How to Apply for a Canada Start-Up Visa Program Open Work Permit

The Start-Up Visa (SUV) program in Canada is a gateway for innovative entrepreneurs to establish their businesses in the country. SUV candidates can apply for an open work permit.

This allows them to work for any employer in Canada while building their start-up business, providing much-needed flexibility to supplement their income during the critical early stages of entrepreneurship.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Start-Up Visa open work permit, including eligibility, required documents, and the application process.

On This Page You Will Find:

• An overview of the Start-Up Visa Open Work Permit, including its benefits and eligibility criteria.
• Detailed information about the documents required to apply.
• A step-by-step guide to the application process.
• Key details about processing times, biometrics, and family member applications.
• FAQs to address common concerns about the open work permit for Start-Up Visa candidates.

What is the Start-Up Visa Open Work Permit?

Previously, Start-Up Visa candidates were limited to closed work permits that tied them exclusively to their start-up. Recognizing the financial challenges many entrepreneurs face while launching a business, IRCC introduced the open work permit to provide more flexibility.

With this permit, candidates can:

• Work for any employer in Canada while continuing to develop their start-up.
• Gain additional income to support themselves and their families during the business setup phase.
• Bring immediate family members to Canada, with spouses or partners eligible for open work permits and children eligible for study permits.

This open work permit is valid for three years and is renewable under specific conditions.

Who is Eligible for the Start-Up Visa Open Work Permit?

To qualify for the open work permit, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Application for Permanent Residence:
   You must have already applied for permanent residence under the Start-Up Visa program and received your Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter.
2. Essential Team Member:
   If you are part of an entrepreneurial team, you must be designated as an essential member whose contributions are critical to the business.
3. Province or Territory of Residence:
   You must intend to live and operate your business outside the province of Quebec, as the Start-Up Visa program does not apply there.
4. Economic Contribution:
   You must demonstrate that your start-up will provide significant economic benefits to Canada.
5. Financial Sufficiency:
   You must show you have enough funds to:
   • Support yourself and your family.
   • Fund your business independently of your personal support funds.

Required Documents for the Open Work Permit

To apply for the open work permit, you will need to prepare the following documents:

Mandatory Documents:

1. Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR):
   This is the confirmation letter issued when you submitted your permanent residence application under the Start-Up Visa program.
2. Letter of Support:
   A document from the designated entity (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator) that endorsed your start-up.
3. Proof of Personal Funds:
   Bank statements or financial records showing you have sufficient money to support yourself and your family.
4. Proof of Business Funds:
   Evidence that you have separate funds allocated for your business operations.
5. Medical Examination Results:
   A valid medical exam report from an IRCC-authorized panel physician.
6. Police Certificate:
   A valid police clearance certificate from your home country or any country you’ve lived in for six months or more.

Recommended Additional Documents:

To strengthen your application, include these optional but helpful documents:

1. Business Plan:
   A detailed outline of how your business will operate, including timelines, goals, and financial projections.
2. Proof of Exploratory Research:
   Evidence of activities such as supplier discussions, site selection, and exploratory visits that show you’re actively preparing to launch your business.
3. Staffing Plan:
   Details of your hiring plans, including the roles you’ll fill and how they align with your business objectives.
4. Professional Résumé:
   A résumé highlighting your qualifications, relevant experience, and transferable skills that contribute to your role in the business.
5. Proof of Competency:
   Documents showing your ability to perform business-related duties, such as certifications, degrees, or prior entrepreneurial experience.

Application Process for the Open Work Permit

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Ensure all required and recommended documents are scanned or photographed clearly for electronic submission. Double-check that your AOR letter and letter of support are up-to-date.

Step 2: Submit an Online Application

1. Visit the official IRCC website to start your application.
2. Answer the eligibility questions to receive customized instructions.
3. Pay the required fees using a valid credit or debit card.

Step 3: Provide Biometrics

If required, schedule an appointment to submit your fingerprints and photo. Biometrics can significantly impact processing times, so complete this step promptly.

Step 4: Monitor for Updates

After submission, IRCC may request additional documents or ask you to attend an interview. Be prepared to respond quickly to avoid delays.

What Happens After You Apply?

If You’re Outside Canada:

• Once approved, you’ll receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction. This is not your work permit but confirmation that you’re allowed to work in Canada.
• Present this letter to immigration officers at the border. Your actual work permit will be issued upon arrival.

If You’re In Canada:

• IRCC will process your application and mail your work permit to your Canadian address if approved.
• Be prepared for potential requests for a medical exam or additional documentation during the process.

Family Members Accompanying You

One of the benefits of the open work permit is that it allows family members to join you in Canada. Here’s what they need to apply:

1. Spouses or Partners:
   • Eligible for their own open work permit.
   • Must submit a separate application.
2. Dependent Children:
   • Children under 18 or those attending school will need a study permit.
   • Submit a study permit application alongside your work permit application.
3. Visitor Visa or eTA:
   • Each family member will need either a visitor visa or electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.

Key Considerations

1. Bringing Funds to Canada:
   If you bring more than CAD $10,000 across the border, you must declare it to customs. Failure to declare could result in fines or confiscation.
2. Processing Times:
   Work permit processing times vary depending on your country of residence. Check the IRCC website for the most accurate estimates.
3. Medical Exams:
   Certain types of work may require you to undergo a medical exam. This step can add over three months to your application processing time, so plan accordingly.

Start-Up Visa Open Work Permit FAQ