Canada’s Start-Up Visa Ends: What Comes Next for Entrepreneur Immigrants?
With Canada officially closing the Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program on January 1, 2026, many aspiring immigrant entrepreneurs are questioning their next steps toward permanent residence. While the program’s closure marks the end of a popular federal pathway for start-up founders, it does not signal the end of business immigration to Canada.
Entrepreneurs still have multiple viable routes to build a future in Canada while awaiting the federal government’s anticipated replacement pilot for the SUV.
A Shift, Not a Shutdown, in Business Immigration
The closure of the Start-Up Visa reflects a broader shift in Canada’s immigration strategy—one that places greater emphasis on provincial selection, regional economic needs, and proven business performance rather than early-stage ideas alone.
In this new landscape, provincial programs and work-permit-first pathways have become the most practical and realistic options for entrepreneurs.
Provincial Nominee Programs: The Leading Alternative
Entrepreneur-focused Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams are now the primary pathway for business owners seeking permanent residence. These programs allow provinces and territories to nominate entrepreneurs who contribute directly to their local economies.
Most PNP entrepreneur streams follow a similar structure:
- Applicants first obtain a work permit
- They establish or purchase a business in the province
- They operate the business for a defined period
- A provincial nomination is issued only after performance targets are met
Failure to meet agreed business commitments may result in refusal or withdrawal of the nomination.
Provinces Actively Welcoming Entrepreneurs
Alberta
Alberta offers multiple entrepreneur pathways, including options for international graduates, foreign graduates, rural entrepreneurs, and agricultural investors. Investment thresholds vary based on location and stream, making Alberta flexible for different profiles.
British Columbia
British Columbia remains one of the most active provinces for entrepreneur immigration. Its base and regional streams target experienced entrepreneurs, while its strategic projects option allows foreign corporations to bring key personnel to manage Canadian operations.
Manitoba
Manitoba supports entrepreneurs through its Business Investor Stream, including pathways for farm investors and international graduates. The province places strong emphasis on active business management and long-term settlement.
Atlantic Canada
Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island all operate entrepreneur streams aimed at attracting business owners who will actively manage and grow enterprises in their communities. Several programs also cater specifically to international graduates.
Northern Canada
Yukon and the Northwest Territories offer business nominee programs designed to strengthen smaller economies, with lower competition and region-specific investment requirements.
Across all provinces, applicants must also meet language, education, experience, and settlement criteria in addition to business requirements.
Quebec’s Distinct Business Immigration Options
Entrepreneurs planning to settle in Québec must apply through the province’s own immigration system, which operates independently from federal PNPs.
Quebec offers:
- An investor pathway for high-net-worth individuals
- An entrepreneur pathway for business founders, buyers, and innovators
- A self-employed worker pathway for professionals operating independently
French language proficiency at an intermediate level is a critical requirement across all Quebec business programs.
The C-11 Work Permit: A Strategic Entry Route
For many entrepreneurs, the C-11 work permit has emerged as a powerful alternative following the SUV closure.
This LMIA-exempt work permit allows foreign nationals to start, purchase, or operate a business in Canada if the business can demonstrate significant benefit to the country. Benefits may include job creation, innovation, regional development, or skills transfer.
The C-11 pathway is commonly used to:
- Enter Canada quickly
- Launch and grow a business
- Build Canadian work experience
- Transition later to permanent residence through a PNP or other PR programs
Applicants must hold majority ownership, actively manage the business, show financial stability, and demonstrate relevant business expertise.
What Entrepreneurs Should Do Now
With the federal Start-Up Visa no longer available, entrepreneurs must shift their focus toward province-led programs and work-permit-first strategies. Planning, business viability, and regional alignment are now more important than ever.
Those who act early and structure their applications correctly will remain well-positioned for Canadian permanent residence—even in a post-SUV landscape.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
