Canada Pauses Start-Up Visa Ahead of New Entrepreneur Pilot in 2026

Canada is making major changes to its business immigration programs. IRCC has announced it will stop accepting new Start-Up Visa (SUV) commitment certificates after December 31, 2025. The government will also no longer accept new SUV work permit applications, starting immediately.

These steps are part of Canada’s plan to better manage its business immigration backlog and prepare for a new pilot program aimed at targeting the “right kind” of international entrepreneurs.

What’s Changing Right Now

As per the updated issued by IRCC, it has stopped accepting applications for the optional work permit connected to the Start-Up Visa. The only people who can still apply are those already in Canada who need to extend their current SUV-specific work permit.

The idea is simple. Canada wants to focus on people who are already living and working in the country and help them move toward permanent residence more quickly. Their applications will now be given higher priority, as long as space in the immigration targets allows it.

End Date For New SUV Applications

Here’s the important part. Canada will stop accepting new Start-Up Visa applications after December 31, 2025.

There is one exception. If an entrepreneur already received a commitment certificate from a designated organization in 2025 but hasn’t submitted an application yet, they can still apply. Everyone else will have to wait.

IRCC is also keeping the pause on the Self-Employed Persons Program until further notice. That means no new applications there either.

Important notice for entrepreneurs:

We will stop accepting new start-up visa (SUV) commitment certificates as of December 31, 2025, as well as new SUV work permit applications, effective immediately.

These measures will help us prepare to launch a new pilot by the end of 2026…

— IRCC (@CitImmCanada) December 19, 2025

Why This Is Happening

Canada’s business immigration streams have built up a very large backlog. The government says it needs to clear that inventory and make room for a new, more focused program that aims to attract stronger, more investment-ready entrepreneurs.

The bigger picture is part of Canada’s 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan, which also tries to balance the number of temporary residents in the country and ensure a smoother path to permanent residency.

What Entrepreneurs Can Expect Next

IRCC plans to launch a new pilot program for immigrant entrepreneurs by the end of 2026. We don’t yet know the full details, but the aim is to make the system more targeted and easier to manage. The official information will be released sometime next year.

What Are the Alternatives for Entrepreneurs?

While new Start-Up Visa (SUV) applications will soon close, innovative entrepreneurs still have other paths to explore:

1. PNP Entrepreneur Streams

Several provinces run their own entrepreneur programs. These typically involve running or buying a business in that province, meeting an investment amount, and creating jobs. They remain open.

2. Intra-Company Transfer

Entrepreneurs who own a company abroad can expand to Canada by opening a branch or subsidiary, then apply for an ICT work permit. Many business owners use this route when SUV isn’t available.

3. Work Permits Based on Job Offers

Some founders take leadership roles in Canadian companies and enter through work permits like the LMIA-supported work permit or the Global Talent Stream.

4. Study Pathway

A number of entrepreneurs choose to study in Canada, build connections, and then move into permanent residency through provincial or federal skilled pathways.

5. Wait For The New Entrepreneur Pilot

IRCC confirmed a new pilot program will launch by the end of 2026. If your business idea doesn’t require immediate relocation, holding off until 2026 and entering the new pilot program might be the cleanest option.

This will be a more focused pathway designed for entrepreneurs who can drive lasting growth and job creation in Canada.

Final Thoughts

Canada’s latest move shows a change toward more targeted and responsible immigration for entrepreneurs. Instead of holding onto a large backlog of pending applications, the government seeks programs that draw in founders who are ready, skilled, and committed to creating sustainable businesses in Canada.

For now, foreign entrepreneurs should monitor IRCC updates through 2026. The new pilot program is expected to offer a quicker, more focused path to permanent residence.