Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program sees surge with nearly 500 new permanent residents in January

In January 2024, nearly 500 immigrant entrepreneurs gained permanent residency through Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) program, marking a 58.1% increase over the previous month. Last year, the SUV welcomed a record-breaking 1,460 new permanent residents. The program’s popularity continues to surge, with January’s immigration levels up 880% compared to 2023. Ontario and British Columbia remain top destinations for SUV immigrants, followed by Alberta, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia. The SUV program, launched in 2015, offers a pathway to permanent residency for candidates with qualifying businesses and investments. Initial application processing for permanent residence takes an estimated 37 months.