Business & Start-Up Visa
Important update: Canada’s Start-Up Visa is paused for new applicants as of January 1, 2026. We advise entrepreneurs on current options, provincial entrepreneur streams, and what to prepare for any future federal pilot.
Start-Up Visa Status (2026) & Other Business Pathways
Start-Up Visa pause: Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) program has been paused for new applicants since January 1, 2026. The limited exception for applicants who already held a valid 2025 commitment certificate (deadline June 30, 2026) has now passed. As of today, no new Start-Up Visa applications can be started. A more selective federal entrepreneur pilot has been discussed but has not launched yet.
We still help business owners and founders assess realistic alternatives — including provincial entrepreneur / business immigration streams and other employer or owner-operator pathways where eligible — and prepare documentation so you are ready when a suitable program is open to you.
We still help business owners and founders assess realistic alternatives — including provincial entrepreneur / business immigration streams and other employer or owner-operator pathways where eligible — and prepare documentation so you are ready when a suitable program is open to you.
Business Immigration Options
| Pathway | Typical Focus |
|---|---|
| Start-Up Visa | Paused for new applicants since January 1, 2026 — not currently an open intake pathway |
| Provincial Entrepreneur Programs | Entrepreneurship, investment and business operation within a participating province or territory |
| Business Owner Pathways | Business ownership, management experience and applicable investment requirements |
| Entrepreneur Experience | Relevant business ownership, management and entrepreneurial background |
What Is Included in Our Service
- ✓ Business immigration eligibility assessment
- ✓ Business and entrepreneur profile review
- ✓ Program and pathway assessment
- ✓ Business plan guidance
- ✓ Financial documentation guidance
- ✓ Supporting document preparation
- ✓ Application preparation and submission support
Our Process
01
Profile Assessment
We review your business experience, education, financial position and entrepreneurial background.
02
Program Assessment
We identify business immigration pathways that may be appropriate for your profile.
03
Business Planning
We guide you through applicable business plan and supporting documentation requirements.
04
Application Preparation
We organise the required forms and supporting evidence for the selected pathway.
05
Submission and Follow-Up
We assist with application submission and provide guidance during the processing stage.
Documents You May Need
- ✓ Valid passport
- ✓ Business ownership documents
- ✓ Business registration documents
- ✓ Business financial statements
- ✓ Personal financial documents
- ✓ Business plan where required
- ✓ Language test results where required
- ✓ Letters of support where applicable
FAQS
Business & Start-Up Visa Questions
Can I still apply for the Start-Up Visa in 2026?
+No new Start-Up Visa applications can be started under the current pause. We can review whether any other business or entrepreneur immigration option fits your profile and monitor future federal pilots.
What is the Start-Up Visa?
+The Start-Up Visa was a federal pathway for entrepreneurs with an innovative business and support from a designated organization. It has been paused for new applicants since January 1, 2026. The June 30, 2026 deadline for eligible 2025 commitment-certificate holders has passed, so new SUV files cannot be started at this time.
Do I need business experience?
+Business experience requirements vary depending on the immigration pathway. Relevant ownership, management or entrepreneurial experience may be important for certain programs.
Do I need a business plan?
+A business plan or supporting business documentation may be required depending on the selected immigration program.
Do I need English or French language skills?
+Language requirements may apply depending on the business immigration program.
Do I need to invest my own money?
+Investment, ownership and net worth requirements vary depending on the specific business immigration pathway.