Looking for accurate information as a start-up founder navigating Canada's start-up visa program? This start-up visa resource center has been created based on our expertise in assisting start-up founders for over a decade.

The curated tips, precedents, FAQs and articles found here are regularly updated. If you still have questions after reviewing the material, we are happy to assist in answering your start-up visa related questions.

SUV Program in 2026

Effective 19 December 2025, the Start-up Visa Program is closed to new applicants. 

Refusal of SUV PR applications

While the overall "acceptance" rate for SUV PR applications has been over 70% for the last few years, given the increased number of applications in the SUV backlog is leading to more applications being refused on minor grounds. 

Some of the top reasons applications are being refused in 2025 include:

1) Missing a document when the file was initially submitted 2-3 years ago

2) If there are changes in the start-up team

3) If there are changes in the letter of support after the initial application was submitted

4) Not being able to demonstrate sufficient "progress"

Refusal of SUV WP applications 

In 2025 we are witnessing an increasing number of SUV work permit applications being refused. The Open work permits introduced in 2024 require extensive submissions to prove eligibility. Having a letter of support is not sufficient to have a successful application. 

To learn more about the recent refusals and our work to assist applicants here.

Dealing with delayed SUV  applications 

The idea of "priority" processing has created a great deal of confusion for SUV applicants, especially those facing very long processing times.

If your application has exceeded 40 months processing time, we may be able to assist you with a mandamus application to force IRCC to proceed with finalizing your application.

Start-up Visa Analysis

How We Can Help

Advisory Service

Submitting your SUV PR application is a major step, but questions often arise during the long wait for a decision. Changes in your business, role, or team can raise concerns about ongoing eligibility, and it’s important to be proactive.

We provide specialized advisory services to help SUV applicants at any stage of the process. Whether you’re facing changes in circumstances, need help understanding program requirements, or want to strengthen your file, we offer practical, strategic guidance tailored to your situation.

Our goal is to help you stay compliant, reduce risks, and maximize your chances of success.

Responding To PFLs

Receiving a Procedural Fairness Letter (PFL) for your SUV application is a pivotal moment. It means an immigration officer has serious concerns about your application, often related to business viability, your role as a founder, or compliance with program requirements. A complete and well-argued response is critical to avoiding refusal.

Just as important, your PFL response becomes part of the official record. If your application is later refused, a strong PFL reply preserves your ability to challenge the decision through judicial review (no new evidence can be introduced after a refusal).

We assist clients in preparing thorough, evidence-based responses that directly address the officer’s concerns and strengthen both the immediate application and any potential legal challenge.

Dealing with Refusals

A SUV PR refusal can be especially difficult, particularly when the application has been in process for years or is tied to other co-founders’ applications. These refusals not only jeopardize permanent residence and work permit status, but also threaten the viability of the business venture itself.

At MyVisa.Law, we provide strategic litigation support aimed at challenging refusals under the SUV program. Whether your work permit or permanent residence application has been denied, we work to identify legal errors, build compelling arguments, and pursue remedies through judicial review or reconsideration where appropriate.