Start-up Visa Canada: Opportunities and Challenges 2025-2026

In 2025, Canada’s Start-up Visa (SUV) program continues to solidify its position as one of the most comprehensive and attractive immigration pathways for entrepreneurs from Vietnam and around the world.

With the new Immigration Plan released by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the country is opening up breakthrough opportunities for those seeking to establish a business and settle permanently. However, the increasing level of competition requires potential entrepreneurs to prepare thoroughly, seize the right moment, and demonstrate strong capability to succeed in 2025.

Federal Business Immigration Cap in Canada

According to the new Immigration Plan, the Federal Business stream—including the Start-up Visa (SUV) program—will undergo significant quota adjustments. From 5,000 slots in 2024,the number will decrease to 2,000 slots in 2025, and is expected to further drop to around 1,000 slots annually during 2026–2027.

This reduction means opportunities will become scarcer and competition tougher. Applications must not only be complete and accurate but also logically structured, well-prepared, and highly persuasive to maximize approval chances.

This move reflects the Canadian government’s direction: streamlining and optimizing the immigration process whileemphasizing careful preparation and clear strategies from entrepreneurs before submitting an SUV application.

Key Updates in Canada’s SUV Program 2025

Despite the tighter quota, the Start-up Visa (SUV) program is becoming even more attractive thanks to several new adjustments. The most notable is the introduction of a 3-year Open Work Permit for SUV applicants.

Previously, entrepreneurs were only granted a closed work permit, requiring them to work exclusively in their own start-up company. Now, with the new permit, they can:

• Work for any employer in Canada
• Earn additional income while running their start-up
• Have their spouse also apply for an open work permit

This change reduces financial pressure and offers greater flexibility for SUV entrepreneurs when starting a new life in Canada. However, to qualify for the permit, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Be an applicant of the SUV program
• Hold an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) issued by IRCC
• Be a key member of the SUV entrepreneurial team supported by a designated organization
• Prove that their start-up business provides tangible benefits to the Canadian economy
• This does not apply to the province of Quebec

Become a Canadian Permanent Resident with OMG Visa. Work with OMG Visa’s immigration experts and Phong Gia Law Firm to handle all legal procedures related to Canadian immigration.

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