IRCC paused new federal Start-Up Visa applications on June 30, 2026. No new Start-Up Visa assessment is offered while intake is paused.
Existing applications
IRCC continues to process applications that were accepted before the pause. Existing applicants may request a file review if they received correspondence, changed business or family circumstances, or need to understand the current program status.
Other business strategies
Entrepreneur, intra-company transferee and other business-related work-permit categories have separate requirements and are not replacements for a paused Start-Up Visa application. A current business strategy review must identify the exact category and must not promise permanent residence.