What Is The Actual Startup Visa Canada Success Rate?
The Startup Visa Canada Success Rate can vary based on various factors, including the individual applicants’ qualifications, the quality of their business ideas and plans, and the business activity requirements at any given time.
For the latest and most accurate information, we requested the approval and refusal rate from the Canadian immigration authorities. They provided statistics, including success rates. You may also find information and insights from recent applicants and entrepreneurs who have undergone the start-up visa process by searching online forums and communities or contacting relevant organizations supporting startups in Canada.
In this article, in addition to approval and refusal rates in the Canadian Startup Visa program, we discuss the start up visa processing times, statistics, advantages and disadvantages, cost and some facts about the SUV program.
What is Canada Startup Visa?
The Canadian StartUp Visa program aims to support international immigrant entrepreneurs who can establish a cutting-edge, globally competitive business that employs Canadians.
These immigrant entrepreneurs are assisted in entering Canada by this business immigration route, which grants them Permanent Residency upon meeting all program conditions. A temporary work permit allows candidates to enter Canada and begin growing their business while they wait for their permanent residency. Under this program, a startup’s initial five partners may obtain Canadian citizenship.
What are the Canada startup visa requirements?
The Start–up Visa Program in Canada is designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs to establish their business there. The main eligibility criteria include:
1. Letter of Support from a Designated Organization Requirements:
You need an endorsement from a recognized Canadian venture capital fund, Canadian angel investor group, or Canada startup visa incubator to qualify for the Start–up Visa Program. These groups must receive the Canadian government’s approval to participate in the initiative. Each type of Designated Organization has specific minimum investment requirements for the Canada startup Visa minimum investment.
2. Qualifying Business Requirements
Your company must be inventive, scalable, and capable of generating employment in Canada. The company should be formed and run out of Canada, emphasizing the creation, manufacturing, and marketing of cutting-edge goods and services.
3. Ownership Requirements
No one or group of people may own more than 50% of the voting rights in the business; the applicant must control at least 10% of those rights.
4. Language Proficiency Requirements
You will need to take a language test to prove your fluency in either French or English. The approved language assessments are IELTS, CELPIP-G, TEF Canada, or TCF Canada, and score a minimum of CLB 5 in Speaking, Reading, Listening, and writing. The IELTS 5 score for a start-up visa is 5 for all skills except reading, which is 4. Not being able to meet this requirement will result in the automatic refusal of your application.
Please be aware that program details and qualifying restrictions are subject to change. Consult with immigration specialists or go to the official website of the IRCC Canadian government for the most up-to-date information.
Canada Startup Visa Advantages and Disadvantages
Consider the benefits and disadvantages of this program before taking any further steps. It is crucial to fully understand what this program offers and whether it is right for you. The SUV program in Canada provides several advantages and drawbacks for entrepreneurs looking to establish their businesses there. Considering them is essential when deciding whether to seek the Start–up Visa route. Remember that program details may change, so it’s necessary to verify the latest information on the IRCC website or consult with an RCIC. Here are some general advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages of the Start-Up Program
Below are some of start up Visa Canada benefits:
- Permanent Residency direct pathway: Successful applicants, along with their families, can obtain permanent residency in Canada, providing long-term peace and access to various benefits.
- Support for entrepreneurs: The program is designed to support and attract innovative entrepreneurs who can contribute to the Canadian economy.
- No Investment requirement or verification: Unlike some other immigration programs, the Start-up Visa program doesn’t require applicants to make a financial investment. Instead, they need to secure funding from designated Canadian investors.
- No limitations on types of businesses: Almost all companies are acceptable in the SUV program in Canada.
- Business partnership opportunities: Allows for a partnership of 5 individuals in the same startup (a minimum of 10% of ownership for each partner is required). Up to five of a startup’s original partners may become Canadian residents under this scheme.
- Quick relocation opportunity: Getting an optional Start-up Visa work permit while IRCC processes the permanent residence application is possible in this program.
Disadvantages of the Start-Up Program
Below are some of the risks of the start up visa Canada program:
- Competitive Selection: The program can be competitive, as limited spots are available. Meeting the program’s criteria and demonstrating the potential for a high success rate.
- Time-Consuming Process: The startup visa Canada processing time can be time-consuming (3+ years) and may take a while to get approval due to peer reviews. This can be a disadvantage for those looking for a quick relocation.
- Investment requirement: Although the SUV program doesn’t require applicants to make a financial investment to secure funding from designated Canadian investors, High capital investments by the founding partners are often required to secure support from venture capital or angel investors, which has a high chance of success rate in this program.
- Business Idea: An extremely well-developed, feasible and scalable business model with a demonstrated track record of success is needed to minimize the risk of rejection.
- Startup visa canada success rate: There is a high risk of refusals at the permanent residence stage if the application stops business activities before issuing a PR visa to Canada.
How to get a Start-up Visa in Canada?
As of October 14, 2022, it is now mandatory to apply online. It helps IRCC serve a faster startup visa Canada processing time. To obtain a Start up Visa in Canada, follow a series of steps. Here are the steps to apply for the SUV program:
1. Meet Eligibility Requirements
Make sure you match the requirements for eligibility, which usually include proving your language skills, possessing a qualifying firm, holding at least 10% of the startup’s voting rights, and obtaining a letter of support from a recognized group.
2. Secure a Commitment from a Designated Organization
Contact a recognized angel investor group, venture capital fund, or company incubator in Canada. The Canadian government must approve these firms’ eligibility for the Program. They must be persuaded to contribute to or assist your startup and write you a letter of recommendation.
3. Complete the Application Package
You can assemble your application package as soon as you obtain the letter of support. This entails filling out the necessary paperwork and supplying supporting documentation, such as transcripts of education, certifications of language ability, and other pertinent data. The forms can be correctly filled out with the assistance of the Instruction Guide (IMM 5759).
4. Pay the SUV Application fee
You will typically be charged for biometrics, the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF), processing fees for you and any applicants you list on your application, and third-party payments. Your Canada Startup visa cost must be paid online. The current application fee for the Start-Up Visa Program set by the IRCC is $2,075 (Subject to Change).
5. Submit SUV Application
Send Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) your completed application. At this point, pay the necessary application fees.
6. Wait for Processing
The government will review your application. The processing periods for this process can vary, and it might take some time. The most recent details on processing timelines can be found on the official IRCC website. Canada startup visa processing time can be changed based on the IRCC workload. According to the IRCC, the current processing time for a Start-up visa is between 12 and 17 months after submitting the application form.
7. Medical and Security Checks
If your application is being processed, you may have to go through security checks and medical exams for you and your family.
8. Receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
If your application is accepted, you will be issued a permanent resident visa for your passport, along with a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). You are permitted to enter Canada once you have your COPR. You can begin developing and running your startup when you arrive and become a permanent resident.
Startup Visa Canada refusal reasons
There are various phases to applying for a Start-up Visa in Canada. Any of these phases could suffer if you make a mistake, refusing your application at the end. IRCC statistics show these are the common reasons for an SUV Program Refusal.
Since immigration Canada makes these judgments case-by-case, we cannot provide detailed information about individual Startup Visa Canada refusals reasons or the precise grounds for denials. We can offer a few typical explanations for visa rejections. Remember that the precise explanations may change based on the specifics of your application. Several frequent explanations for Permanent Resident Refusal Grounds under the Start-Up Visa include:
- Ability to become economically established in Canada.
- Lack of accomplishments and progress completed in the business venture.
- The Designated Organization did not make a proper assessment.
- Improper Purpose under start up visa Canada requirements.
- Multiple Applicant under the same commitment
- Improper Commitment from Designated Organization
- Not Qualifying Business
- Improper application fee for the Start-Up Visa Program
- Insufficient proof of cooperation with possible partners.
Startup Visa Canada Success Rate
IRCC published specific statistics regarding the success rate of the Start-Up Visa program in Canada from 2014 to 2020 that were readily available upon request of any individual. The Canada start-up visa success rate can vary from year to year and depends on various factors, including the quality of applicants’ business plans, their ability to secure investment, and the overall demand for the program.
Arnika Visa has submitted a request for data to a related department for detailed statistics on the Canada startup visa success rate. We gathered the data in the table below to better understand the SUV program approval rate.
The table shows that applications had an average success rate of 77.7% in all designated organizations. This average rate is calculated based on Total Processed/Approved*100. While considering Total Intake/Approved*100, the approval average rate changes to 36%.
Number of Permanent Resident Applications under the Start-Up Program, Processed by year from 2013 to October 2020 | ||||||
Year of Final Decision | Approved | Refused | Total Intake | Total Processed | The approval rate for the Total processed | The approval rate for the Total Intake |
2014 | 10 | 11 | 76 | 21 | 47.6 | 13.2 |
2015 | 98 | 17 | 160 | 115 | 85.2 | 61.3 |
2016 | 103 | 0 | 205 | 103 | 100.0 | 50.2 |
2017 | 229 | 56 | 347 | 285 | 80.4 | 66.0 |
2018 | 231 | 131 | 891 | 362 | 63.8 | 25.9 |
2019 | 625 | 161 | 1,184 | 786 | 79.5 | 52.8 |
2020 (Jan-Oct) | 148 | 38 | 1,147 | 186 | 79.6 | 12.9 |
Grand Total | 1,444 | 414 | 4,010 | 1,858 | 77.7 | 36.0 |
How to prevent the possible delay for your Start-Up Visa Application?
Sometimes, the Immigration Officer may commence a peer review if the Officer doubts the validity or feasibility of the business. The peer review panel will confirm the chosen SUV business’s compliance with industry standards for inspections and investigations.
Experts in the relevant field thoroughly evaluate the business idea as part of a peer review process for SUV applications in Canada. The peer review assesses the proposed startup’s viability, inventiveness, and likelihood of success. The following are some crucial factors that could be considered in a peer evaluation for a Canadian start-up visa:
- Business Idea and Innovation: Peer assessors evaluate the company idea’s originality and inventiveness. They seek proof that the suggested start-up offers something novel or distinctive to the market.
- Market Research and Analysis: It is essential to comprehend the target market deeply. Peer reviewers assess the applicant’s quality of market research to show potential for growth, competition, and demand.
- Business Plan: An essential part of the business plan. Peer reviewers assess the plan’s practicality, coherence, and completeness. This covers operational planning, marketing strategies, and financial estimates.
- Management Team: The management team’s qualifications and background are crucial. Peer assessors evaluate the team’s competence to effectively carry out the business strategy.
- Financial Viability: The proposal’s financial components are carefully examined. Peer reviewers assess the business’s sustainability, funding sources, and financial prospects.
- Job Creation Potential: Encouraging job creation in Canada is one of the objectives of the Startup Visa initiative. Peer reviewers can evaluate if the suggested startup can generate jobs.
- Letters of Support: An application may be strengthened by receiving letters of support from approved entities such as business incubators, venture capital funds, or Canadian angel investor groups. Peer reviewers might take these organizations’ reputations and trustworthiness into account.
To resolve these issues, applicants must include thorough and adequately documented information in their application. The goal of the peer assessment process is to guarantee that the businesses that are chosen can make a beneficial impact on Canada’s innovation and economy. The instructions given by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and any other organizations designated to assist in the assessment process should be closely followed by applicants.
Canada Startup Visa Success Stories
In recent years, Canada aims to welcome around 500 new permanent residents annually under the Start-up Visa Program. This estimation is based on the IRCC Immigration Levels Plan. The table below shows the Start up Visa Canada statistics for the past years. It shows admissions of permanent residents by the province under the Start-up Visa Program. The highest number of approved start–up visa applications were admitted to Ontario and British Columbia.
Admissions of Permanent Residents under the Canada Start-up Visa Program | ||||||
Province/Territory | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 |
Ontario | 40 | 45 | 55 | 60 | 245 | 125 |
British Columbia | 10 | 45 | 65 | 140 | 160 | 85 |
Alberta | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 40 | 20 |
New Brunswick | 0 | 0 | 5 | 15 | 0 | 10 |
Prince Edward Iceland | 0 | 10 | 10 | 25 | 60 | 5 |
Nova Scotia | 0 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 10 |
Newfoundland and Labrador | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
Manitoba | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
Total (Canada) | 55 | 110 | 135 | 240 | 410 | 265 |
Canada Startup Visa FAQ
What is the actual processing time for the Start up Visa Canada?
Depending on the specifics of each case and the volume of applications, the Startup Visa Canada processing time varies. After applying for the SUV program, which takes 24 and 48 months to complete, you and your family are granted permanent residence in Canada. You can apply for a start–up visa work permit to arrive sooner. With this visa, you can relocate to Canada in three to six months and begin working on your starting business while you wait for your application for permanent residency to be processed.
Can I apply for a start-up visa if I've previously been rejected for a visa?
Under Canadian immigration law, you are not automatically ineligible to apply for the Start-Up Visa if you have previously been rejected for a visa. As long as you complete startup visa requirements, prior visa refusals shouldn’t affect your eligibility, as each application is evaluated on its own merits.
What is an IELTS score for a start-up visa?
Foreign nationals must meet the language criteria in either French or English to apply for this visa. To show your language abilities, you’ll need to pass a language competency test authorized by the Canadian Immigration Government (IRCC). You must be able to speak, read, listen, and write in English or French at a level at least equivalent to the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5, which is equal to the IELTS 5 score for a start-up visa is 5 for all skills except reading, which is 4.
Can I get a work permit under Start-up Visa Program?
You must be accepted into the Startup Visa Program to obtain this work permit. Once accepted, you can apply for a permit (to work in your own business) through the regular immigration channels, which include SUV applications or applying at a Canadian visa office in your home country.
The permit was initially valid for just one year. IRCC Canada announced in July 2023 that a three-year open permit would be made available for each startup team member. The open work permit will allow you to work on your business while waiting for your Start-Up Visa application to be processed.
What is the Canada Start-Up Visa program?
The Canada Start-up Visa program allows innovative entrepreneurs the opportunity to run a business in Canada. It gives them an investment visa, provided their startup is a qualifying business. Those innovative entrepreneurs can apply for permanent residence in Canada.
What is Canada start up visa success rate?
The overall startup visa Canada success rate is above 75 percent for the applicant proceeds by IRCC without considering the applicants who applied and waiting for their decision. Strong immigration applications supported by designated organizations such as venture capital have higher chances of success.
What is the Canada StartUp Visa processing time?
According to the CIC processing times online tool, the average Canada startup visa processing time for an SUV optional work permit is 12 months. The average processing time for the Permanent Residence Visa is 37 months.
What is the Canada Startup Visa Cost?
The Canada startup visa cost varies. You might expect anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 for real startups and $30,000 to $100,000 for concept startups as the fee the startup group must pay the designated organization.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Canada startup visa?
Canada’s Startup Visa offers many advantages, such as access to a successful economy, support from designated organizations, and permanent residency. However, disadvantages include severe eligibility criteria, competition for spots, and the demand for a viable business plan. The startup visa Canada success rate depends on navigating these factors effectively for entrepreneurial immigrants.
How Can Arnika Visa Help With Start-up Visa Application?
Would you like to apply for a Canada Startup Visa? In that case, Arnika Visa Immigration Legal Services is a reliable center that will guide and support you throughout obtaining a letter of support and the entire process of immigrating to Canada, including getting the SUV optional work permit and permanent residence.
As a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), offering services to Start up Visa Canada applicants involves a comprehensive approach. Stay informed about the Startup Visa program, staying abreast of eligibility criteria and any updates. Conduct thorough client assessments, evaluating qualifications, business plans, and financial capacity. Educate clients about the program, elucidating the application process and potential challenges. Assisted in developing a robust business plan, a critical component for application success—supported gathering and organizing requisite documents, from personal to business-related materials. Take charge of the application submission, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Act as a liaison between clients and immigration authorities, promptly responding to requests. Uphold the highest ethical standards, maintaining transparency and integrity. Continuously engage in professional development to stay updated on evolving immigration policies and regulations, ensuring clients receive the most accurate and beneficial guidance. Overall, offering RCIC services for Startup Visa Canada applicants demands a thorough understanding of immigration laws, a commitment to client success, and adherence to professional standards.
I got an email from Immigration Canada concerning my SUV application that I gave out misinformation about a compensated representative that I did not indicate in my application. I cannot travel to Canada with my current Canada startup visa work permit, which was revoked. Please advise me on what I can do.
Seek clarification from IRCC (Immigration Canada) on the reasons for revocation. Collect all relevant documents. Consider legal representation for guidance. Addressing this promptly and accurately is crucial.
Official fraud, they haven’t even assigned an application number to our application for years.
I’m sorry to hear about your experience with immigration fraud. It’s crucial to report such misconduct to the appropriate authorities immediately. Additionally, seeking assistance from a reputable and licensed immigration consultant or lawyer can help rectify the situation and guide you through the proper channels for addressing the issue. Remember to document all communication and keep records of your interactions with the fraudulent firm for evidence.
I went through an immigration consultant and applied for a startup visa, which was to be an LMIA exemption, informed by my agent. I applied in 2020 since the WP was delayed. My consultant informed me to apply for a business visitor visa with the support of my Canadian business partner, which was again rejected. The reason for refusal was to apply for ESDC. Last week, I again applied for a Canadian visit visa, which was rejected on February 15, 2024, because my current employment situation does not show that I am financially established in my country of residence, and my visit to Canada is not consistent with a temporary stay given details in the application. I appreciate your support and guidance on the case. Thanks
To address visa rejections, assess previous refusals, ensure accurate financial documentation, solid business plans and partnerships, seek legal advice and strategize reapplication with patience and persistence. Understand reasons for refusals, gather strong financial evidence, refine business plans, consult immigration lawyers, and approach reapplication with resilience and clarity.
I am new to business immigration in Canada. I have checked several options for the PR immigration path to Canada: Provincial nomination, business investor, etc. One of my immigration consultants advised me to take the Start-up Visa path with a guarantee of PR in Canada for the upcoming year. I researched the program and understood that the IRCC may only accept the application if the startup business is inspiring. Also, the startup owner has to make some progress with the company. I am conservative, but I would like to know the pros and cons of a Startup Visa and whether an SUV is indeed a guarantee for PR in Canada, according to some immigration consultants. I appreciate your sharing your thoughts and any progress on the SUV program.
The Startup Visa Program offers a promising path to Canadian PR, but success hinges on a genuinely innovative business idea and demonstrated scalability and progress. Pros include PR potential and entrepreneurial opportunities. However, the cons involve the risk of business failure and strict eligibility criteria. There is no guarantee on any Canadian immigration program, which is against the law.
I have a job and live in the US now, but if I go with the startup visa option as an essential person, do I have to relocate to Canada entirely? Can I travel to Canada once a month (but still live in the US) and work on the business until the PR approval? I am afraid the success has decreased for me.
To qualify under Canada’s Startup Visa Program, you must actively contribute to Canada’s business. While there’s no strict relocation requirement, periodic visits may not suffice. Consult an immigration consultant (RCIC) for personalized advice, ensuring compliance while managing your current commitments in the US.
I applied for my Work Permit under the Startup Visa Program. I got a rejection that “you have not obtained a commitment made by one or more designated entities.” The same was submitted to IRCC directly from the Angel Investor to IRCC in May 2023, and the acknowledgment from IRCC is also available. I have sent a reconsideration request, and the tracking sheet says we have received your inquiry; what does that mean on the portal? It shows the last updated 15th of October; I understand the officer decides to accept or reject. Is there any timeline? Thanks
The “received your inquiry” status indicates IRCC has acknowledged your reconsideration request. There’s no fixed timeline for processing reconsideration. Monitor the portal for updates. For timelines or concerns, consult an immigration professional. Officer decisions vary; stay patient through the process.
What are your thoughts on the chances of getting Visa approval for a startup visa if one student visa is rejected from Canada in 2022 with 216(b)? Thanks
The previous rejection of a student visa doesn’t necessarily impact the startup visa application as it is a PR application. However, it’s crucial to address any concerns raised in the previous application to strengthen the new one. Consulting with an immigration consultant (RCIC) can provide tailored advice based on your specific circumstances to enhance your chances of getting a Canada startup visa approval after rejection.
Hello, my IT Business is in the POC Stage. Can I get a Letter of Support from a designated organization for a startup visa? Or is it easy if the business is in the Market Stage to increase the sucess rate under suv program? Please suggest. I appreciate any help you can provide.
Letter of support feasible at POC stage; market stage preferable. Consult designated organizations for guidance on eligibility. Clarify startup visa requirements. Each case varies; seek expert advice for tailored assistance. Wishing you success in your entrepreneurial endeavors.
Hi, I have recently submitted my PR application under the SUV program. Does IRCC operationalize the 3-year open work permit for startup visa applicants announced last year? Is there any update on the success rate? Thanks
As of now, the IRCC website hasn’t been updated to include the 3-year Open Work Permit for Startup Visa applicants. Stay tuned for IRCC updates on its implementation.
Hello, my sister’s SUV work permit application was refused. We are waiting for the GCMS notes. Do we need to submit the job offer on the employer portal again for reapplication? If we are not required to submit it again, can we use the same job offer number, which starts with an “A”? Thanks
No, you don’t need to resubmit the job offer on the employer portal for reapplication. You can use the same job offer number (“A”) if it remains valid, but ensure any necessary updates are reflected in the reapplication.
Hi, we’re reviewing the work permit application under the Canada StartUp Visa Program. However, the requested documents could be more relevant. For example, “Proof of Business Establishment in Canada” we cannot submit this since the business has not yet been established in Canada. Also, relevant documents such as a Letter of Support or Proof of Funds are not explicitly requested. There is no place to upload “other documents.” how can I deal with it? Or am I on the wrong path? Thank you
You’re on the right path. Consult a regulated Canadian immigration consultant (RCIC) to clarify the documentation requirements. Explain your situation regarding the business establishment and inquire about submitting additional relevant documents like a Letter of Support or Proof of Funds.
Hi, I am in Canada through the Start-up visa program with my family and will extend my work permit and my family’s work and study permit. Regarding the question below, what is the correct answer? Yes or No?
“Does one of the following apply to you?
Are you a spouse, common-law partner or dependent child of a person who holds a work permit or is applying for a work permit (Yes No)? Please guide me. Many thanks
Yes, if you are extending your work permit and your family’s permits, including study permits for your family, the correct answer is “Yes.”
Do I need to be actively involved in the Start-Up business plan, presentation, etc? I am asking this because I have a job (sailing onboard ship) and must be out of home for two months (I am on rotation for 60 days on/off).
In the context of a Canada startup visa, your active involvement in the business plan and presentation is crucial for its success and visa approval. Refusal factors include insufficient commitment and contribution to the startup’s development. Plan your involvement during off-rotation periods or explore remote collaboration options.
What if I only intend to get the PR and would like to continue with my present job until I get it? Will this be an option in this start up programme?
Yes, you can continue your current job while applying for Canada PR through the Start-Up Visa program. However, you must still meet all program requirements, including securing support from a designated organization and demonstrating intent to operate your business in Canada.
Once I get the LOS, could I wait in my home country till I get the PR approval?
You can wait in your home country after receiving the Letter of Support (LOS) until your Canada PR is approved. However, your business should be established in Canada once the IRCC wants to issue the PR.