Start-Up Visa Canada – The Complete SUV Guide
The Start up Visa Canada attracts foreign entrepreneurs who want to establish innovative businesses in Canada. By creating jobs and a successful company, applicants and their families can gain permanent residency through business immigration. The program seeks immigrant entrepreneurs with the skills and potential to build innovative businesses, creating job opportunities for Canadian and global competitiveness. If you have a unique business idea which can get support from designated organizations, you may have a chance to immigrate to Canada permanently. The SUV program also benefits up to five business partners who relocate to Canada permanently to establish a Canadian company. They must meet additional program requirements.
This article will provide an overview of the Canada Startup Visa program, including eligible and non-eligible applicants, the application process, after applying, arriving in Canada, advantages and disadvantages, temporary work permits, and costs.
Start-Up Visa Canada requirements
Eligibility for the Start-up Visa Canada extends to individuals who meet specific criteria. Those who can apply for the program include:
1. Possess a qualifying business
Your business must fulfill several conditions to be considered as a qualifying business under the Canada Start-up Visa Program:
- When you get a commitment from a designated organization, each applicant (up to 5 people) should individually hold at least 10% shares of the corporation connected to the voting rights.
- The applicants and designated organizations must hold over 50% of the voting rights jointly.
- Upon obtaining permanent residence, you must actively manage the business from within Canada and ensure that a significant portion of its operations occur there.
- The business must be legally incorporated in Canada.
These conditions define a qualifying business under the Start-up Program, and it is recommended to consult official government sources or seek professional advice to stay updated on any specific requirements or changes to the program.
2. Provide a letter of support from a designated organization
To apply for the Start-up Program, you need a letter of support from designated organizations like venture capital funds, angel investor groups, or business incubators. These organizations play a crucial role and have specific requirements and procedures. You must convince them that your business idea is worth supporting, which may involve pitching in person or submitting a detailed business plan or concept. Once you secure their support, they provide a letter of support and a commitment certificate. These documents are essential for your application, as they demonstrate endorsement and are evaluated for approval. The minimum investment depends on the source: $200,000 from a venture capital fund, $75,000 from an angel investor group, or no financial investment requirement from a business incubator if you are accepted into their program.
3. The language requirements
Proficiency in English (IELTS score for start-up visa), French, or both languages is crucial for the success of your business in Canada. You must undergo a language test conducted by an approved agency and submit the results and your permanent residency application for it to be processed. Meeting the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 in writing, listening, reading, and speaking in English or French is necessary, equal to an upper-intermediate language skill level (s). You must complete the minimum language skills to avoid refusing your PR application.
4. Enough required level of investment
The Government of Canada does not financially assist new immigrants under the Start-up program. As part of your application, you must provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your dependents upon arrival in Canada. It is important to note that you cannot borrow this money from another person. The specific amount of funds required depends on the size of your family, and these amounts are updated annually.
Each applicant and their family must have sufficient funds, at a minimum, between $13,757 – $36,407, depending on the size of the applicant’s family, to settle in Canada. Plus, they have access to capital funds to begin your business in Canada, usually around $150,000 at a minimum per applicant.
Who should not apply for Start-up Visa Canada?
The Start-Up program for Canada visa is not suitable for foreign business owners with limited capital to invest in their start-up ventures in Canada. Despite any claims or assumptions, having a well-capitalized business is crucial to obtaining support from Designated Organizations under the program. It is unrealistic to expect Canadian venture capitalists (VCs) or Angel investors to back your business and provide the necessary initial funding solely based on a brilliant idea. VCs or angel investors typically seek established companies with a track record of success and significant sales revenue before investing. Therefore, if you are an entrepreneur with an excellent product or service but have limited funds (less than $150,000) to expand your business, there may be better options than the SUV program. However, it’s essential to explore other available alternative pathways.
How to apply for a Start-Up Visa?
Applying online is now a mandatory Start-Up Visa requirement. here are the highlights of the process:
- Create an online account on the IRCC portal for Permanent Residence Application
- Gather all required documents
- Complete digital forms and electronically sign
- Submit individual applications for each partner
- Pay the application fee(s)
- Biometrics appointment
- Medical examination and police clearance (if required)
- Attend an interview (if necessary)
- Selection Factors
- Evaluation Process
- Wait for a decision
- Canada visa application approval or refusal
How to Get a Letter of Support for Canada's Start-up Visa Program
One of the most important steps in your application process is obtaining a Letter of Support for Canada’s Start-up Visa Program. You must win the backing of a designated group to obtain a Letter of Support. Here is a detailed explanation of how to accomplish it:
1. Identify Potential Designated Organizations
One of the most critical steps in the application procedure is to acquire a Letter of Support for Canada’s Start-up Program. This letter is often sent by a specified organization that has agreed to fund your business and support your application, like a venture capital fund, an angel investor group, or a business incubator. Getting a Letter of Support involves the following steps:
2. Contact Designated Organizations
Reach out to these groups and let them know you’re interested in their help and the Startup Visa Program. You can do this by sending emails, making phone calls, attending networking events where these groups are present, participating in business incubation programs, or seeing startup pitches.
3. Pitch Your Business Idea
Make a strong start-up pitch in advance. Explain your business’s idea, its potential for expansion and innovation, and how it fits the organization’s goals. Highlight the financial gains your company will make for Canada.
4. Build Relationships
It is crucial to establish connections with potential investors and designated organizations. Participate in industry gatherings, join incubators or accelerators for startups, and aggressively network with Canadian businesspeople. Your chances of obtaining support can be improved by developing trust and rapport.
5. Submit a Business Proposal
Work closely with the selected group to create a thorough business proposal if you’ve found one interesting. This request for information should include your business idea, the investment they will make, and their support of your business.
6. Obtain a Letter of Support
After reviewing and accepting your proposal, the designated organization will issue an official Letter of Support for your Start-up Visa application. This letter assures them they will return your application and invest in your company.
It’s crucial to remember that not all applicants will be successful in the Letter of Support application process, which might be tough. Gaining access to this vital file for your Start up Visa application depends on developing solid connections, having a thoughtful company plan, and demonstrating the possibility for commercial success in Canada.
List of Designated Organizations
To obtain your letter of support, you may need to either complete a startup development program or receive funds from the approved organization you work with in exchange for equity in your business. One of the most critical needs for the SUV is this. One or more venture capital funds, angel investor groups, or business incubators must provide you with a Commitment Certificate and Letter of Support. Here is a complete list of the designated organizations.
Canada Startup Visa Processing Time
Foreigners who wish to enter Canada as Businesspeople ask about the Canada startup visa processing time. Each application has a different process and timeframe. IRCC website shows how long it took IRCC to process most applications for each application type in the past. SUV CIC Processing times can vary depending on factors such as the IRCC office’s workload if the applicant(s) need to be interviewed by an IRCC officer and a medical and background check. If you’ve already applied, the general guidelines state that the waiting period for the final decision on an SUV application, on average, is 37 months.
The Benefits and drawbacks of the Canadian StartUp Visa
The Start-Up Visa Canada program aims to entice foreign business owners with creative ideas to establish and grow their enterprises in Canada. The application has certain downsides in addition to its many benefits. The Canada startup visa advantages and disadvantages are p are as follows:
Benefits of the Program
- Direct pathway to Permanent Residency for entrepreneurs of any nationality.
- No restrictions on business activities
- Opportunity to relocate with a work permit during application evaluation.
- Allows partnerships of up to 5 individuals with a minimum ownership of 10%.
- No Investment Required
- Pathway to Citizenship
Drawbacks of the Program
- High competition for support from designated organizations, making funding and resources hard to secure
- Lengthy processing times for permanent residency (3 to 5 years) including biometric data submission.
- Capital investments and a well-developed business model are often required, posing financial challenges
- Moderate risk of refusals or delays during the permanent residence stage.
In conclusion, the Canadian Start-Up program provides inventive business owners with a route to permanent residency. Still, it also has its share of drawbacks, such as stiff competition, the possibility of business failure, and the difficulties of migrating to a foreign nation. Before pursuing this immigration option, prospective candidates should carefully consider these concerns and seek legal and business advise.
How to get a start-up visa for a Canada work permit?
A temporary Start-Up visa (SUV) class work permit falls under the International Mobility Program. Only individuals who have obtained a Commitment Certificate and Letter of Support from a designated entity are eligible to apply. The designated entity must indicate that you are deemed “essential” and provide urgent business justifications for early entry to Canada before obtaining permanent residency. Plus, you must demonstrate sufficient funds to meet the low-income threshold for your family’s financial support over 52 weeks (about 12 months), ensuring these funds are separate from your investment capital. The, you can proceed with your work permit application if you meet the eligibility criteria.
The work permit granted under this program is specifically for working as an entrepreneur. It is valid for one year, with the possibility of an extension based on the individual evaluation of the permanent residence application. Eligible applicants may also be able to bring their spouse or common-law partner and dependent children to Canada.
Remember that the Commitment Certificate is valid for six months from the date of issuance, and regardless of whether you choose to apply for a work permit or not, you must submit your application for permanent residency before it expires.
What is the Canada StartUp Visa Cost?
Several variables, such as the size of your family, the number of candidates, and your unique situation, might affect the Canada startup visa cost. The main expenses connected with the Start-Up program in Canada are broken down as follows:
Government Fees
The current fee is $1,575 for the principal applicant. Additional fees apply for accompanying family members, spouse $1,040, dependent child $150.
Biometrics
Biometrics Fee of $85 per person or $170 per family.
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)
The Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) must be paid after the application for permanent residence is approved and before receiving the permanent resident visa. The RPRF is currently $500 per person.
Language Testing
The cost of the IELTS score for start-up visa can vary but is typically around $300 to $450 per test in an approved language test center.
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
The cost of an ECA can vary depending on the organization you choose to assess your credentials but typically ranges from $200 to $400.
Medical Examination and Police Clearance
A medical checkup and police clearance from any nation you’ve resided in for more than six months may be required of you. Depending on where you live and other factors, the price of these criteria may change.
Travel Fees
If you must attend interviews or biometrics appointments, you must factor in travel costs to and from these locations.
Business Investment
You need an investment commitment from a recognized Canadian venture capital fund, angel investor organization, or business incubator to be eligible for the program. The applicant’s required investment can vary depending on the organization giving the funds. However, it usually falls between $200,000 and $400,000.
Business plan
The cost of Business Plan Preparation can vary depending on the specific circumstances of your start-up. For innovative, scalable start-ups generating $400K+ in revenues per year, the estimated fees ranges from $3,000 to $5,000. For businesses that do not meet the above requirements, the estimated cost can be $100,000 or more. This higher cost includes expenses related to market research, validating assumptions in the Canadian market, and generating initial traction for your business.
Business Execution
The cost of a Start-Up Visa business plan execution in Canada can vary widely depending on the nature of the business and industry. While no fixed amount is specified, setting aside at least $100,000 or more per applicant is recommended to cover the operational expenses of your start-up venture while waiting for permanent residence. These costs may include company building, office space, equipment, marketing, hiring employees, research and development, and other operational expenditures. It is essential to carefully plan and budget for these fees to ensure the successful execution and growth of your business in Canada.
Fees Charged by Designated Organizations
Designated Organizations charge different fees. Incubators typically charge $40,000 or more per company, while Angel Investors require fees of $35,000 or more per company. Venture Capital Funds have fees of $50,000 or more per company. These fees are associated with the support and services these organizations provide to help facilitate the establishment and growth of your innovative business in Canada.
Legal Fees
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) and Canadian lawyers charge typically amounts to approximately $20,000 per applicant. These fees cover legal services provided by experienced RCIC to assist applicants throughout the application process, ensuring compliance with Canadian immigration regulations and providing guidance and support to maximize the chances of visa approval. It’s important to note that the actual Canada startup visa cost may vary depending on individual circumstances, the complexity of the case, and the specific legal services required.
What is the Canada Startup Visa success rate?
IRCC published specific statistics regarding the startup visa Canada success rate from 2014 to 2020 that were readily available upon request of any individual. The success rate for any immigration program 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 SUV approval 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%.
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 |
It’s essential for applicants to thoroughly review the SUV program requirements and guidelines and ensure that they meet all IRCC eligibility criteria before applying for the Start-Up Visa program. Plus, seeking legal immigration advice can help applicants navigate the application process and avoid common pitfalls that may lead to a Canada visa refusal.
What are the main reasons for a Canada Start-up Visa refusal?
There are various phases to applying for a Startup Visa in Canada. Any of these phases could suffer if you make a mistake, refusing your application at the end. Lack of Ownership Stake, Incomplete Application, Financial Inadequacy, and Language Proficiency are primary reasons for a Start-Up refusal. The IRCC statistics show these are the common reasons for a Canada Start up Visa Refusal.
Permanent Resident Refusal Grounds under the Start-Up program from 2013 to October 2020 | ||||||
2014 | 2015 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 (Jan-Oct) | |
A11(1) | 0 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
A11.2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
A12(2) | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
A16(1) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
A40(1) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
A41(a) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
MI SUD-12(1) – ability to become economically established in Canada | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
MI SUD-2(2)(a)(i) – a commitment from a designated organization | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
MI SUD-2(2)(b) – language proficiency | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
MI SUD-2(2)(d) – available funds | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
MI SUD-2(5) – Improper Purpose under Ministerial Instructions | 0 | 0 | 9 | 15 | 4 | 0 |
MI SUD-6(3)(g) – Multiple Applicant under same commitment | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
MI SUD-6(4)(g) – Improper Commitment from Designated Organization | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
MI SUD-7(1)(b) – Not Qualifying Business | 1 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
MI SUD-9(2) – Designated Organization did not make a proper assessment | 1 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
R10(1)(a) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
R89 – Improper Fees | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 12 | 0 |
R98(1) – Not Falling under Regulation | 0 | 0 | 0 | 25 | 39 | 9 |
R98(5) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Grand Total | 5 | 7 | 22 | 50 | 63 | 15 |
Conclusion
The Canada Start-up Visa program provides foreign entrepreneurs with a valuable opportunity to establish innovative businesses in Canada while working towards permanent residency and contributing to the country’s economic growth and innovation ecosystem. Meeting eligibility requirements, securing support from designated organizations, and successfully navigating the application process are essential steps for entrepreneurs to benefit from this program. The application process involves:
- Preparing a pitch deck or business plan
- Applying to a designated organization for assessment
- Signing an agreement and fulfilling fee payments if approved
- Obtaining a letter of support from the designated organization(s)
- Applying for permanent residency and temporary work permit (If needed)
Canada Start Up Visa FAQs
What happens if a business fails and the immigration has proceeded through the Start up Visa Program?
You can maintain your Canadian permanent residency status even if your company fails after you move to Canada on a Start-Up program.
What happens if an applicant receives investment support from more than one designated organization?
Receiving funding from multiple venture capital funds or angel investor organizations is known as a Syndication. In that case, all investment companies involved must be identified. IRCC will accept only one commitment certificate and one letter of support from an SUV business group. If a designated venture capital fund and a qualified angel group participate, the minimum investment required is $200,000. If there is at least one recognized angel group but no approved venture capital fund, the minimum total investment must be $75,000 in your company.
Do I have to invest my money to apply through the Start up Visa Program?
There is no requirement that you invest any of your own money. The minimum required investment is from a designated venture capital fund or angel investor organization. Instead, you may require a considerable investment to receive assistance from them.
What is the Peer review process?
Upon receiving an application, IRCC conducts a thorough review to ensure all required forms, fees, and supporting documents have been submitted. If further information is needed, a peer review may be requested. The process of peer review aims to protect against fraud and ensure that your actions and those of the applicant comply with industry standards. If a peer review is necessary, IRCC will notify the applicant that their application is being forwarded for a peer review conducted by undisclosed industry experts.
Various aspects are assessed if applicable, including the organization’s diligence, commitment terms, company formation, ownership verification, business strategy viability, scalability potential, and incubator recognition. Concerns may result in a procedural fairness letter requesting additional information for resolution. Failure to address concerns may lead to application rejection. Peer review findings contribute to the final decision alongside other application data.
Can I apply to the Start up Visa program without support from a designated organization?
No, support from a designated organization is mandatory for the Start up Visa program. You must secure a commitment from one of the designated organizations to apply.
Can I work in Canada while my Startup application is being processed?
You can apply for a temporary work permit to start working in Canada while your Startup application is being processed.
What happens after permanent residency approval through the Startup program?
After obtaining permanent residency, you can establish and manage your business in Canada. You will also access various benefits and services available to Canadian permanent residents.
Is there a minimum investment requirement for the Startup Visa program?
Unlike other business immigration programs, the Start-up Visa program has no specific minimum investment requirement. However, applicants are expected to demonstrate the ability to support themselves, their families, and their businesses in Canada.
Can multiple entrepreneurs immigrate to Canada together under the Startup program?
Yes, the Start up Visa program allows multiple entrepreneurs to apply as a team, provided each team member obtains a letter of support from a designated organization.
Is Canada known for its startup friendly?
Canada provides an exceptional environment for launching a business. With a robust economy, a supportive business ecosystem, and a pool of talented professionals, it offers an ideal destination for innovative business. Canada is a prime choice if you seek a secure and steady country to establish your venture.
How Can Arnika Visa Help With SUV Application?
At Arnika Visa, we assist you in determining the best course of action for obtaining a TRV (Temporary Resident Visa) or PR (Permanent Residency) to fulfill your immigration eligibility. We handle everything, from filling out immigration forms to assisting you with supporting documents. To improve your chances of startup visa Canada success rate, we give you expert guidance and a personalized supporting documents checklist. Finally, we submit your application to IRCC Canada on your behalf as your authorized immigration consultant (RCIC).
Our recommendations, advice, and help will support your visa application procedure. Our RCIC and his trained expert staff are skilled at helping customers with visa applications. We will carefully review, draft, and complete Your visa application paperwork. We provide you with the following:
- Detailed advice on improving your chances of getting a Canada visa.
- Ensure you provide the IRCC visa officer with financial information to reassure them that you have the resources necessary to go to Canada, including that of your designated organization.
- We will review your travel history and supporting documentation to decide how to present your visa application and what to emphasize when you submit it.
If you follow our guidelines, you will have a greater chance of getting your visa approved than if you applied for it independently. The first step in learning how the RCIC can assist you is to fill out the online assessment form, which asks for details about your career, education, and personal history.
Unfortunately, my Canadian visa application was rejected on December 26. Now, I am looking for the right solution, and on Google, I came across Arnika Visa’s website and an article about seven fantastic options to appeal a Canadian Visa refusal. Thank you, Mr. Eslami, who wrote a complete article. Now, as one of the solutions, I am looking to take my refused visa application to the federal court for judicial review with the help of a Canadian lawyer. I contacted many Canadian law firms to see if my case is worth taking to court and defending and the associated cost.
Interestingly, without verifying the submitted case, most Canadian immigration lawyers say they will take it to court and get the settlement notice from IRCC quickly. I will get a visa after that. Mr. Eslami’s opinion is important to me, whether this claim is valid and how to evaluate such a claim. I appreciate any help you can provide.
The first step is to make a detailed assessment of the reasons for Canada startup visa refusal. Reviewing the case by an RCIC or Canadian lawyer to make sure that you submitted a solid visa application to determine whether your refusal was unfair or unreasonable. Unfortunately, many Canadian lawyers claim they can settle the case in federal court, but it is untrue. The only measure you can take is to check the previous cases of lawyers in the federal court by searching the names of lawyers on the Canlii website. First, check the lawyers you want to hire, and if they have had similar successful cases, you can trust and delegate your case to them; otherwise, look for a Canadian lawyer with knowledge in the field of rejected Canada startup visas. Reza Eslami
Link to Canlii’s website article
https://arnikavisa.com/canlii-canada-successful-immigration-court-cases/
If money is fine, what is the best and most assured way to obtain PR in Canada? Start-up visa Canada or other Canada investor visas? Thank you kindly!
Hi, one of the best and most reliable pathways to immigrate to Canada for permanent residency is the Alberta Startup Visa (if you have graduated in the last ten years) and, otherwise, I recommend the Entrepreneur Immigration Canada PNP (Canada’s provincial business immigration program), Reza Eslami.
Hi, I recently discovered that a long-time Canadian friend in Ontario, Toronto, is leaving his job to start a new business I own and run in my home country. He asked if I’d be interested in helping him get things up and running as a 50/50 partner. Hi is looking at a $100,000 to $150,000 investment and a full-time job. Is there any opportunity for me to immigrate to Canada and get PR and citizenship? Is it better to buy a franchise in Canada or start a business in Canada? The Canada Startup Visa could be better for this scenario or the C11 Work permit, but I would like your feedback. Thank you!
Exploring a business visitor visa is a wise approach for initial exploration. Collaborate with your friend, assess the business landscape, and consult immigration professionals to understand your options for permanent residency and citizenship in Canada. This strategic planning will enhance your chances for a successful and fulfilling immigration journey. Best wishes!
Hi, I wanted to learn more about how to address the concerns and re-apply for the SUV optional WP that was just refused today. I have a letter of support from an incubator. All documents were in line with the WP, yet they refused my application because of the Purpose of the visit and financial ties to the country. I have had three prior refusals for a Visit Visa to Canada. However, I have often visited the US, UK, and EU for holidays and business. What do you suggest I do now? Thanks
To address the SUV work permit refusal, carefully review the refusal letter, clarify and detail your travel’s purpose, bolster financial ties evidence, and emphasize the new supportive additional documents and information. Highlight positive travel history. We suggest that you seek an Expert RCIC guidance who specializes in Canada Startup visa refusal cases. If you have any more questions, feel free to contact Arnika Visa. Thanks
Hello, there are many advertisements on social media from immigration firms that claim that by giving $75K to $100K and being a member of Canada start-up visa groups, we can easily get permanent residence in Canada. Is that true? Grateful
Hello, thank you for your comments. Be cautious of claims promising easy PR through financial contributions. The Canada Start-up Visa Program requires a genuine business commitment, not just a monetary investment. I recommend verifying the legitimacy of such offers and consulting with a licensed immigration professional (RCIC) for accurate guidance.
Hi, I’m a 51-year-old Pakistani citizen who has been doing business for over 22 years. I am currently running businesses in South Africa and France. I’m interested in establishing a business in Canada for a startup visa or PNP. How can you help me? Thanks
As an RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, R710241), we can provide legal assistance for your Canadian business aspirations. We will evaluate your eligibility for the Canadian business Immigration stream, guide you through the application process, and ensure compliance with immigration laws. Our expertise includes evaluating your business experience and creating a tailored strategy to enhance your chances of success in establishing a business in Canada. Please contact us to discuss your specific situation and create a customized plan to achieve your goals.
I have imported used automobiles, tires, and parts from Japan and sold them in Southern Africa and the UAE for 30 years. I’m interested in opening a dealership in Canada. Does it qualify for a start up visa application? How can you help me with it? Thanks
Your extensive experience in the automotive industry can be valuable for a startup visa application. We can provide comprehensive support, from preparing the necessary documentation to navigating the application process, ensuring all required documents are prepared, and highlighting the significant economic benefits your business could bring to Canada. Let’s schedule a consultation to discuss your plans and develop a strategy for a successful business visa application.
We are looking forward to assisting you!
I have my company in my home country and am looking to relocate to Canada as an entrepreneur; I have found that I am eligible for three Canadian immigration programs: a C11 work permit, an ICT work permit, and a Startup visa. Please compare the processing time for me with the positive and negative sides of each and tell me which is the best regarding the timeline to settle in Canada quickly.
The processing time for Canadian immigration business programs can vary based on individual circumstances and workload at immigration offices. However, generally speaking:
C11 Work Permit:
This is a standard work permit. Processing times are typically quicker, but it does not lead to permanent residency on its own. If your goal is a long-term settlement, this might not be the most direct route.
ICT Work Permit (Intra-Company Transfer): If you’re moving within your company, this could be faster than other options. However, it may not be suitable if you’re looking for permanent residency as it is a temporary permit.
Startup Visa:
While the processing time for a startup visa may be longer than the work permits, it offers a direct path to permanent residency. If settling in Canada permanently is your primary goal, the Startup Visa program provides a clear pathway for entrepreneurs.
Recommendation:
If your priority is a quick settlement with the possibility of long-term residency, the C11 or ICT work permits might be faster. However, if you are looking for a more stable and permanent solution, the Startup Visa is likely the better choice, providing a clear pathway to permanent residency in Canada.
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.
I am the franchise owner and operation manager of one of the technical weekly newspapers in India. In addition to that, I have been active in two registered companies and institutions in my professional field for the past thirty years. As a professional novelist, authoring numerous books and publishing them by multiple private and public and private publishers for at least the past decade, I have made a living only through my writing income. In addition to my writing job, I have created a website where I posted first-hand historical documents. That site is also profitable, and I aim to make it bilingual soon. I am considering establishing a similar company in Canada according. Please guide me on the best way to startup visa immigration to Canada with my conditions. Thanks
Consider applying for a Canada Startup Visa. Your extensive experience as a franchise owner, author, and website creator aligns well with the requirements. Develop a comprehensive business plan for your proposed company. Consult with a Canadian immigration lawyer or consultant for personalized guidance on the application process.
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 Startup 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 SUVs.
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 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? 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 start up visa applicants announced last year? 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 Start-Up 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 SUV 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.”