Start-Up Visa (SUV) - Federal Entrepreneurial Investor Program

The Start-Up Visa (SUV) program, Canada’s federal entrepreneurship immigration initiative, was launched as a pilot program back in 2013. After five years of stable operation, it became a permanent immigration program on March 31, 2018. Compared to other similar programs, it has gained popularity due to its low applicant requirements, fast processing times, and high approval rates. Furthermore, this program offers a straightforward path to permanent residency without requiring active participation in business management during the application process, providing applicants with more freedom and convenience before obtaining their status.

 

Program Advantages:

  • The fastest immigration program to obtain permanent residency (Maple Leaf Card) across Canada.
  • Lower application costs than all other investment immigration programs.
  • No personal tax review required; there are no age restrictions, allowing applicants as old as 65 to apply.
  • No need to participate in business operations during the processing period.

Key Points of the Program:

  • Unlike other entrepreneurial or business owner programs, the SUV is designed for immigrant entrepreneurs with the skills and potential to establish a business in Canada. It requires innovation, global competitiveness, and the ability to create jobs in Canada. The most crucial aspect is that your business idea or venture must receive support from one or more of the following designated entities:
  1. Venture capital funds
  2. Angel investor groups
  3. Business incubators

Application Requirements:

  • Background in business ownership, management, technical fields, economics, finance, or related areas.
  • English proficiency at CLB 5, which equates to IELTS scores of Listening 5, Speaking 5, Reading 4, and Writing 5.
  • A letter of support from a designated entity.
  • Sufficient funds to settle in provinces outside of Quebec.