Federal Start-Up Visa

Overview of the Federal Start-Up Visa

Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program offers a direct path to permanent residence for innovative entrepreneurs with the vision and ability to build successful businesses in Canada. This program is ideal for business-minded individuals whose ideas can create jobs for Canadians and compete on a global scale.

Eligibility Requirements for the Start-Up Visa

To be eligible for the Start-Up Visa, applicants must meet four main requirements:

Business Ownership and Support: Applicants must secure a letter of support from a designated organization, such as a venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator.
– Venture Capital: Minimum investment of CAD $200,000 .
– Angel Investors: Minimum investment of CAD $75,000.
– Business Incubator: Acceptance into a business incubator program.
Ownership Requirements: Up to five individuals may apply for the Start-Up Visa as owners of the same business, but each applicant must hold at least 10% of voting rights, and together, the applicants and the designated organization must control more than 50% of the business.
Language Proficiency: Applicants must meet the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 5 in English or French for speaking, reading, listening, and writing.
Sufficient Settlement Funds: Applicants must demonstrate that they have enough funds to support themselves and their families upon arrival in Canada.

Application Process for the Start-Up Visa

Obtain a Letter of Support: The first step is to obtain a letter of support from a designated organization. This letter confirms that the organization is willing to support the applicant’s business idea and provide the necessary funding or incubation.
Submit the Start-Up Visa Application: Once the letter of support is obtained, applicants submit their PR application to IRCC, along with proof of language proficiency, settlement funds, and other supporting documents.
Medical, Security, and Background Checks: All applicants and dependents undergo health and security checks as part of the process.

Peer Review Process

In some cases, IRCC may require a peer review of the business proposal by a panel of industry experts to verify the legitimacy of the business idea and the commitment from the designated organization. This step ensures that only high-quality and viable business ideas are approved under the Start-Up Visa Program.

Benefits of the Start-Up Visa Program

The Start-Up Visa offers a unique opportunity for innovative entrepreneurs to obtain Canadian PR. Applicants have the flexibility to live and work in Canada while developing their business, with the option to apply for work permits to begin operations even before receiving PR approval.

How Lev Law Can Help

Lev Law provides comprehensive legal support throughout your Start-Up Visa journey. We help entrepreneurs:

Determine program eligibility
Connect with designated organizations
Review and strengthen business documentation
Prepare and submit a complete and compelling PR application
Apply for optional work permits if eligible

We understand the challenges of building a business while navigating immigration. Our goal is to make the process as clear, efficient, and strategic as possible.

Our overview

Why Choose LevLaw?

With years of experience and a deep understanding of Canada’s immigration laws, we are the trusted choice for those seeking expert immigration support. Our firm is known for its hands-on approach, reliable legal strategies, and commitment to delivering successful results. We are proud to serve as advocates and advisors, ensuring that each client feels supported, informed, and empowered every step of the way.

Our Mission

Founded with a passion for immigration law, LevLaw is committed to providing comprehensive and client-centered legal services. We believe that everyone deserves a fair chance at success and opportunity, and our mission is to guide our clients through the immigration process with skill, empathy, and dedication.