Canada increases immigration levels for Start-Up Visa and Self-Employed Persons Program

Permanent immigration to Canada under the Economic immigration class is the largest source of permanent resident admissions to Canada, at approximately 62% of all admissions in 2021, which is consistent with the trend observed over the past four years.

IRCC continues to welcome immigrant entrepreneurs through the Federal Business Immigration Programs (Start-Up Visa and Self-Employed), and is addressing the inventory of applications that grew over the pandemic. 

In fact, IRCC made it clear that these two programs were essential by increasing significantly their levels for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Set at 1,500 admissions for 2022, the Minister increases the number to 3,500 for 2023, 5,000 for 2024 and 6,000 for 2025.  Numbers speak for themselves and show the government intention and commitment to this category of application.