Canada — FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is the Start-up Visa a passive investment programme?
No. It is an entrepreneurial route: you must build a genuine, innovative business backed by a designated organization. The committed capital (from CAD 75,000 for an angel group, CAD 200,000 for a venture fund, none for an incubator) comes from the organization, and you must actively run the company.
Does it grant permanent residence or just a permit?
Permanent residence directly, for you and your family. A work permit is often used to arrive earlier while the PR application is processed, which currently commonly takes two to three years.
How soon can I become a citizen?
Citizenship is possible after three years of physical presence within a five-year period, subject to the permanent-residence obligation of 730 days in five years. Canadian tax residence does not remove obligations to a country that taxes on citizenship, such as the United States.