IRCC's new entrepreneur program

When it paused the Start-up Visa and Self-Employed programs, IRCC said a new entrepreneur program would follow. This article separates what has been officially announced from what hasn't.

What IRCC has announced

In its December 19, 2025 notice "Update on Immigration Measures for Entrepreneurs", IRCC said:

• the changes support sustainable immigration levels and the Talent Attraction Strategy in the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan;
• these measures set the foundation for a transition to a new, targeted pilot for immigrant entrepreneurs, and help address the large inventory of business program applications;
• more information on the new pilot would be communicated in 2026.

What isn't known yet (as of October 19, 2026)

On the official pages we reviewed, IRCC had not yet published:

• the official name or opening date;
• net worth, investment, sector or language requirements;
• the role of support organizations;
• annual intake numbers.

Any "investment amounts" or "requirements" for the new program circulating online currently have no basis in official sources.

What to do while waiting

• Follow IRCC's news and notices, the Start-up Visa page and the "Live in Canada permanently" page.
• Prepare what every entrepreneur program usually needs: proof of lawful source of funds, management experience, a business plan and language skills.
• Look into provincial entrepreneur streams that are open.

Note Don't pay deposits or sign contracts for a program whose requirements haven't been announced.