Thinking of immigrating to Canada while building a globally competitive business? The Canadian Startup Visa Program (SUV) offers a direct pathway to permanent residency (PR) for entrepreneurs with an innovative idea.
Discover the full roadmap to make your Canadian immigration dream come true. This guide covers the key eligibility requirements, the full application process, and how Cantech helps you turn your startup vision into a Canadian reality.
What is the Canadian Startup Visa Program?
This program was launched by the Canadian government in 2012 to attract global innovators. The Startup Visa Program allows entrepreneurs to establish their business in Canada and gain permanent residency.
It’s designed for people with:
- A scalable, innovative business idea
- International market potential
- A plan to create jobs and contribute to Canada’s economy
With the SUV, you and your entire family can settle in Canada and benefit from world-class healthcare and education.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for the Canadian SUV Program, you must meet the following criteria:
- Have an innovative and scalable business idea
- Secure support from a designated organization (like an incubator, Angel investor or venture capital group)
- Demonstrate language proficiency in English or French (minimum CLB 5 level)
- Show proof of funds to support yourself and your family
- Pass medical, criminal, and security checks
Don’t have an idea yet? Cantech will help you develop one and match you with the right opportunity.
Step-by-Step: The Canadian Startup Visa Process
Here’s how Cantech helps you every step of the way:
Step 1: Free Consultation
We assess your background, education, and eligibility.
Step 2: Business Concept Creation
If you don’t have an idea, we help you develop an innovative, scalable business plan that aligns with Canadian priorities and your background.
Step 3: Company Incorporation
Your business is officially incorporated in Canada.
Step 4: Letter of Support
Cantech works with designated incubators, angel investors and VC groups to secure your letter of support which is a required document for your PR and work permit applications.
Step 5: Permanent Residency Application
Once your Letter of Support is issued, we file your PR application under the Startup Visa stream.
Step 6: Optional Work Permit Application
If you are deemed to be an essential member of the project team, we may apply for a temporary open work permit and study permits based on your Letter of Support and PR application, allowing you and your family to come to Canada and begin building your business while your permanent residence application is being processed.
Step 7: Arrival in Canada
You and your family arrive in Canada to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey once the work permit is approved.
Step 8: Cantech Ongoing Support
We offer continued business compliance support, business promotion, and growth planning so your startup thrives.
Step 9: Canadian PR Approval
You and your family may receive Canadian permanent residency within 18-24 months with priority incubators.
What Cantech Provides
At Cantech, we’ve helped over 150 entrepreneurs succeed with a 100% approval rate. We provide:
- Tailored business idea development
- Matching with Enhanced Designated Organizations
- Business incorporation and compliance
- Immigration applications
- Family relocation support
- Fast-track processing via our trusted network
Bonus Benefits for Families
When you apply through the Startup Visa:
- Your children receive study permits and can attend public school for free
- Post-secondary education is available at domestic tuition rates
- Free public healthcare is available for you and your family
💼 Ready to Launch Your Startup – and Your Future?
✅ Book your consultation today to find out how to qualify for the Canadian Startup Visa Program and begin your immigration journey.
