The role of the work permit
Some SUV applicants run their businesses in Canada on a work permit while awaiting permanent residence.
When to apply
Apply before your work permit expires. Applying before expiry generally lets you maintain status and keep living and working in Canada while it is processed.
Documents needed
- Evidence of continued support from your designated organisation
- Business progress and operating records
- The status of your permanent residence application
After the pause
Although new applications are paused, extensions for pending applicants follow IRCC’s latest guidance.
How we can help
We check expiry dates, prepare the documents and file the extension for you.
SUV at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment | No investment requirement |
| Previously, PR in | About 18 months |
| Language | IELTS 5 |
| Status | Paused; new pilot to be announced |
SUV application process and timing
- Assessment and business direction (1–2 weeks): We choose a business direction that suits your background.
- Business plan and prototype (1–3 months): We write the business plan and pitch deck, and our in-house developers build a website or app prototype.
- Incubator and letter of support (Per the incubator’s timeline): Join a designated incubator and obtain the letter of support — with a full refund if it cannot be obtained.
- Permanent residence application (Previously about 18 months): File the permanent residence application with the letter of support; applicants already in Canada on an SUV work permit are now processed first.
Main SUV requirements
- A qualifying new business
- A letter of support from a Canadian government-designated incubator
- Language at IELTS 5
- Sufficient settlement funds: CAD 15,263 for a single applicant, CAD 28,362 for a family of four (based on family size)
- A police certificate and medical examination before immigrating
Need help?
To find out whether this programme suits your family, book a free consultation with Global Immigrate, or contact us on WhatsApp, LINE or WeChat.
Learn more: Canada Federal Start-up Visa (SUV)