How to Have Direct Permanent Residence (PR) and Citizenship in Canada?

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Do you want to start a new life in Canada with your family?Canada offers the Start-Up Visa (SUV) program to attract innovative entrepreneurs and talented founders. This program not only provides the opportunity to establish a business, but also opens the way to direct permanent residence (PR) and, at a later stage, Canadian citizenship.

1. Eligibility Criteria for the Start-Up Visa

To apply for SUV, you must:

Be supported by a designated Canadian investment organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group or business incubator) and receive a Letter of Support
Demonstrate proficiency in English or French with IELTS 5 (CLB 5)
Show proof of sufficient settlement funds
Ensure your business idea can operate effectively and be managed in Canada

For all these requirements, we at the BEYOND team support you at every step.

2. Work Permit and Permanent Residence Process

With the 2024 regulation, Start-Up Visa applicants can now apply for an open work permit of up to 3 years together with their spouse. This permit allows you to continue both your business and your income streams. You can settle in any region of Canada and establish the business you want.

3. PR (Permanent Residence) Application

Thanks to the SUV program, applicants with a valid Letter of Support can obtain direct permanent residence for themselves, their spouse, and their children. This allows you to live, work and benefit from the Canadian education system.

4. Requirements for Citizenship

After receiving permanent residence, the formula to apply for citizenship is straightforward:

Spend at least 1,095 days (3 years) physically in Canada within the last 5 years
File income tax returns if required
Demonstrate English or French language proficiency (for applicants aged 18–54)

5. Education Advantage for Children

Children of permanent residents can study at Canadian universities as domestic students, instead of paying international student fees. This dramatically reduces costs and helps your family build stronger roots in Canada.

6. Dual Citizenship Opportunity

Canada, in most cases, allows dual citizenship. This means you can keep your existing nationality while becoming a Canadian citizen.

7. Updates in Canadian Immigration Policies

As of April 30, 2024, new measures have been introduced to speed up SUV applications and reduce backlogs.
Each designated organization can now issue a maximum of 10 Letters of Support per calendar year.
IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) has taken over sole administration of the SUV program.