Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced improvements to the Start-up Visa Program:
- More places allocated to this program for 2023, with further increases planned for 2024 and 2025.
- Applicants will be able to apply for a work permit that is up to three years in duration instead of one year.
- Applicants will be able to apply for an open work permit instead of one that limits them to working for their own start-up.
- This three-year open work permit will be available to each member of the entrepreneurial team instead of only those who are essential and urgently needed in Canada.
- Prioritizing of applications that are supported by venture capital, angel investor groups and business incubators and have capital committed, along with applications that are supported by business incubators who are members of Canada’s Tech Network.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
The improvements to the Start-up Visa Program, in addition to the announced Streamlined Work Permit for US H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa holders and the new Innovation Stream are in line with the government of Canada’s recent efforts to be globally competitive for the world’s top talent and highly skilled workers.
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to share updates as more news is available. If you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions, please contact your employer or EIG attorney.