Canada Startup Visa Refusal – Top Reasons + Solutions

Canada Startup Visa Refusal – Top Reasons + Solutions

This article is worth reading if you’re considering applying for a Startup visa in Canada since it clarifies crucial aspects that can result in your application being denied. We are investigating Canada Startup Visa Refusal and why SUV applications are denied.

SUV regulations in Canada state that all other applicants will be impacted and their PR petitions will be denied if an essential applicant withdraws his case or has his application denied.

canada startup visa minimum investment

Canada Startup Visa Requirements

The Startup Visa Program is intended to allow business owners to establish inventive companies that can compete globally and generate employment. Here are the Canada Startup Visa requirements:

1. Qualifying Business

Own a qualifying company with explicit plans for active and continuous business management from Canada and a minimum number of voting rights. The company needs to be incorporated either right before or right after approval.

2. Letter of Support

Possess a letter of support from a Canada startup visa designated organizations. These institutions include business incubators, angel investor groups, and venture capital funds.

3. Sufficient Funds

There isn’t a specific requirement for the entrepreneur to invest funds into their startup business. However, possess enough money to sustain themselves, thier business and their family once they arrive in Canada is important.

4. Language Proficiency

Be able to converse and work in French or English in Canada and meet the linguistic criteria. The Canadian Language Benchmark Level (CLB) 5 is the minimal requirement in speaking, reading, writing, and listening.

Canada Startup Visa Refusal Reasons

Applying for permanent residency in Canada through a Startup visa entails multiple procedures and necessitates comprehensive documentary proof of the potential startup’s economic feasibility. People from all categories, including high net worth, entrepreneurial, and skilled people, may apply under this heading. However, there will be delays or rejections if the application for the Canada startup visa is not complete, accurate, or current or if the background check turns up information.

The application decision is based on the Canada Startup Visa requirement and eligibility criteria.  If there is any indication that you are not eligible, the decision will not be in your favour. It would be ideal to persuade the visa officer of your start-up idea’s viability, distinctiveness, and scalability. Let’s examine each possible justification for a Canada Startup Visa refusal in more detail.

1. Incomplete Documentation

One of the main reasons for rejection is incomplete paperwork. Verify again that you have submitted all necessary paperwork, such as business plans, legal documents, and financial projections. Documentation mistakes or omissions may cause delays or rejection. Any doubt or lack of clarity in the application could cause issues and result in a rejection.

To prevent any requirements from being missed, it is crucial that entrepreneur applicants closely adhere to the document checklist included in the application packet. If the required supporting documentation is not included with the application, many applications may be rejected or delayed. In addition, your Canadian lawyer or RCIC should examine any additional documents that can strengthen your application but aren’t on the government’s checklist and consider including them.

2. Weak Canada Startup Visa Business Plan

The goal of the Canada startup visa is to draw creative companies to the significance of illustrating the innovation in your company and offering proof to back up your application. This will increase the likelihood that the IRCC will approve your startup visa application.

A poor business plan is one of the most frequent grounds for potential Start-Up Visa application denial. To support the application, your business plan should present a workable and scalable business idea with thorough market research, financial predictions, and product or service demand proof. It is essential to illustrate how starting your business in Canada will help the nation significantly.

3. Canada Startup Visa Refusal due to Insufficient Financing

Although there is no Canada startup visa minimum investment requirement, candidates must still demonstrate their financial capacity and stability and possess the funds required to support both the expense of living in Canada and the operation of a business. Another factor that could lead to a reason for a Canada startup visa refusal is insufficient money to sustain you and your family while your venture develops. Make sure you have enough money for the Canada startup visa cost, and if necessary, present documentation to prove that you are financially prepared.

4. Lack of Relevant Business Experience or Qualifications

The Canadian government highly values talent for entrepreneurship. Rejection may result from a lack of business management or operating experience. Emphasize your accomplishments, credentials, knowledge, and performance history. You’re your essential team member to show how you can help your Canada startup visa application succeed.

5. Fraudulent Activities or Misrepresentation

Falsifying information on your application or tampering with documents is one of the surefire ways to have it rejected. Ensure the data you enter in the application is accurate, verifiable, and truthful. Be open and honest about any prior legal or immigration concerns. Any disparities or irregularities in the application could prompt additional examination and result in rejection.

6. Failing To Meet Language Requirement

English language proficiency is required to immigrate to Canada. The competency level in English or French is determined by the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB). The application must be filed with sufficient exam results. Take language competency tests (such as the IELTS, CELPIP, and TEF) to prove your English or French language skills.

Achieving a CLB level 5, roughly like an IELTS band score of 5, is required for the Canada Startup Visa. Taking online classes or working with a tutor might help you become ready for the language exam. Give the results of any language tests you took and any other documentation demonstrating your language proficiency, including your degree or previous employment in an English- or French-speaking setting.

7. Change in Circumstances

Notify immigration officials immediately if your situation or the business plan significantly changes. As needed, provide revised documentation or material to reflect the changes. During the application procedure, respond promptly to any queries or worries that immigration officials may bring up.

Through a comprehensive response to these possible grounds of denial and the provision of compelling proof, applicants can increase their chances of being granted a Canada Start-up Visa.

8. Medical or Security Checks

For Canada PR, all applicants must pass security and medical examinations. Rejection may result from these checks failing because of criminal histories, severe health conditions, or security concerns.

Conclusion

You must take care of these essential elements if you want to increase your Canada start up visa success rate. Our team of professionals at Arnika Visa is committed to helping you navigate the procedure and improving your chances of acceptance. Speak with one of our startup visa specialists to find out more about the nuances of a Canada PR application and how we can help.

Canada Startup Visa Refusal

Tips To Avoid Canada Startup Visa Refusal

The Canada Startup Visa Program in Canada provides a direct route to Permanent Residence, allowing immigrant entrepreneurs to launch firms there. The program is designed for immigrants who can start creative firms in Canada, employ Canadians, and compete internationally. It is crucial to bring prosperous and cutting-edge companies in fields like artificial intelligence and machine learning as the Canadian economy returns from the COVID-19 pandemic.

When applying for the Canada Start-up Visa program, bear the following points in mind:

1. Follow the Application Instructions

By carefully reading instructions, using the required document checklist in the application packet, and ensuring that all application requirements are met before submitting, applicants can prevent their applications from being denied. Ensure all appropriate paperwork is included and all forms are filled out correctly. Verify again that all application fields are completed accurately and that no necessary information is missing.

2. Avoid Using Unregulated Immigration Consultants

Additionally, it’s critical to steer clear of advice from unlicensed consulting businesses that promise job prospects or free visa evaluations. These companies frequently commit fraud, which leads to the denial of applications and the loss of credit card, bank, and identification information.

Startup Visa Canada success rate

3. Understand Startup Visa Canada requirements

Learn about the eligibility and requirements for the Start-up Visa Program. Ensure you fulfill the minimal standards about firm ownership, investment, language ability, and other aspects.

4. Develop a Strong Business Plan

Your Startup visa Canada success rate is primarily dependent on your business concept. Make sure it explains your business idea, competitive advantage, market analysis, growth potential, and how it fits in with Canada’s innovation and economic priorities.

Applicants should create a solid and thorough business plan that details their objectives, tactics, and benchmarks and offers proof of their progress in reaching these objectives to prevent this.

Give a thorough and convincing business plan that highlights the proposed company’s creativity, scalability, and employment-generating potential. Emphasize how the company will support the Canadian economy and how it fits the country’s economic priorities.

5. Secure Funding

Show that you have enough money to sustain your family and yourself during your first visit to Canada. Furthermore, present proof of the investment capital available for your startup visa Canada cost and explain how the funds will be used to launch and expand the business.

Present a thorough financial strategy that outlines the money’s intended use for starting and expanding the company. Consider housing, transportation, medical care, and other living expenditures when calculating settlement payments.

Give bank statements or proof that you can pay the settlement’s costs. Compute and record the projected cost of living for the first period in Canada. Provide precise records of the origin and accessibility of the monies used for the initial settlement and startup funding—present proof of your own or other people’s financial resources for the venture.

6. Highlight Relevant Experience

Highlight your relevant education, training, and experience in technology, entrepreneurship, or the field you want to pursue. Highlight any prior business successes, leadership positions, or specific expertise that will help your company succeed.

Send in your resumes, certificates, and any documentation of relevant experience in technology, entrepreneurship, or the desired industry. Highlight any prior successful endeavours or initiatives to show that you could successfully carry out the company strategy, which will contribute to your Canada startup visa success rate.

7. Prepare For Language Proficiency Tests

If necessary, be ready for and participate in language proficiency exams (such as the TEF, CELPIP, and IELTS) to show proficiency in French or English. If needed, devote time to honing your language abilities because the application procedure depends on it.

8. Be Honest and Truthful

In your application, give true and accurate information. Any inconsistencies or false statements could result in rejections or delays. Prepare supporting documentation for every piece of information you include in your application.

9. Stay Updated and Responsive

Stay informed about any revisions or modifications to immigration laws and the Start up Visa program. To prevent delays in processing your application, swiftly comply with any requests for further information or explanation from immigration officials.

Give the IRCC evidence that your company will succeed. The IRCC will frequently request updates on the company’s development. If a company can demonstrate clear and consistent growth from the beginning, such as in business development, client acquisition, market and strategy research, and business development, it has a higher chance of being approved.

10. Network and Build Connections

Utilize networking opportunities to establish connections with Canadian business associations, mentors, and other entrepreneurs. Developing a network of contacts can help you get important advice and assistance when negotiating the Start-up Visa application process and launching your company in Canada.

11. Plan for Settlement in Canada

Think about your family’s and your settling strategy in Canada. Once your visa is approved, research housing alternatives, healthcare, education, and other necessary services to ensure a smooth adjustment to Canadian life.

Plan and be ready to wait. Currently, the startup visa Canada processing time is more than 36 months. While essential applicants with immediate business needs in Canada may be granted a work permit, many applicants should anticipate having to wait for the issuing of their visa and an approval letter.

12. Seek Immigration and business Expert Advice

Seek advice from business advisers, immigration specialists, or attorneys with experience in the Start-up Visa Program. They can offer helpful advice on submitting your application, what paperwork is needed, and how to make it stand out.

When applying for a Canadian Start-Up Visa, it’s essential to avoid any errors that could lead to a denial. Hiring a knowledgeable RCIC, such as Arnika Visa Firm, to assist you is critical to preventing frequent pitfalls and increasing your chances of being granted a Start-Up Visa. Our experts can help you avoid errors, ensure all requirements are met, introduce your business plan to possible investors, and guide you through each step of the application process.

You may improve your startup visa Canada success rate and start your business in Canada by paying close attention to the instructions and adequately preparing your Start-up Visa application, hopefully getting a Canadian Permanant residnecy under SUV application to enjoy Canada startup visa benefits.

Canada startup visa processing time

How Arnika Visa Can Help SUV Applicants?

We at Arnika Visa work to realize your aspirations of being an entrepreneur. Due to our extensive knowledge and dedication to excellence, you can rely on us to offer unmatched assistance and direction during your trip. Being a leading immigration advice firm with a focus on business and investment-based immigration to Canada, we are proud of our accomplishments. We have helped many families fulfill their aspirations of moving to this country.

Your application will be complete if you seek the advice of competent, experienced experts who have successfully designed and submitted Canada startup Visa applications. Our experts will protect your application through authorized counsel and assist you at every stage, from developing a business plan and securing funding to getting a visa approved and incorporating the business in Canada. Read  startup visa Canada success stories of our clients to be familiar with our immigration firm, and our ethics.

29 Responses
  1. Rajesh Kumar Sharma

    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.

    1. 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.

  2. Liang Wei

    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 guidance on the case. Thanks

    1. 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.

  3. Ali Soleiman Khan

    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 Startup Visa stream 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 SUVs.

    1. 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.

  4. Mike Ming

    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?

    1. 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.

  5. Sana Khan

    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

    1. 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.

  6. Hamid Nikkhah

    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

    1. 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.

  7. Nasim Alimoradi

    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 refusal rate? Thanks

    1. 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.

  8. Yang Xiao

    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

    1. 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.

  9. Priya Sharma

    Hi, we’re reviewing the work permit application under the SUV 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

    1. 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.

  10. Tran Thi Minh Thuong

    Hi, I am in Canada through the startup 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

    1. Yes, if you are extending your work permit and your family’s permits, including study permits for your family, the correct answer is “Yes.”

  11. Osman Ali

    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).  

    1. 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.

  12. Umer Farooq

    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 Canada SUV programme? 

    1. 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.

    1. 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.

  13. Hawa Hassan

    My startup visa work permit was refused. I need advise. Maybe I should appeal for reconsideration. Have we submitted more than the required amount and shown a family tie, employment, and properties as evidence of returning home?

    1. Sure, we can help. Please provide the reason for the visa rejection, the type of visa, and a brief list of evidence submitted (family ties, employment, properties).

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