Canada's Start-up Visa Program
Canada's Start-up Visa Program is aimed at successful entrepreneurs who want to set up a business in Canada either as a full or part owner.
Canada's Start-up Visa Program is aimed at successful entrepreneurs who want to set up a business in Canada either as a full or part owner. Up to five people can apply for this visa together, but each applicant must hold at least 10% of the business's internal voting rights, and the applicants' combined share of the business must exceed 50%.
Which kinds of businesses qualify for the start-up visa program?
This immigration program applies to entrepreneurs who want to start a business that Is innovative, can create jobs for Canadians and can be internationally competitive.
There are some main criteria that you and your business must meet before you are eligible for the start-up visa program.
1. Have the Support of a Designated Organization
Your start-up or new business must receive support from a designated organization before you can participate in the visa program. If your business idea is selected by a designated organization, you will receive a letter of support that you must include in your application.
2. Language Skills
Each applicant must prove that they meet or exceed the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 in either English or French in:
Speaking
Reading
Listening and
Writing
3. Your Financial Requirements
In your application, you will have to prove you have enough funds to support yourself and your family who are coming with you to Canada.
Canadian Start-Up Visa Maintenance Funds Table
| Number of family members (including main applicant) | Maintenance funds required |
| 1 | $11,913.00 CND |
| 2 | $14,853.00 CND |
| 3 | $18,260.00 CND |
| 4 | $22,170.00 CND |
| 5 | $25,145.00 CND |
| 6 | $28,359.00 CND |
| 7 | $31,574.00 CND |
5. Education Requirement
The applicant must have completed at least one year of study at a post-secondary institution.
6. Security and Medical Clearances
As with all Canadian immigration programs, the applicant and her/his family members must undergo a security clearance and a medical examination to determine whether they pose a security threat or have a health problem that might place a burden on the Canadian health care system.
