Canada's Start Up Program is growing, with 51 entrepreneurs having now become permanent residents of Canada through the program as of May 2, 2016.
Selected applicants represent 26 start-ups that have launched or will be launching soon in communities across Canada, including Sydney, Halifax, Fredericton, Toronto, Mississauga, Waterloo, Thunder Bay, Calgary, Whistler, Vancouver and Victoria.
Successful applicants so far have come from Australia, China, Costa Rica, Egypt, India, Iran, South Africa and Uruguay, and work across a number of industries, including technology, food product manufacturing, education, medical research, banking, human resources, and advertising.
Demand for this program is rising, with more than 50 additional permanent resident applications still in process from entrepreneurs from around the world.
The purpose of this program is to recruit innovative foreign national entrepreneurs who will create new jobs and drive economic growth.
Followings are the Start Up eligibility requirements:
• Meet minimum language requirements in English or French (CLB 5 in all abilities);
• Have completed at least one year of post-secondary education, during which the applicant was in good standing at their educational institution;
• Have sufficient funds to settle in Canada;
• Plan to settle in a province other than the Province of Quebec; and
• Pass Canadian security and medical clearances.
No more than five foreign nationals may apply for permanent residence as part of the same business venture under the Start-Up Visa Program.
