Visa Type

Start-up Visa Program Guide (Canada)

Canada • RESIDENCY pathway

Innovation-focused immigration pathway requiring support from a designated organization.

Last reviewed: 2026-01-30Official sources
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Key takeaways
  • Start-up Visa is for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas.
  • Applicants must secure support from a designated organization.
  • Language proficiency and settlement funds are required.
At a glance
Who the Start-up Visa is forEligibility nuancesOfficial IRCC guidance to reviewCanada visa requirements checklistDocuments and evidence (IRCC checklist)Canada visa application stepsCanada visa fees (verify before you pay)Canada processing timesCommon mistakes that cause delaysCommon misconceptionsRelated Canada visa typesNext steps
Last reviewed: 2026-01-30Sources
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Official sources referenced
Start-up Visa Program (IRCC)Application forms and guides (IRCC)IRCC feesIRCC processing times toolBiometrics information (IRCC)Medical exams (IRCC)
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Who the Start-up Visa is for

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  • Entrepreneurs with innovative, scalable business ideas
  • Founders supported by a designated organization
  • Applicants who meet language and funding requirements
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Eligibility nuances

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Eligibility depends on support from a designated organization and business ownership requirements.

You must meet language and settlement fund requirements.

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Official IRCC guidance to review

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Use the official IRCC guidance before applying for a Canada visa or permit.

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Canada visa requirements checklist

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  • Letter of support from a designated organization
  • Language test results meeting program requirements
  • Proof of settlement funds
  • Admissibility checks including biometrics and medical exams
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Documents and evidence (IRCC checklist)

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  • Letter of support and commitment certificate (if applicable)
  • Business ownership and incorporation documents
  • Language test results and settlement funds evidence
  • Identity and admissibility documents

Comparing options? Review Business Immigration and Self-Employed Persons Program before you finalize your Canada visa pathway.

Canada documents checklist
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Canada visa application steps

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  1. Secure support from a designated organization.
  2. Prepare business and ownership documentation.
  3. Submit PR application with required evidence.
  4. Complete biometrics, medicals, and follow-up requests.

If this pathway doesn’t fit, compare Business Immigration and Self-Employed Persons Program before you finalize your plan.

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Canada visa fees (verify before you pay)

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Fees vary by program and applicant type. Review IRCC’s official fee schedule before submitting. Fees include PR processing and biometrics where required.

IRCC fees
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Canada processing times

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Processing times depend on program, country of residence, and application completeness. Processing times vary by application volume and completeness.

IRCC processing times tool
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Common mistakes that cause delays

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  • Submitting applications without a valid letter of support
  • Insufficient proof of settlement funds
  • Inconsistent ownership documentation
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Common misconceptions

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  • A business idea alone qualifies without designated support.
  • You can submit the PR application before the letter of support.
  • Language results are optional.
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Next steps

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Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.

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FAQs

What is a designated organization?

Designated organizations are approved investors or incubators that can support Start-up Visa candidates.

Do I need to run the business in Canada?

Yes. You must intend to operate and grow the business in Canada.

Sources

Last reviewed: 2026-01-30

Important

VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.

Next steps

Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.

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