Is Canada's Start-Up Visa open?

No. The federal Start-Up Visa program was suspended in January 2026 pending a new pilot program.

Is residence by investment possible in Canada?

Yes, the main route is the Quebec Investor Program, which requires a CAD 1M investment and a CAD 200,000 contribution.

The Quebec program requires B2 level spoken French proficiency.

Is my investment refunded?

The CAD 1 million investment is refunded at the end of five years; the CAD 200,000 contribution is non-refundable.

When can I apply for citizenship?

After permanent residence, you can apply for citizenship by meeting the physical presence requirement of three years within five years in Canada.

When will the Start-Up Visa reopen?

There is no fixed date; a new pilot or regulation is expected, and we monitor the current status.

2026 Program Guide

Canada Golden Visa & Residence Permit

Canada's federal Start-Up Visa (SUV) was temporarily suspended in January 2026. The main route to residence by investment is now the Quebec Investor Program, which requires a net worth of CAD 2 million and a five-year investment of CAD 1 million (plus a CAD 200,000 contribution); a B2 level of French is required.

Last updated: 2026-07-07 · Reviewed by: Burak Ünal

At a glance

Start-Up Visa (SUV): Suspended (January 2026)
Quebec Investor Program: CAD 2M net worth
Investment: CAD 1M (5 years, refundable) + CAD 200,000 contribution
Language: B2 French
Residence: 12 months within 2 years

Who is it for?

Investors seeking permanent residence and a strong passport in a G7 country.
Those with CAD 2M net worth and management experience for the Quebec Investor Program.
Applicants ready to learn or already meeting B2 level French.
Those who prefer a refundable investment (CAD 1M) structure.

Start-Up Visa (SUV) Suspended

Canada's federal Start-Up Visa has been temporarily closed to new applications since January 2026 due to a heavy application backlog; a new regulation or pilot is expected. As a result, the main route to residence by investment is currently the Quebec Investor Program.

Quebec Investor Program

The program requires a minimum net worth of CAD 2 million, two years of management experience, a five-year (refundable) investment of CAD 1 million, and a non-refundable contribution of CAD 200,000. It also requires B2 level spoken French and a specific residence requirement. The process opens a path to permanent residence and subsequently citizenship.

Weighing the Quebec Route

With the federal Start-up Visa currently suspended, the Quebec Investor Program stands as the main investment route into Canada, and it carries clear expectations that applicants should weigh from the outset. It suits established business people, since it looks for a substantial net worth and genuine management experience rather than passive capital alone. The programme combines a refundable multi-year investment with a separate contribution, so it is worth being clear which portion is returned and which is not before committing. Two conditions in particular shape suitability. A working level of French is required, and there is a defined residence expectation over the first years, which means this is a route for those prepared to build a real life in the province rather than hold status from afar. Families can be included, so planning documents for a spouse and children early is sensible, alongside evidence of your assets and business background. The longer-term reward is a path toward permanent residence and, in time, citizenship in a G7 country. Because the federal option is paused and Quebec's criteria are demanding, confirming current conditions with a qualified adviser is an important first step.

Benefits

Live and work in a G7 country.
Strong passport and high quality of life.
Path to permanent residence and citizenship.
Family members can be included.

Requirements

CAD 2M net worth and 2 years of management experience for Quebec.
CAD 1M investment + CAD 200,000 contribution.
B2 level French and residence requirement.

Costs

Quebec investment: CAD 1,000,000 (refundable)
Quebec contribution: CAD 200,000 (non-refundable)
Start-Up Visa (SUV): Currently suspended

FAQ

Is Canada's Start-Up Visa open?: No. The federal Start-Up Visa program was suspended in January 2026 pending a new pilot program.
Is residence by investment possible in Canada?: Yes, the main route is the Quebec Investor Program, which requires a CAD 1M investment and a CAD 200,000 contribution.
Is French required?: The Quebec program requires B2 level spoken French proficiency.
Is my investment refunded?: The CAD 1 million investment is refunded at the end of five years; the CAD 200,000 contribution is non-refundable.
When can I apply for citizenship?: After permanent residence, you can apply for citizenship by meeting the physical presence requirement of three years within five years in Canada.
When will the Start-Up Visa reopen?: There is no fixed date; a new pilot or regulation is expected, and we monitor the current status.

Sources

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) - Start-up Visa Program

Disclaimer: Golden Visa Partners is an investment and immigration advisory firm; it does not provide legal or attorney services. The investment amounts, timelines and program conditions on this page are for general guidance only and, because regulations change quickly, may be out of date. Before making any decision, we recommend consulting current official sources and obtaining independent legal and financial advice.

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