity funding and typically focus on high-growth, scalable businesses.
Angel Investor Groups	Minimum $75,000 investment	Angel investors provide early-stage funding and often support disruptive or niche start-ups.
Business Incubators	No minimum investment, but formal acceptance into an incubator program	Incubators offer mentorship, networking, and workspace support rather than direct funding.

Key Risk: Some DOs charge exorbitant fees for their services without providing real business value. Not all incubators genuinely support start-ups, and many simply issue Letters of Support without meaningful involvement.

How to find a list of approved designated organizations?

The official list of government-approved DOs is published by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This list is regularly updated and can be accessed here.

How to Use the List Effectively:
Shortlist DOs that align with your industry. A fintech start-up should not approach a health-focused incubator.
Research their portfolios. Check what kinds of businesses they have funded or supported before.
Look for DOs with a strong reputation. Many founders report DOs backing out of agreements or asking for hidden fees after signing contracts.

Risk: Each DO has its own application process, selection criteria, and engagement model. Approaching DOs without preparation can lead to rejection or unfavorable agreements.

What is “Priority Processing”?

As part of the April 2024 changes to the Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program, IRCC introduced a 10-business cap on all Designated Organizations (DOs). However, to encourage Canadian-backed entrepreneurship, IRCC has implemented priority processing for applications meeting specific criteria.

Applications qualify for priority processing if the start-up is supported by:
A designated angel investor group or venture capital fund investing Canadian capital.
A business incubator that is a member of Canada’s Tech Network.

This applies to both applications already in the IRCC inventory and new submissions.

How to approach a Designated Organization for Support?

Step 1: Research & Shortlist DOs

• Identify DOs that have previously supported businesses in your sector or industry.
• Verify their track record—have they helped successful start-ups grow, or do they just issue Letters of Support?

Step 2: Prepare a Strong Business Pitch

DOs are not required to accept every applicant—they are looking for start-ups with high potential. Your pitch should cover:
Problem & Solution – What problem does your start-up solve?
Market Opportunity – Is there a clear demand for your product/service?
Business Model & Revenue Plan – How will you generate revenue?
Scalability – Can your business grow beyond its initial market?
Why Canada? – Why is Canada the right place to scale this business?

Step 3: Be Ready for Due Diligence

• Some DOs conduct rigorous screening processes, including interviews, pitch presentations, and business viability assessments.
• You may need to negotiate terms—especially with VCs and angel investors who take equity in exchange for investment.

Step 4: Legal Review Before Signing Any Agreement

Major Pitfalls to Avoid:
Hidden fees – Some DOs charge tens of thousands of dollars for unclear services.
Exploitative terms – Some contracts require waiving legal rights or accepting unreasonable financial obligations.
Conditional support threats – Some DOs withdraw support midway if additional payments are not made.

Final Takeaways: Final Takeaways: The Right DO is a Strategic Partner, Not Just a Gatekeeper

• A good DO does more than issue Letters of Support—they help start-ups grow in Canada.
• DO selection impacts not just immigration but long-term business success—choose wisely.
• Legal guidance is essential in negotiating contracts and protecting founders from exploitation.

Strategic Business Consideration

Opportunities in Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program

Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program offers entrepreneurs a unique platform to leverage several strategic advantages:

Global Market Access: Canada’s extensive network of 15 free trade agreements provides preferential access to 51 countries, connecting businesses to approximately 1.5 billion consumers worldwide. This expansive reach allows companies to operate beyond Canada’s domestic market of 40 million, facilitating international growth and scalability.

Talent Mobility with Permanent Residency Stability: Unlike other countries with a start-up visa program, Canada offers permanent residency to entrepreneurs without imposing stringent requirements on immediate business success or revenue generation. This approach enables entrepreneurial teams to focus on building and scaling their businesses without the added pressure of meeting specific financial milestones solely for immigration purposes. In addition, Canada remains a top destination for global talent, boasting one of the most educated workforces in the world. This presents a strategic advantage for innovative businesses that require access to highly skilled professionals across various industries, from technology and engineering to finance and life sciences. The combination of PR stability for founders and a robust talent pool makes Canada an ideal environment for entrepreneurs looking to grow and sustain globally competitive ventures.

Access to Funding: While Canada’s venture capital market is smaller compared to the United States, its proximity to the U.S. makes it an attractive destination for American investors. for instance, in Q1 2024, 74% of the $1.38 billion in Canadian venture capital investments originated from U.S. and international investors. This cross-border investment dynamic provides Canadian start-ups with substantial funding opportunities.

Government Support for Innovation: Canada, at all three levels of government, offers substantial and continuous support for innovation through various targeted programs. Here are a few notable examples:

1. Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) Program: This federal tax incentive program encourages businesses to conduct R&D in Canada by offering over $3 billion annually in tax incentives to more than 20,000 claimants. Eligible companies can receive investment tax credits of up to 35% of qualifying expenditures, including wages, materials, and overhead.
2. ElevateIP: Launched with a $90 million investment over four years, ElevateIP assists Canadian startups in understanding and strategically managing their intellectual property. The program provides funding to Business Accelerators and Incubators (BAIs) to offer tools and resources that help startups develop and implement IP strategies, including covering fees related to filing and registering IP with IP offices.
3. AI Sector Support: In 2024, the Canadian government committed $2.4 billion to advance the AI sector, focusing on research, commercialization, and infrastructure development. This investment aims to position Canada as a global leader in AI innovation.
4. Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF): Designed to support large-scale, transformative projects, SIF offers contributions starting at $10 million for projects with at least $20 million in eligible costs. The fund targets high-growth sectors such as advanced manufacturing, agri-food, clean technology, and health sciences, fostering innovation and economic growth.

These initiatives underscore Canada’s commitment to fostering a dynamic environment for innovation, providing entrepreneurs with the resources needed to develop and commercialize cutting-edge technologies.

Risks Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program

While the Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program offers unparalleled opportunities, it also comes with key risks and challenges that entrepreneurs must navigate carefully. Understanding these risks is crucial for mitigating potential setbacks and ensuring long-term success in both business and immigration.

1. Dependency and Power Imbalances with Designated Organizations

A major risk in the SUV process is the power imbalance between applicants and DOs. Following the April 2024 regulatory changes, many DOs have started charging exorbitant fees for unclear or ambiguous services, often tied to unfair waivers of responsibility and liability.

The market is filled with horror stories of DOs demanding additional payments after contracts are signed, threatening to withdraw Letters of Support, or failing to honor service agreements. Since DOs hold the key to a successful SUV application, applicants often feel powerless in these situations.

Mitigation Strategy: The best defense is working with an experienced lawyer who understands the SUV landscape, can identify reputable DOs, and negotiate favorable agreements. A lawyer with deep business knowledge can also position the venture effectively, ensuring the DO sees long-term value in supporting the applicant.

• Essential Member Designation Risks:

The Essential Member designation is critical for securing a work permit, and some DOs insist that at least one applicant be designated as an essential member of the group. However, this designation comes with significant risks—if an essential member is refused, all co-founders linked to the SUV application must also be refused. Reasons for refusal could include: Health inadmissibility or security concerns, or an unexpected departure of the essential member from the company for personal reasons.

Mitigation Strategy: Strategic pre-planning is key. Decisions on who should be designated as essential must be made with sound contingencies in place. Working with a lawyer who has deep expertise in immigration law ensures access to alternative legal arguments that can help salvage the application even if an essential member is refused.

• Business Turbulence and Founder Disputes Under the SUV Framework:

Start-up disputes are inevitable. The nature of emerging businesses means that conflicts can arise over: Equity distribution and shareholder rights, exit strategies for founders, or diverging visions on the company’s direction.

Under the SUV framework, these disputes pose even greater risks. What happens if:

1. Two founders want to sell, while the other two want to retain control?
   1. An essential member exits while the PR application is still in process?
   2. The DO withdraws its support for the start-up?

Mitigation Strategy: These risks can be effectively managed through strong corporate structuring, founder agreements, and legal mechanisms embedded within the IRPR. Having a business-savvy immigration lawyer on board ensures the right legal safeguards are in place from day one.

• Business Scrutiny by Immigration Officers

While SUV PR is not contingent on business success, immigration officers have broad discretion to scrutinize the legitimacy of the business and the applicant’s intentions. Officers frequently question the viability of start-ups, poke holes in business models, or challenge the progress made since receiving the Letter of Support. Officers may flag applications if: The business plan lacks credibility, There is no clear market validation or traction, or founders appear disengaged from actual business development.

Mitigation Strategy: The only way to pre-empt these challenges is through a well-structured, meticulously planned business strategy, backed by real execution milestones. Working with a lawyer who understands both immigration and business law ensures that applications are bulletproof against officer scrutiny.

• Occasional Policy-Making Uncertainty

Canada has a long-standing reputation for stability in its immigration policies, making it one of the most predictable and business-friendly immigration destinations. However, like any regulatory system, changes can occasionally occur. While major policy shifts are rare, adjustments—such as the recent cap on Designated Organizations and changes to business immigration allocations in 2024—highlight the importance of staying informed and prepared.

Major disruptions are uncommon, but regulatory refinements can affect processing times, and/or program criteria. Entrepreneurs who are deeply invested in their ventures should have a forward-thinking approach to ensure their business and immigration strategies remain aligned with evolving policies.

Mitigation Strategy: The best way to safeguard against policy shifts is by working with a legal expert who is actively engaged in immigration policymaking. A lawyer who follows regulatory discussions, participates in advocacy, and understands the government’s priorities can anticipate changes before they happen and provide strategic guidance accordingly.

Program Status (2026)

As of January 1, 2026, IRCC has paused the Start-Up Visa Program and stopped accepting new commitment certificates after December 31, 2025. Applicants who already have a valid 2025 commitment certificate must submit their permanent residence application by June 30, 2026 (and before the certificate expires).

Policy can change. We recommend confirming current IRCC intake rules before investing significant time and money into preparation.

Why Choose Shekarian Law PC?

At Shekarian Law PC, we take a business-first approach—we are business lawyers with immigration expertise, not just immigration lawyers. This distinction enables us to strategically position entrepreneurs for success by integrating business law, immigration strategy, and policy insight into every step of the journey. Our unique approach ensures that start-ups don’t just meet immigration requirements but are built for long-term success in Canada’s competitive business environment.

Business-First Legal Expertise: We go beyond immigration law by providing corporate structuring, strategic negotiations, regulatory compliance support, and facilitating high-value partnerships to help businesses grow.

Risk Management & Contingency Planning: From essential member strategies to DO dependencies, we anticipate potential roadblocks and develop proactive legal safeguards to protect your business and immigration status.
Policy Insight & Advocacy Leadership: As active participants in business immigration policy discussions, we don’t just react to regulatory changes, we anticipate and navigate them strategically, keeping our clients ahead of the curve.
Beyond-Immigration Business Support: Our real value shines after PR approval, providing ongoing support with funding and growth strategies, SR&ED claims, IP protection, and strategic negotiations to help entrepreneurs scale in Canada.

The SUV program is not just an immigration pathway—it’s a business opportunity. Choosing Shekarian Law PC means working with a firm that ensures your immigration and business goals are aligned for long-term success.

Start-Up Visa Program at a glance

Pros	Cons
Direct PR Pathway – PR is not tied to business success.	DO Dependency – Must secure support from a Designated Organization.
Up to 5 Co-founders + Family(spouses & kids under 22 get PR)	Essential Member Risk – If refused, all linked PR applicants are refused.
No Personal Investment Required – No need to invest your own funds.	Processing Times Vary (IRCC currently lists “more than 10 years”)
Work Permit Available – Move to Canada early & start working.	Smaller VC Market – Less funding compared to the U.S.
Business Flexibility – No fixed revenue or job creation requirements.	Not All Start-Ups Qualify – DOs define innovation criteria.

Key Benefits Highlight

PR for Founders & Families – Up to 5 co-founders + spouses & kids get PR.
No Personal Investment Required – DO support replaces personal capital.
Work Permit While PR is in Process – Move & start your business early.
Not Tied to Business Success – Once PR is granted, it’s yours.
Business-Friendly Flexibility – No fixed revenue or job creation mandates.

Start-Up Visa Program: Key Facts & Figures

Overall Program Approval Rate	80%
Top Source Countries	Iran, China, India, Vietnam
PR Processing Time	More than 10 years
Work Permit Processing	Varies by country of origin
Number of Applicants Per Business	Up to 5 founders + their families
Investment Requirement	$0 from Applicant; VC: $200K; Angels: $75K;
Application Fees	$2,385 (main applicant), $1,525 (spouse), $260 per child

*Processing times vary. Check this link for up-to-date IRCC information.
*Program approval rates and top source countries are based on IRCC data obtained through Access to Information requests and may not be current.