Canada continues to position itself as a top destination for global entrepreneurs through its Start-Up Visa Program (SUV). In 2025, the program is more relevant than ever, offering innovative business owners a direct pathway to permanent residency (PR). If you’re a visionary entrepreneur with a scalable idea, this could be your golden ticket to building your business—and your future—in Canada.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how the Start-Up Visa Program works in 2025, who’s eligible, what’s changed, and how Eiffel Immigration can support you every step of the way.
🔍 What is the Start-Up Visa Program?
The Start-Up Visa Program is a federal immigration pathway designed to attract foreign entrepreneurs who can build innovative businesses in Canada, create jobs for Canadians, and compete on a global scale.
Unlike traditional business immigration programs, the SUV doesn’t require prior business ownership experience or massive personal investment upfront. Instead, it’s focused on innovation, scalability, and mentorship from designated Canadian organizations.
✅ Key Benefits of the Start-Up Visa Program in 2025
Direct PR pathway for entrepreneurs and their families
No minimum net worth requirement, unlike provincial nominee business streams
Open work permit option while your PR application is in process
Support from business incubators, angel investors, or venture capital firms
No management experience needed, just a viable, innovative idea
👤 Who is Eligible in 2025 for Start Up Visa Program?
To qualify under the Start-Up Visa Program in 2025, you must meet five core requirements:
Have a qualifying business
You (and up to 5 co-founders) must each hold at least 10% of the voting rights, and collectively the applicants and designated organization must hold more than 50%.
Obtain a Letter of Support from a Designated Organization
These include angel investor groups, venture capital funds, or business incubators that are approved by IRCC.
In 2025, IRCC has updated its list with more options, especially in tech and green innovation.
Meet Language Requirements
Minimum CLB 5 in either English or French (reading, writing, listening, speaking).
IELTS General or CELPIP scores are acceptable.
Prove Settlement Funds
You must show proof of funds to support yourself and your dependents, as per updated 2025 LICO (Low Income Cut-Off) guidelines.
Plan to Reside Outside Quebec
Quebec has its own business immigration program.
📈 What’s New in 2025?
Faster PR processing for start-up applicants aligned with Canada’s economic priorities like AI, cleantech, and biotech.
Greater transparency in application tracking and feedback from IRCC.
📄 Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Start-Up Visa
Develop a viable business idea
Focus on innovation, scalability, and potential market demand in Canada.
Pitch to a Designated Organization
Prepare a detailed business plan and pitch deck.
Eiffel Immigration can help you connect with organizations that match your industry.
Receive a Letter of Support
Once accepted, you’ll get a Letter of Support to submit with your PR application.
Submit Your PR Application to IRCC
Include all required documents, language test scores, and proof of funds.
Apply for an Optional Work Permit (if needed)
Start building your business in Canada while your PR is being processed.
🧭 How Eiffel Immigration Can Help
At Eiffel Immigration, we specialize in guiding entrepreneurs through every step of the Start-Up Visa journey. Our team helps with:
Business plan development tailored to Canadian standards
Connecting with designated organizations
Navigating PR application paperwork
Preparing for interviews or pitch evaluations
Ongoing legal and immigration support
Whether you’re a solo innovator or part of a founding team, we’ll help turn your idea into a Canadian success story.
📌 Final Thoughts
The Start-Up Visa Program in 2025 is a unique and powerful route to Canadian permanent residency for entrepreneurs around the globe. With the right idea, the right support, and the right immigration team behind you—your dream of building a business in Canada can become a reality.
Let Eiffel Immigration be your trusted partner in this exciting journey.