IRCC paused the Start-Up Visa Program on June 30, 2026. New commitment certificates stopped after December 31, 2025, and applicants relying on a valid 2025 commitment certificate had to submit by June 30, 2026. IRCC continues to process applications accepted before the pause. This page is therefore relevant primarily to existing Start-Up Visa applicants and legacy files, not as an open pathway for new applicants.
Existing Start-Up Visa Applications
For applications already in process, eligibility and admissibility remain important throughout processing. Existing applicants should preserve records relating to the qualifying business, designated-organization support, ownership, language, settlement funds and any material changes to the venture or applicant circumstances. Some existing Start-Up Visa work-permit holders may also have extension options while permanent residence is processed, subject to current IRCC requirements.
Entrepreneur Immigration Alternatives
Entrepreneurs who cannot file a new Start-Up Visa application should assess currently available provincial business and entrepreneur pathways instead. Review Provincial Business Immigration and the current Provincial Nominee Programs before choosing a strategy.
The Start-Up Visa Program is a federal permanent residence pathway for qualifying entrepreneurs with support from a designated organization. Applicants must meet the current program requirements, including qualifying business, language and settlement-fund requirements.
Key considerations
- Support from a designated organization
- Qualifying business ownership and management requirements
- Language testing
- Settlement funds
- Admissibility and permanent residence documentation
Program intake rules and availability should be checked against current federal requirements before relying on this pathway.
Immigration criteria, document requirements and public policies can change. Advice should be based on the rules and facts applicable when you apply.