Canada — Start-Up Visa
Permanent residence for entrepreneurs with a Letter of Support from a designated organization: CAD 200,000 from a venture capital fund, CAD 75,000 from an angel investor group, or no investment if accepted into a business incubator. Note: as of 2026 the program is operating under a strict annual cap (designated organizations limited to 10 endorsements/year) — confirm current intake status with ICS.
About the Start-Up Visa
Permanent residence for entrepreneurs with a Letter of Support from a designated organization: CAD 200,000 from a venture capital fund, CAD 75,000 from an angel investor group, or no investment if accepted into a business incubator. Note: as of 2026 the program is operating under a strict annual cap (designated organizations limited to 10 endorsements/year) — confirm current intake status with ICS. ICS consultants help you determine whether this category is the right fit for your profile, and manage every stage of the application on your behalf.
Eligibility Information
- Meet the minimum requirements of your chosen program (age, education, language, work experience).
- Achieve the required score on an approved English or French language test.
- Have your educational credentials assessed (ECA) where required.
- Show sufficient settlement funds where applicable.
- Pass medical and security/background checks.
Required Documents
Application Process
- Free initial eligibility assessment with an ICS consultant
- Selection of the most suitable program (Express Entry, PNP, etc.)
- Document collection, ECA and language testing
- Profile submission / Invitation to Apply
- Full application submission and biometrics
- Decision, visa issuance and pre-departure guidance
Related Canada Visa Categories
Express Entry
Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades and Canadian Experience Class managed through the points-based Express Entry system.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Province-specific nomination streams for candidates who wish to settle in a particular Canadian province.
Family Sponsorship
Sponsor a spouse, partner, child, parent or grandparent for Canadian permanent residence.
Study Permit
Study at a Designated Learning Institution in Canada with a pathway to post-graduate work and PR.