Helping immigration professionals guide their clients through the Canadian Start-up Visa process

At CBGA, we are committed to supporting immigration professionals in successfully guiding their clients through the complex and competitive Canadian Start-up Visa program. Our goal is to equip professionals with the tools and resources they need to ensure a smooth and efficient application experience for their clients, ultimately helping them achieve their dream of launching a business in Canada.

Start-up Visa Applicant Profile:

  • Language Skills: English proficiency at a minimum of CLB 5.
  • Age Requirement: Must be 18 years or older.
  • Education: No formal education requirements.
  • Financial Resources: Must demonstrate access to at least 200,000 CAD for personal and business support in Canada.
Guiding Start-Up Visa Success

Step-by-Step Guide to the Start-up Visa

If your client doesn’t meet the requirements for popular immigration programs due to age, education, or English language skills, but has substantial financial resources, the Start-up Visa could be a great alternative. This program focuses on entrepreneurial potential and investment, offering a pathway to Canada that doesn't rely on typical factors like age or education.
Choosing a Business Incubator and Submitting the Application
A suitable business incubator is selected from the list of those designated by the Canadian government, ensuring it aligns with the project’s profile and goals. The application is then submitted to the chosen incubator with all necessary details.
The process begins with developing a detailed business plan that outlines strategies for growth in both the Canadian and international markets.
Business Planning
An interview with the incubator’s admissions committee evaluates the project’s potential. Upon a successful interview, the project is accepted into the incubator program, an agreement is signed, and the required fees are paid.
Interviewing with the Incubator Committee and Acceptance into the Program
Participating in the Acceleration Program
The project moves through an acceleration program, which may be completed remotely or in Canada, allowing for further refinement of the business model and strategies.
The business plan is updated based on feedback from the acceleration program, and the project is presented and defended before the incubator commission.
Reviewing and Defending the Business Plan
Receiving the Letter of Support
After a successful defense of the business plan, the incubator issues a letter of support, an essential document for the Start-up Visa application.
After arriving in Canada, contact is made with the business incubator. A roadmap for business development is created, the company is officially registered, and a bank account is opened.
Setting up the Business
Launching the Business
Following the completion of these steps, the business is successfully launched and operational in Canada.
  • Must have a business idea for launching in Canada or an innovative start-up already in operation.
  • English language proficiency at a B1 level (CLB 5).
  • Must own or plan to own at least 50% of the company’s shares.
  • Must have sufficient funds to support living in Canada, ranging from $12,960 to $34,299 CAD, depending on family size.

Client Requirements

Timeline

1 to 3 months
Obtaining a letter of support
18-20 months
Processing time for PR applications through a business incubator
5-7 months
Processing time for PR applications through a prior designated organization (“priority process” highlighted on the IRCC website)
7-8 months
Processing time for PR applications through a venture capital fund

How We Engage with You

We offer comprehensive support at every stage of the Start-up Visa application process. Immigration partners can rely on our expertise in preparing business plans, securing letters of support, and navigating the visa requirements. Whether it’s assisting with document preparation, advising on business incubator selection, or providing guidance through the residency process, we ensure that your clients have the best possible foundation for success in Canada.
Important point

What Clients Return to You With

After working with us, clients return to you with a clear and actionable business plan, a letter of support from a designated business incubator, and all necessary documentation completed and ready for submission. They are well-prepared for the visa application process, having received guidance through each step. Additionally, they gain the confidence and knowledge to successfully launch and develop their business in Canada.

How We Support You

We provide immigration professionals with all the tools and resources needed to streamline the Start-up Visa journey for their clients. From helping refine business concepts and connecting with business incubators to ensuring compliance with immigration requirements, our team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Our goal is to make the process efficient and successful, allowing you to focus on growing your client base and enhancing your services.

Frequently Asked Questions from Immigration Partners

Frequently Asked Questions from Your Clients

Connect with us

  • Anna Pospelova
    Business Growth
  • Daniil Tyan
    Innovative Technologies
  • Mariana Fedorova
    Business Consulting
  • Fedor Belomoev
    Strategic Leadership

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