Canada has announced a temporary halt to some of its business immigration visa programs as it prepares to launch a new pilot initiative for immigrant entrepreneurs in 2026.
On December 19, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stated that it will no longer accept new applications for the optional work permit linked to the Start-Up Visa (SUV) program, except for applicants already in Canada seeking to extend their current SUV work permit.
The department also said that, effective December 31 at 11:59 p.m., it will stop receiving new SUV applications. An exception applies to applicants who secured a valid commitment from a designated organization in 2025 but have not yet submitted their SUV application; these applicants have until June 30, 2026, to apply.
In addition, applications under the Self-Employed Persons Program will remain paused, continuing a suspension that has been in place since April 30, 2024.
According to the federal government, these measures are part of a “transition to a new, targeted pilot program for immigrant entrepreneurs,” with details expected to be released in 2026.
The SUV program has faced criticism for long processing times, with some entrepreneurs facing up to a ten-year wait for permanent residency. The government said the pause aims to address the backlog in business immigration applications and aligns with Canada’s Talent Attraction Strategy outlined in the latest Immigration Levels Plan.
The move underscores Canada’s ongoing effort to refine its immigration system and support skilled entrepreneurs seeking to contribute to the country’s economic growth.
