Canada ends Start-up Visa program

Canada has closed its Start-up Visa (SUV) program and will introduce a new entrepreneur pathway to permanent residence through a pilot scheme in 2026, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The change includes an immediate halt to new SUV-related work permits and applications, as the government looks to clear backlogs and reshape its business immigration programs. IRCC announced on December 19 that it will no longer accept applications for the optional work permit available to Start-up Visa applicants. The only exception applies to applicants already in Canada who are seeking to extend their existing SUV work permit. The department also confirmed that it will stop accepting new Start-up Visa applications after December 31 at 11.59 pm. However, IRCC said applicants who have already secured a valid commitment from a designated organisation issued in 2025 will still be eligible to apply. Such applicants must submit their applications by June 30, 2026. The department also extended the pause on the Self-Employed Persons Program until further notice. This program has remained closed to new applications since April 30, 2024. The federal government said these steps are part of a broader transition to a “new, targeted pilot program for immigrant entrepreneurs.” Details of the upcoming pilot will be shared in 2026.The government said the latest measures are intended to “help address the large inventory of applications for Canada’s business programs.” It added that the changes also support the country’s Talent Attraction Strategy outlined in the most recent Immigration Levels Plan. IRCC has not yet shared how the new entrepreneur pilot will differ from the current Start-up Visa Program, but it indicated that the new pathway will be more focused and aligned with Canada’s long-term immigration goals.