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Start-Up Visa Canada — Program Paused

Canada's Start-Up Visa Program was paused for new permanent residence applications on June 30, 2026. IRCC continues to process applications accepted before the deadline, and some existing applicants may still have work permit options. Argus can assist with existing Start-Up Visa files and alternative immigration planning.

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Current status

Is the Start-Up Visa Program open?

No. IRCC paused the Start-Up Visa Program on June 30, 2026 and is not accepting new PR applications. Applications accepted before that date continue to be processed.

Designated organizations stopped issuing new commitment certificates after December 31, 2025.

Overview

What was the Start-Up Visa Program?

The program targeted immigrant entrepreneurs building innovative businesses outside Quebec that could create jobs and compete globally. It required a qualifying business, support from a designated organization, language ability and settlement funds.

Existing applicants

What happens to applications already submitted?

IRCC continues to process accepted applications. Existing applicants must respond to requests, maintain accurate information and report material changes. IRCC states that eligible existing applicants may still be able to apply for an open work permit while PR is processed.

Program requirements

Core requirements for existing Start-Up Visa files

Existing files continue to be assessed against the qualifying-business ownership rules, designated-organization support, language, settlement-fund and admissibility requirements that apply to the program.

Existing files

Managing a Start-Up Visa application in process

  1. Monitor the PR application and IRCC account.
  2. Respond to biometrics, medical, police or document requests.
  3. Maintain accurate business and family information.
  4. Assess work permit eligibility if temporary work in Canada is needed.
  5. Report material changes affecting the commitment or application.
Common issues

Common Start-Up Visa file concerns

  • assuming new applications are still accepted;
  • changes to the designated organization or commitment;
  • changes affecting an essential applicant;
  • business ownership no longer matching requirements; and
  • confusing a work permit with PR approval.
Professional support

How Argus can help with an existing Start-Up Visa matter

Argus can review an existing application, assist with IRCC requests and status issues, assess an available work permit option and discuss other federal or provincial entrepreneur pathways.

FAQs

Start-Up Visa FAQs

Can I submit a new Start-Up Visa PR application?

No. The program was paused on June 30, 2026.

Will IRCC process existing applications?

Yes.

Can an existing applicant work in Canada?

Some eligible existing applicants may qualify for an open work permit.

Are designated organizations issuing new commitments?

No new commitment certificates were accepted after December 31, 2025.

Official information

Current government sources

Immigration rules can change. These pages were reviewed against current official sources on September 23, 2026:

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Every application depends on the individual facts and the rules in force when you apply. A consultation can help identify the requirements, documents and issues most relevant to your situation.