Start-up Visa Program
There is a Start-up Visa Program, which provides a pathway to Canadian immigration for innovative entrepreneurs seeking to establish businesses in Canada. ZF Canada offers expert immigration support to individuals and teams looking to launch their start-up in one of the most supportive business environments globally. Our registered advisors help with all aspects of the process, from obtaining a Letter of Support to preparation for permanent residency.
What is the Start-up Visa Program?
The Start-up Visa Program is designed to attract entrepreneurs who have the potential to build innovative companies that can compete on a global scale and create jobs for Canadians. It offers a fast track to permanent residency for candidates who meet the eligibility requirements, and is an appealing option for global entrepreneurs.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Have a qualifying business
- Get a letter of recommendation from an approved organisation (venture capital firm, angel investor group, or business incubator)
- Have English or French language skills at CLB 5 or higher
- Enough funds to support yourself, as calculated by IRCC
Qualifying Business Requirements
A business is eligible under the Start-up Visa Program if it meets the following criteria. Upon confirmation of your acceptance to a designated organization:
- Each applicant holds not less than 10% of the voting rights attached to those shares of the company.
- More than 50% of the voting rights. As you can see, both the applicant and the designated body must jointly control more than 50% of the voting rights.
When you are granted permanent residence:
- You have to manage the enterprise in Canada actively
- The business must be a Canadian-incorporated company.
- Some part of the essential activities of the business must thus occur in Canada
ZF Canada can ensure that your paperwork and business plan comply with these conditions.
Letter of Support from a Designated Organization
One of the key required elements of this program is a supporting letter from an endorsing organization. These include:
Venture capital funds: investment of a minimum of CAD 200,000 has been confirmed.
Angel Groups: need to validate an investment of CAD 75,000 or above
Seed accelerators: need to admit you into one of their programs
We help develop strong proposals together with our clients, prepare presentations, target the proper designated organization to host, and secure this essential support.
Permanent Residency and Family Sponsorship
Those who are accepted under the Start-up Visa Program are granted Canadian permanent residence. As a holder of permanent residence, you have the right to:
- Work and live anywhere in Canada
- Register for public health and education
- Will apply for Canadian citizenship when he is eligible.
Spousal and dependent children may accompany you on your application, allowing them the same privilege to rebuild their lives with you.
Supporting Your Business and Immigration Journey
At ZF Canada, we don’t just prepare immigration paperwork. We partner with entrepreneurs to co-create business plans, engage potential investors, and prepare them for incubation and growth. Our goal is to ensure that your application meets the standards of IRCC and the designated organization.
From determining your suitability to writing a comprehensive business plan and representing your application professionally, we will help ensure that each aspect of your application is clear, concise, and compelling.
Get Expert Guidance on Your Start-up Visa Application
Our experienced team of licensed immigration consultants at ZF Canada is dedicated to ensuring that entrepreneurs succeed. Whether it’s just the beginning of an idea for your company or if you already have a prototype developed and a pitch deck ready, we provide custom support to help guide you through the Canadian Start-up Visa Program.
