Entrepreneurs&Start-Up Pathways
Entrepreneurs and Start-Up Pathways support immigrant founders seeking to establish innovative businesses in Canada that have the potential to create jobs for Canadians and compete on a global scale.
Under the Start-Up Visa Program, eligible entrepreneurs outside of Quebec can apply for permanent residence by securing the support of a designated Canadian organization, demonstrating sufficient settlement funds, and meeting language requirements—all without the need for a traditional employer or Labour Market Impact Assessment.
To qualify, applicants must have a qualifying business where the entrepreneurs hold significant voting rights and jointly control the company with a designated organization, obtain a letter of support and associated commitment certificate from that organization, meet minimum language benchmarks in English or French, and show they have enough funds to support themselves and any dependants after arriving in Canada. Once a valid commitment certificate is obtained, applicants must submit their permanent residence application by the deadline set by the program.
Cohen Visa advises aspiring entrepreneurs and start-up founders on eligibility criteria, documentation, investor engagement, and strategic planning to support successful Start-Up Visa applications and long-term business immigration outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Entrepreneurs & Start-Up Pathways
The Start-Up Visa Program allows eligible entrepreneurs outside of Quebec to apply for permanent residence by securing the support of a designated Canadian organization, demonstrating sufficient settlement funds, and meeting language requirements—all without the need for a traditional employer or Labour Market Impact Assessment.
Applicants must have a qualifying business where the entrepreneurs hold significant voting rights and jointly control the company with a designated organization, obtain a letter of support and associated commitment certificate from that organization, meet minimum language benchmarks in English or French, and show they have enough funds to support themselves and any dependants after arriving in Canada.
Designated organizations are venture capital funds, angel investor groups, or business incubators approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to support Start-Up Visa applicants. Applicants must obtain a letter of support and commitment certificate from one of these organizations to qualify.
Applicants must meet minimum language benchmarks in English or French. The specific level depends on the National Occupational Classification (NOC) of the intended occupation. Cohen Visa advises on eligibility criteria and documentation to support successful applications.
The federal Start-Up Visa Program applies to entrepreneurs outside of Quebec. Quebec has its own immigration programs for entrepreneurs. Cohen Visa advises on the appropriate pathway for your situation.
Applicants must demonstrate they have enough funds to support themselves and any dependants after arriving in Canada. The amount varies based on family size and is updated annually. Cohen Visa advises on documentation and strategic planning to support successful Start-Up Visa applications.