Canada’s SUV Class allows talented entrepreneurs like yourself to enter the Canadian business landscape and contribute to its vibrant economy. As you are interested in this journey, it is essential to understand the key components of the program:

• The start-up business visa (SUV) Program BenefitsIt allows successful applicants to obtain direct permanent residency status in Canada within 30 to 32 months. This status is extended to the applicant’s spouse and children under the age of 22 years old.
• A permanent resident is allowed to live, work and study anywhere in Canada without requesting further permission.
• A permanent resident can apply for Canadian citizenship if, among other conditions, he has been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days in the 5 years preceding the submission of the citizenship application.
• The Start-Up Visa program allows the entrepreneur to obtain a work permit within 2-3 months so that he/she can develop the start-up in Canada when processing for permanent residency. The spouse can apply for an open work permit simultaneously while the dependent child has access to a study permit.
• Contrary to traditional immigration programs, SUV applicants do not need to qualify for a point system based on age, education, etc. Therefore, it is also important to consider that the SUV requires no basic management experience and no educational background from the entrepreneur.
• The newly established start-up can fail, not affecting the permanent residency application.

In short, the benefits of a Start-up Business Visa in Canada

The various PR programs for investors are typically designed to attract potential business investors from around the globe to immigrate to Canada, which in turn provides benefits like:

• High standard of living.
•  Advanced healthcare and education.
•  Settle with your family and dependents.
•  Favorable investment policies.
•  Travel benefits allow you to conduct business globally.

Fast track pathway to citizenship.

 Once the immigration authorities in Canada approve your Investor Visa application, you must make the minimum investment within 30 days. Rest assured, under this program, the Canadian government guarantees and regulates the investment. After five years, the Canadian government will return the investment to the investor (without interest).

Eligibility and Requirements

To qualify for the SUV Class Visa, you need to demonstrate a viable business idea that has the potential to create jobs for Canadians and compete on a global scale. For this class, you need to meet specific criteria, which include:

• Canadian Venture Capital: You must secure a commitment from a designated Canadian venture capital fund or angel investor group to provide you with the required funding.
• Letter of Support: A letter of support from a designated organization is a crucial requirement for your application. This letter confirms that your business idea is innovative, has growth potential, and aligns with the goals of the Start-up Visa program.
• Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate your language proficiency in English or French by providing results from an approved language test, such as the IELTS or CELPIP for English or TEF for French.
• Proof of Sufficient Settlement Funds: While the Start-up Visa program does not require you to have a minimum personal net worth, you must show that you have sufficient funds to settle in Canada, cover initial living expenses, and support your business during its early stages.
• Commitment to Settle in Canada: You must also commit to residing in Canada, as your business will be actively managed from within the country. This commitment ensures that you play an active role in the growth and development of your start-up.

Here are the steps involved in the Start-up Visa Program in Canada:

Step 1: Develop a Business Idea – Identify and develop an innovative business idea that has growth potential and can contribute to the Canadian economy. Your business concept should be aligned with the goals of the Start-up Visa program, emphasizing job creation and competitiveness on a global scale.

Step 2: Secure a Commitment from a Designated Organization – Obtain a letter of support or commitment from a designated Canadian organization, whether a venture capital fund, an angel investor group, or a business incubator. This letter confirms that your business idea is viable and aligns with the program’s requirements. The designated organization must be convinced of your business’s potential for success and growth.

Step 3: Verify Eligibility and Meet Requirements – Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the Start-up Visa program. This includes demonstrating your language proficiency in either English or French, having sufficient funds to support yourself and your family in Canada, and committing to actively managing your business within the country. You’ll need to provide proof of your abilities and intentions to meet these requirements.

Step 4: Prepare and Apply – Gather all the necessary documents and information required for the application process. This will include your letter of support from the designated organization, language proficiency test results, proof of settlement funds, and other supporting documentation. Complete the application forms accurately and truthfully, ensuring that all information provided is up to date and reflective of your business idea and intentions.

Step 5: Application Review – Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by Canadian immigration authorities. They will assess whether your business idea is innovative, has potential for growth, and aligns with the objectives of the Start-up Visa program. The authorities will also verify your eligibility based on the documentation provided.

Step 6: Medical and Security Checks – As part of the application process, you, and your family members (if applicable) will need to undergo medical examinations to ensure you meet the health requirements for entry into Canada. Additionally, you’ll need to undergo security checks to ensure that you do not pose any security risks to Canada.

Step 7: Receive Approval and Confirmation – If your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation letter notifying you of your successful application. This letter will outline the conditions of your Start-up Visa, including your commitment to manage your business and reside in Canada actively.

Step 8: Obtain a Work Permit and Travel to Canada – With your confirmation of approval, you can apply for a work permit that will allow you to enter Canada. Finally, establish and manage your start-up business in Canada. The work permit will typically be valid for an initial period, after which you can apply for extensions.

Step 9: Establish and Operate Your Business – Upon arrival in Canada, you can implement your business plan and actively manage your start-up venture. Be sure to adhere to the commitments outlined in your application and contribute to the Canadian economy through job creation and business growth.

Step 10: Apply for Permanent Residency – Once your business has demonstrated its growth and success, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency in Canada through various immigration pathways, such as the Express Entry system or the Provincial Nominee Program, which can provide you with the opportunity to continue building your life and business in Canada.

The specific required documents for the Start-up Visa Program in Canada may vary based on individual circumstances and any potential updates to the program. Please note that the list of documents here is subject to change, and it’s essential to refer to the official Government of Canada website or consult with our immigration experts to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information before submitting your application. In addition, ensure that all documents are provided in the correct format and meet the specific requirements outlined by the immigration authorities.

To be eligible for Canada’s Start-up Business Class Visa Program, you must

(i) have a qualifying business,
(ii) get a letter of support from a designated organization,
(iii) meet the language requirements,
(iv) commitment to settle in Canada
(v) have proof of sufficient settlement funds.

NIVC helps our valued clients under the business investment category, which will ultimately become permanent residence status in Canada through entrepreneurship and investment.

Here is a list of combined requirements (vary case-by-case). However, most programs are more comprehensive and restrictive.

The business documents such as (i) a letter of support from a designated organization, (ii) have been and are the current owner of an existing operational business, (iii) proof of sufficient business funds, (iv) proof of funds from the designated organization, (v) requires a comprehensive business plan that satisfies government eligibility requirements, (vi) specific business experience in a specific industry or business model, and (vii) starting a business or acquiring a business. 

Personal documents (vary case-by-case) such as (i) curriculum vitae (CV) or resume, (ii) educational documents (i.e., diplomas, degrees, certificates, transcripts etc.), (iii) language proficiency requirements in English, French or both, (iv) medical examination records, (vii) passport and travel documents, (viii) police clearance certificate, (ix) proof of funds from the designated organization, (x) proof of sufficient settlement funds, (xi) recent digital passport-sized photographs, (xii) work experience documents, (xiii) other supporting documents: any other documents that support your application, such as proof of previous business ownership, patents, awards, and any other relevant qualifications. 

The first step for the service is to evaluate the candidate’s documents by the NSRIC expert team. These documents include the above information, travel documents and passport(s), background documentation, documents from your company, documents proving assurance that you will not be staying beyond the stipulated time, adequate medical insurance, photos meeting specifications, police certificates and clearances, proof of funds, and proof of language proficiency, etc.

NSRIC completes the process in three steps:

(i) initial review upon receipt of documentation,

(ii) preparing the application

(iii) meeting the final requirement and medical exam results processing.

The overall process takes 12 to 40 months on a case-by-case basis. The overall process takes up to 10 months on a case-by-case basis. Please feel free to contact us at info@nsricvisa.ca or [+1 226 271 7206 (WhatsApp)] if you have any queries.