Canada — Start-Up Visa

Permanent residence for entrepreneurs with a Letter of Support from a designated organization: CAD 200,000 from a venture capital fund, CAD 75,000 from an angel investor group, or no investment if accepted into a business incubator. Note: as of 2026 the program is operating under a strict annual cap (designated organizations limited to 10 endorsements/year) — confirm current intake status with ICS. ICS consultants help determine whether this category fits your profile and manage every stage of the application on your behalf.

General requirements typically include: Meet the minimum requirements of your chosen program (age, education, language, work experience).; Achieve the required score on an approved English or French language test.; Have your educational credentials assessed (ECA) where required.; Show sufficient settlement funds where applicable.; Pass medical and security/background checks.. Eligibility depends on your individual circumstances — ICS offers a free assessment against the current requirements.

Commonly required documents include: Valid passport, Language test results (IELTS/CELPIP/TEF), Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), Proof of work experience (reference letters, pay slips), Proof of funds, Police clearance certificates. Exact document requirements can vary by case, so confirm your specific list with an ICS consultant before applying.

In general: Free initial eligibility assessment with an ICS consultant; then Selection of the most suitable program (Express Entry, PNP, etc.); then Document collection, ECA and language testing; then Profile submission / Invitation to Apply; then Full application submission and biometrics; then Decision, visa issuance and pre-departure guidance. Processing times and exact steps can change — ICS manages this process directly with clients so nothing gets missed.

As of the last update to this page, this program is active and accepting applications. Requirements and processing times can change, so always confirm current status with ICS or the relevant government authority before applying.