The Canada start-up visa is designed for innovative entrepreneurs who want to launch a business in Canada and secure PR for themselves and their families. Once you receive a letter of support from a designated organization, you may even qualify for an open work permit to start building your business while your PR application is in process.
This guide provides essential information about obtaining PR under SUV Program, including detailed aspects of how the program works.
Understanding Team Roles in the Canada Start-Up Visa Program
You may apply for the Start-Up Visa Program either individually or as part of a team consisting of up to five business founders.
Who Are Essential Members?
An essential person who is crucial to the success of the business will be identified as such by the designated organization in both the commitment certificate and the letter of support.
If the application of an essential person is refused, all applications of other essential people for one request linked to the same business proposal will also be refused.
Who Are Non-Essential Members?
Non-essential members are valuable but not considered vital to the operation or development of the startup. Therefore, the business can still proceed without them.
Open Work Permit for Canada Start-Up Visa
If you (and other essential members) have applied for permanent residence under the Start-Up Visa Program, you may also qualify for an optional open work permit.
- is valid for up to 3 years
- allows you to work as an entrepreneur to build your business
- enables you to work for most employers in Canada to supplement your income
Residency Status for Family Members under SUV
Applicants can include their families in applications for PR under SUV:
- Spouse or common-law partner
- Dependent children (under 22 and not married)
Note: Applicant’s spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit.
Healthcare Benefits
Once in Canada, your family members can access the country’s subsidized healthcare system, ensuring their well-being during the immigration process.
If a Startup Business Fails, What Happens for PR under SUV?
Once you obtain PR through the Start-up Visa, your status doesn’t depend on the success of your business. Even if the business doesn’t succeed, your PR remains valid. The Canadian government has designed the program to share this risk between the public and private sectors.
Is Presence in Canada Required for the Start-Up Visa?
- Apply for the Start-Up Visa: You can submit your application online, without being in Canada.
- Apply for Permanent Residency: You can submit your application online, but after approval, you need to actively and continuously manage your business from inside Canada.
- Apply for Open Work Permit: You can submit your application outside or inside Canada.
Updates to the Start-Up Visa Program (2025)
According to the latest update from Canadian government website, The Canada Start-Up Visa program recently experienced some changes, from April 30, 2024, to facilitate the application processing:
- Capping PR Application: From April 30, 2024, to December 31, 2026, each designated organization can support up to 10 start-ups per year.
- Priority Processing: Applications capital-backed or supported by Canada’s Tech Network incubator receive priority processing.
- Open Work Permit Now Available for Main Applicants: After getting a letter of acknowledgment, applicants can apply for a three-year open work permit.
Final Thoughts
The Canada Start-Up Visa (SUV) is your chance to turn innovation into opportunity. If you have a new idea for solving a challenge in the Canadian market or economy, you may be eligible for the SUV program.
If you want to get Canada PR under the SUV, take the first step today to find your eligibility through a free CanadaPass assessment form. Our experts provide specific and useful services and consultations to help you achieve a successful immigration journey to Canada.
