From Student Visa to Permanent Residency: Exploring Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program

Posted on

International students in Canada often begin their journey with a study permit, but many want to stay beyond graduation to build their careers and future. While popular options like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Express Entry are widely known, Canada also offers an innovative business immigration pathway — the Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program.

This program is designed for entrepreneurs who have the vision and skills to build businesses in Canada that are innovative, create jobs for Canadians, and can compete globally. For international students with strong ideas and entrepreneurial drive, the Start-Up Visa may be a pathway from temporary status to permanent residency (PR).

Why Consider the Start-Up Visa as a Student?

  • Direct Path to PR: Unlike the PGWP or employer-specific work permits, the SUV Program is a direct route to Canadian permanent residency.
  • Support for Innovation: Students with entrepreneurial ideas can connect with designated venture capital funds, angel investor groups, or business incubators approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
  • Work While Waiting: Eligible applicants can apply for a temporary work permit to launch their business while the PR application is being processed.

Basic Eligibility for the Start-Up Visa

To qualify, applicants generally need to meet four main requirements:

  1. Qualifying Business: You must hold at least 10% of the voting rights in the corporation, and together with the designated organization, more than 50%.
  2. Letter of Support: A designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator) must commit to supporting your business idea.
  3. Language Proficiency: You must meet minimum language requirements in English or French (CLB 5).
  4. Settlement Funds: Applicants must show they have enough money to settle in Canada.

Transitioning from Student Visa to Start-Up Visa

Many international students graduate with innovative projects, research ideas, or entrepreneurial skills developed during their studies. Here’s how a student may transition:

  • Complete studies and identify a scalable business idea.
  • Seek support from a designated organization to secure a letter of support.
  • Apply for the Start-Up Visa and, if needed, a temporary work permit.
  • Work on building the business while waiting for the PR decision.

This pathway allows students to stay in Canada not just as workers, but as entrepreneurs contributing to Canada’s economy.

Why Work with an Immigration Lawyer?

The Start-Up Visa program has strict eligibility requirements and requires significant preparation to secure organizational support. Immigration lawyers at NPZ Law Group (Visaserve) can help students and entrepreneurs:

  • Assess business plans for immigration suitability.
  • Connect with designated organizations.
  • Navigate PR applications and compliance.

Final Thoughts

For students in Canada, the journey doesn’t have to end with graduation. The Start-Up Visa program offers an exciting and innovative path to permanent residency while pursuing entrepreneurial dreams. With proper legal guidance, students can transform their ideas into a long-term future in Canada.

FAQs

1. Can I apply for the Start-Up Visa directly after finishing my studies?
Yes, if you have a qualifying business idea and meet the program’s requirements, you can apply directly after your studies.

2. Do I need work experience to apply for the Start-Up Visa?
No, unlike other PR pathways, prior work experience is not required. The focus is on your business idea and support from a designated organization.

3. How long does the Start-Up Visa process take?
Processing times vary but can take 2–3 years. A temporary work permit may allow you to start your business in Canada while waiting.

4. Can I apply for the Start-Up Visa with co-founders?
Yes, up to five people can apply as owners, but each must meet eligibility requirements.

Contact Information

If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.