Alternative to the Abolished Canadian Start-Up Visa Program
For nearly eight years, the Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program was the preferred pathway for international entrepreneurs seeking Canadian permanent residency. As you may know, this program has now been officially terminated by the Government of Canada.
In response, we are pleased to introduce the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NS PNP – Entrepreneur Stream) as the most competitive business immigration option currently available for qualified entrepreneurs.
Concise comparison between the abolished Start-Up Visa Program and today’s available alternative
Start-Up Visa (SUV) Now Abolished
Time to arrive in Canada: ~36 months (with work permit)
Time to Permanent Residency (PR): ~120 months
Total cost: CAN$230 000
Shareholding/control of business: 10%
Obligation to reside in Canada before PR: None
Nova Scotia Nominee Program (PNP – Entrepreneur Stream) Today's available alternative
Time to arrive in Canada: ~15 months
Time to Permanent Residency (PR): ~45 months
Total cost: CAN$177 500
Shareholding/control of business: 100%
Obligation to reside in Canada before PR: Yes, for approximately 30 months (while operating your business)
Key Takeaway
While the SUV program allowed entrepreneurs to remain abroad, it offered limited control, significantly longer timelines, and higher costs.
The Nova Scotia PNP, by contrast, provides full business ownership, faster processing, and a clearer path to permanent residence, provided the entrepreneur is prepared to actively operate their business in Canada with full control of the shareholding.
Act Early!
As we have seen with previous Canadian investment programs, the most attractive options tend to evolve, tighten, or disappear over time.
The Nova Scotia PNP is emerging as the new “darling” program for business immigration to Canada.
We would be pleased to assess your eligibility and discuss whether this program aligns with your business and immigration objectives.
Contact us today to start to see if you qualify for the Nova Scotia Nominee Program as a pathway to obtain your Canadian PR
