Startup Visa

Startup Visa

The Start-Up Visa Program offers a direct pathway to permanent residency for entrepreneurs who can secure support from a designated venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator in Canada. This program is ideal for individuals with high-potential business ideas that can compete on a global scale and generate employment within Canada.

At Kahlon Law Office, we specialize in assisting entrepreneurs who aspire to establish and expand their businesses in Canada through the Start-Up Visa Program. This federal immigration program is designed to attract talented individuals with innovative business ideas that have the potential to contribute to Canada’s economy and create employment opportunities.

What are the key eligibility requirements for the Start-Up Visa program?

To qualify for the Start-Up Visa Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Qualifying Business:
    • The applicant must hold at least 10% of the total voting rights in the business.
    • Together with the designated organization, the applicant and other owners must control more than 50% of the total voting rights.
    • The business must be actively operated from within Canada upon approval.
  2. Support from a Designated Organization:
    • Entrepreneurs must secure a Letter of Support from a designated venture capital fund (minimum $200,000 investment), an angel investor group (minimum $75,000 investment), or a business incubator.
    • The designated organization will also submit a Commitment Certificate to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
  3. Language Proficiency:
    • Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English or French by achieving a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 in all four areas: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
  4. Proof of Funds:
    • Applicants must show sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their family upon arrival in Canada. The required amount varies based on the number of family members.
  5. Admissibility Requirements:
    • All applicants must pass medical examinations, security checks, and background verifications before being granted permanent residency.

What is the application process for the Start-Up Visa program?

  1. Secure a Commitment:
    • Entrepreneurs must pitch their business ideas to a designated venture capital firm, angel investor group, or business incubator and secure their support.
  2. Meet the Program’s Requirements:
    • Ensure that all eligibility criteria are met, including language proficiency and proof of funds.
  3. Submit the Application:
    • Complete and submit the Start-Up Visa application, including all necessary forms, business documentation, and supporting evidence.
  4. Processing & Work Permit Option:
    • While waiting for permanent residency approval, eligible applicants may apply for a work permit to start operating their business in Canada.
  5. Approval & Permanent Residency:
    • Upon successful assessment, applicants receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can officially relocate to Canada.

What is the application process for the Start-Up Visa program?

  1. Secure a Commitment:
    • Entrepreneurs must pitch their business ideas to a designated venture capital firm, angel investor group, or business incubator and secure their support.
  2. Meet the Program’s Requirements:
    • Ensure that all eligibility criteria are met, including language proficiency and proof of funds.
  3. Submit the Application:
    • Complete and submit the Start-Up Visa application, including all necessary forms, business documentation, and supporting evidence.
  4. Processing & Work Permit Option:
    • While waiting for permanent residency approval, eligible applicants may apply for a work permit to start operating their business in Canada.
  5. Approval & Permanent Residency:
    • Upon successful assessment, applicants receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can officially relocate to Canada.

Why should you choose Kahlon Law Office for your Start-Up Visa application?

Navigating the Start-Up Visa Program requires expertise in business immigration laws and strategic planning. At Kahlon Law Office, we provide comprehensive legal support to entrepreneurs by:

  •  Guiding clients through the application process to avoid delays or refusals.
  •  Assisting in securing Letters of Support from designated organizations.
  •  Ensuring compliance with immigration and business regulations.
  •  Providing tailored solutions for each entrepreneur’s unique business model.

If you are an entrepreneur looking to bring your innovative venture to Canada, contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your options under the Start-Up Visa Program