Canada's Start-up Visa Program is aimed at immigrant entrepreneurs who possess the skills and potential to establish businesses in Canada (excluding Quebec) that are:

• innovative

• can generate employment opportunities for Canadians

• can compete globally.

There are two types of Start-up Visa options:

A. I have a business idea

• You can apply through the Start-up Visa Program

  Which requires you to present your qualifying start-up idea to a designated organization and obtain their support. Additionally, you must meet language requirements and have sufficient funds for settlement.

• Get a work permit while you wait

  While waiting for your permanent residence application to be processed through the Start-Up Visa Program, you may be eligible for a work permit if you can demonstrate that your business will significantly benefit Canada and you have enough funds for settlement.

B. I want to support a business

• You can apply to become a designated organization if you are a recommended member of either the Canadian Venture Capital and Private Equity Association or the National Angel Capital Organization.

• As a designated organization, you can establish your own procedures for receiving proposals from immigrant entrepreneurs and develop your own criteria to evaluate them. It's your responsibility to identify potential immigrant entrepreneurs you wish to support.