Canada Start-Up Visa Program — The Business Start-Up Component

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The Canada Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program is a unique immigration pathway that enables innovative entrepreneurs to obtain permanent residence by establishing a qualifying business in Canada. Unlike passive investment programs, the SUV requires active involvement in developing and managing a business that is innovative, scalable, and globally competitive.

Henley & Partners collaborates with a trusted network of Canadian legal, business, and start-up ecosystem partners to guide clients through every stage of the process. Our goal is to ensure that the business start-up component becomes a gateway to long-term success in Canada.

Overview of the business start-up process

The Canada SUV Program follows a structured, multi-phase process. Key stages include:

1. Application assessment and vetting: A comprehensive review of the applicant’s background, entrepreneurial goals, and business experience
2. Start-up summary or matching: Preparation of a detailed business concept or matching the applicant with an existing qualifying start-up in Canada
3. Finalization of business documentation: Development of a full business plan and supporting materials for submission
4. Submission to a designated organization: Presentation of the business idea to a government-approved organization such as an incubator, angel investor group, or venture capital fund
5. Letter of support: Upon approval, the designated organization issues a Letter of Support required for the immigration application
6. Business incubation program: Participation in a structured program that provides mentorship, training, and support in refining the business model
7. Application for work permit and permanent residence: Submission of the complete application to Canadian immigration authorities
8. Work permit issuance (if needed): Enables the applicant to relocate to Canada and begin actively managing the start-up
9. Permanent residence approval: Granted upon successful review of the complete application package

Processing time: Permanent residence is typically granted within 18 to 40 months.

Dedicated support from
Henley & Partners

Launching a business in a new country can be complex. Henley & Partners provides tailored support throughout the SUV process. In collaboration with our trusted Canadian partners, we offer:

• Business model development and validation
• Access to incubator and accelerator networks
• Legal and compliance advisory
• Full preparation of immigration documentation

This integrated service offering helps clients fulfill all program requirements while building a commercially viable venture in Canada.

DOWNLOAD CANADA PROGRAM BROCHURE