Canada’s Startup Visa

Gives global entrepreneurs a direct path to PR
Your idea, Our expertise. A future built in Canada

What Is Canada’s
Startup Visa Program?

The Startup Visa Program is Canada’s unique immigration pathway for innovative entrepreneurs who want to build a business and a life in Canada. Instead of needing a job offer or investment capital, you’ll need a promising startup idea and support from a designated Canadian incubator. If approved, you and your co-founders can apply directly for permanent residency while growing your business with expert guidance in one of the world’s most welcoming startup environments.

The Real Value Behind Canada’s Startup Visa

Direct PR Access

Apply for permanent residency without needing a job offer or prior work permit

Hands-On Incubator Support

Get real mentorship and resources from a government-approved incubator

No Employer Sponsorship Needed

Build your own business without relying on a Canadian employer

Co-Founders and Family Included

Bring up to five co-founders, plus your spouse and children, under one application

Thriving Startup Environment

Launch in a country with strong funding, talent, and innovation networks

Built for Global Entrepreneurs

This program was created specifically for visionary founders ready to scale

Are You Eligible?

Canada’s Startup Visa Program is designed for entrepreneurs who bring more than just an idea—they bring innovation, ambition, and the potential to build something that contributes to the economy. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) expects founders to show that they are serious about launching and growing a viable business in Canada, and that they have the right foundation to do it successfully.

You might qualify if you:

Have a truly innovative idea

Your startup solves a real problem in a fresh, scalable way.

Secure support from a Canadian incubator

You’ve been accepted by a designated organization and received a Letter of Support.

Play an active role in your business

You’re not just investing—you’re building, leading, and growing the company.

Own enough of the business

You hold at least 10% of the company, and together with your co-founders and incubator, you control over 50%.

Meet the language requirement

You’ve scored at least CLB 5 in English or French on an approved test like IELTS or TEF.

Can support yourself financially

You have enough savings to live in Canada while your business takes off (based on IRCC’s family size guidelines).

Plan to live and build your business in Canada

You’re ready to move, contribute, and grow your company locally—not remotely.

Have more than just an idea

Whether it's a prototype, market research, or a team—you're showing signs of real progress.

Startup Visa, Step by Step

1

Create a Scalable Business Idea

2

Get Support from an Incubator or Investor

3

Meet Language Requirements

4

Show Proof of Funds

5

Apply for Permanent Residency

6

Submit Biometrics

7

Complete Medical & Police Checks

8

Wait for IRCC Decision

9

Plan Your Arrival in Canada

10

Launch and Operate Your Startup

RAD Immigration Makes It Happen!

At Rad Immigration, we don’t just help you apply, we help you succeed

From refining your business idea and preparing investor-ready materials, to securing your Letter of Support and launching your startup in Canada, we guide you through every stage of the Startup Visa process. Our team covers it all: Pre-LOS strategy, incubator matching, LOS support, legal documentation, business development, branding, and post-arrival growth. With real experts in immigration, startups, and marketing, Rad is your all-in-one partner for turning your vision into a thriving business, and a future in Canada.

Big ideas need the right support. Let’s build your future, together!