Startup Visa (Canada)

This decision reflects the government’s dedication to encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship in Canada, attracting skilled and ambitious individuals from across the globe, and fostering economic growth. As the Start-up Visa program plays a crucial role in this strategy, expanding the number of spots for participation is a positive step in achieving these objectives. The expansion of the program will not only benefit the Canadian economy, but also offer individuals the chance to establish their own businesses and contribute to the growth and development of their communities.

What are the steps to secure a work permit in Canada through the Start-Up Visa program?

Before seeking permanent residency through the Start-Up Visa initiative, individuals interested in applying can first obtain a temporary work permit through the International Mobility Program. Entrepreneurs involved in start-ups who have obtained a Commitment Certificate and Letter of Support from approved investors have the option to apply for a short-term work permit, fulfilling both the roles of the employer and the employee. There are three categories of institutions empowered to provide letters of support through the Start-Up Visa program: venture capital funds, angel investor groups, and business incubators.

In order to qualify for a work permit under the Startup Visa program, every candidate must:

• Have the intention to become a resident of a Canadian province, except Quebec;
• Meet the employer compliance fee required by the program guidelines;
• Obtain a Commitment Certificate and Support Letter from an institution that recognizes the entrepreneur’s important role in the startup and explains the early entry of the applicant into Canada;
• Show that they have enough funds to support themselves and their family for 52 weeks.

What are the steps for obtaining a work permit for the Startup Visa program?

Before applying for a work permit through the Startup Visa program, all applicants must have a job offer and pay the required government fee. The specific guidelines to follow depend on whether the business is registered for a business number with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). If your company is not yet registered and does not have a business number, you cannot use the employer portal. In this case, you must send an email to the online employer portal support service, indicating that you are an entrepreneur and providing your full name, date of birth, citizenship, country of birth, and gender. Once your email request is approved, you will receive instructions via email on how to complete the necessary forms and pay the employer fee.

Requesting a work permit under the Startup Visa program

Individuals who wish to establish a new business in Canada can apply for a work permit through the Startup Visa (SUV) program. The Canadian government announced updated guidelines on June 17, 2023, for obtaining work permits for participants in the SUV program. Notably, applicants can now apply for a work permit that is valid for up to three years, a significant extension from the previous one-year limit. This longer work permit duration allows entrepreneurs to focus on their startups and pursue their business goals without needing to renew their work permit annually.

Additionally, applicants now have the option to request an open work permit, which gives them the flexibility to work for any employer in Canada, not just their own startup. This change provides entrepreneurs with more opportunities to gain valuable work experience in Canada, expand their professional networks, and potentially explore new avenues for business growth.

Additionally, all members of the entrepreneurial team now have the opportunity to apply for a three-year open work permit. This change highlights the importance of having a cohesive team dynamic for the success of a startup, allowing all team members to actively contribute to the growth of the business.
Candidates can choose to apply for a work permit either online or through traditional paper submission. While most applications are typically submitted from outside of Canada, it is also possible to apply for a work permit from within the country. It is crucial to carefully review the requirements based on where you plan to apply and ensure that you meet all compliance standards. Before submitting your application,
make sure you have the following documents ready:

• A letter of endorsement from a designated individual
• Proof of financial resources
• Job offer reference number
• Confirmation of payment for the employer compliance fee
• Results from a medical examination
• Valid police clearance certificate

Verification of Financial Resources Before applying for a work permit, it is necessary to ensure that your family income meets or exceeds the low income cut-off (LICO) for a period of 52 weeks. It is important that the funds are available and not restricted in any way. To prove your financial situation, Canadian authorities will accept cash, documentation showing assets or capital allocated to you, or documentation guaranteeing a specific sum of money. Bring your family to Canada through the Startup Visa program. Anyone applying for a work permit through the Startup Visa program can bring their spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children with them to Canada, as long as they meet the requirements for temporary residency. If your spouse or partner plans to work in Canada, they can apply for an open work permit. Children who want to study in Canada can apply for a study permit to attend school.