Canada Start-up
Visa Program

Canada Start-Up Visa Program

The Canada Start-up Visa connects innovative international founders with Canadian investors, enabling permanent residency while building globally scalable businesses.

Have an innovative business idea? Ready to take it global?

Canada’s Start-up Visa Program is your gateway to building your future—and your business—in one of the world’s most vibrant economies. This program is designed for ambitious entrepreneurs who can:

The Start-up Visa journey is simpler than it looks—if you start strong.
It all begins with one thing: a compelling pitch. Win the attention and confidence of a Designated Organization, and you’re one step closer to securing their support—and unlocking your path to permanent residency in Canada.

What is a Designated Organization?

These are government-approved Canadian investors, incubators, or angel groups that support promising start-ups.

You’ll need to:

The organization will also send a Commitment Certificate to the Canadian government as part of your application.

Application Caps:

Each designated organization can only support 10 group applications per year—applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. So, timing matters!

Who Can Apply?

  • Own ≥10% of voting rights when securing a sponsor

  • Your team controls >50% (you + designated orgs)

  • Once in Canada: Run your business locally (key ops stay here)

Pitch your business idea to a government-approved  (based on your business stage):

  • Angel investor groups (or) (investment of $75K+ CAD)

  • Venture capital funds (or) (investment of $200K+ CAD)
  • Business incubators (Program acceptance (no $ minimum))

Basic proficiency needed in English or French (CLB 5 in all areas - speaking, reading, writing, and listening):


  • English: IELTS or CELPIP

  • French: TEF

You must show sufficient savings to support:


  • Yourself

  • Any family members joining you
    2025 Estimates (Single Applicant):
▸ CAD $14,500 – $15,000

Smart move: Always budget 10% extra for safety!

Mandatory Checks:


  • Standard background verification

  • Valid police certificates

  • Approved medical examination

Start these early – processing times vary!

How we help

Your pitch is more than slides—it’s your shot. Our coaching meets you where you are and gets you where you need to be.

1. Initial assessment

Uncover your unique business story, challenges, and investor goals to set a clear success path.

2. Custom game plan

Craft a tailored coaching strategy designed to sharpen your pitch and align with what Designated Organizations want.

3. Practice-Refine-Win

Turn your pitch into a powerful, investor-ready story — building your confidence and increasing your chances of securing support.

Disclaimer:
Pitch Pathway is a coaching and advisory program designed to support founders in refining their business ideas and pitch presentations. We do not provide immigration advice or services. For any matters related to immigration, visa applications, or legal eligibility, please consult a licensed Canadian immigration lawyer, consultant or refer to the official resources provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Ready to

Take the first step?