Tools · Residency by Investment
Canada Start-up Visa Eligibility Test
Answer 5 questions to check your eligibility for Canada's Start-up Visa — covering your business concept, language level, designated organisation status and proof of funds. Note: the SUV is currently paused to new applications (no new applications accepted after 31 December 2025), with a replacement entrepreneur pilot expected in 2026 — use this as a planning guide.
Do you have a viable business idea or existing startup?
How this tool works
Assess your business
The SUV requires a genuine business concept — passive investment routes do not qualify.
Check your language
A CLB 5 in English or French is a non-negotiable threshold — we flag if improvement is needed.
Designated organisation
Without a VC, Angel or Incubator letter of support, you cannot apply — we explain each option.
Get your result
See your eligibility status and the key milestones — then speak to our immigration team.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Canada Start-up Visa?
The Canada Start-up Visa (SUV) is a permanent residency programme for foreign entrepreneurs with a viable business idea. It requires a letter of support from a designated Canadian organisation — either a venture capital fund (investing CAD 200,000+), an angel investor group (investing CAD 75,000+), or a business incubator (no investment required). It is not a passive investment programme. Important: the SUV is currently paused — IRCC stopped accepting new permanent residence applications after 31 December 2025, and a replacement targeted entrepreneur pilot is expected to be announced in 2026. This tool reflects the historic SUV criteria for planning purposes.
What language level do I need for the Canada Start-up Visa?
A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 in English or French is required across all four language skills — speaking, listening, reading, and writing. This is typically demonstrated through IELTS (General Training), CELPIP, TEF Canada, or TCF Canada test results.
Do I need to already have a designated organisation commitment before applying?
Yes — when the programme was open, a letter of support from a designated VC, angel investor group, or business incubator was a mandatory prerequisite, and securing it was typically the most challenging step. Note that the SUV is currently paused to new applications (IRCC stopped accepting commitment certificates from designated organisations after 31 December 2025). Our advisers monitor the position and can advise on the expected replacement entrepreneur pilot.
How long does the Canada Start-up Visa take?
Processing times have historically been long — often 24–36 months or more after backlogs built up, which contributed to IRCC pausing the programme to new applications from 1 January 2026. Applicants with a valid prior commitment could typically obtain an interim work permit while their permanent residency application was processed. Anyone considering this route should take current advice on the expected replacement entrepreneur pilot.
Can I get Canadian citizenship through the Start-up Visa?
Yes. The SUV grants permanent residency. After 3 years of physical presence in Canada within the past 5 years (as a permanent resident), you are eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship. Canada allows dual citizenship, so you need not renounce your existing nationality.
Get specialist immigration advice
Our team can assess your full eligibility and connect you with the right immigration professionals for your situation.