Skip to main content
A member of GI Group
Programme guides · Canada Federal Start-up Visa (SUV)

SUV “Essential Persons”: The Risks of a Team Application

Written by Global Immigrate consultants · Reviewed by Oscar Yip, Founder & Managing Director

Summary

Up to five people could apply together under the SUV. A designated organisation could name some of them "essential persons" — if an essential person’s application is refused or withdrawn, others can be affected. The rules, risks and advice for teams.

Team application rules

Rule Detail
Team size Up to five applicants with the same business
Individual ownership Each generally holds at least 10% of the voting rights
Combined ownership Applicants plus the designated organisation hold more than 50%

What is an essential person?

A designated organisation can name members who are essential to the business as "essential persons".

Why it matters

If an essential person’s application is refused or withdrawn, the others’ applications may also be refused. The team’s make-up affects every member.

Points for forming a team

  1. Know each member’s background, including language, funds and admissibility.
  2. Agree roles and ownership in a shareholders’ agreement.
  3. Consider who is named essential, and how strong their application is.
  4. Agree in advance what happens if someone leaves.

Sole vs team applications

Sole Team
Depends on others No Yes
Skills Must have them all Can divide by strength
Risk On yourself Affected by essential persons

Teams already in process

If a member is thinking of withdrawing, assess the effect on the others first and seek advice promptly.

FAQ

Can I apply alone?

Yes. A sole applicant doesn’t depend on others, but must meet every requirement.

Can family members be co-applicants?

Yes, but each must meet the requirements individually.

Can essential persons be changed?

That depends on the designated organisation and IRCC; seek advice first.

Sources

Related articles

Zalo
LINEWeChat

One of our professional consultants will contact you — free and confidential.

* Required

Answer a few quick questions to find the programmes that suit you best.