Eligibility & Investment Criteria
Detailed breakdown of voting rights, language requirements, settlement funds, and investment thresholds for VCs and Angel groups to ensure your startup qualifies.
Voting Rights
Each applicant must hold at least 10% of the voting rights attached to all shares of the corporation outstanding at that time. Together with the designated organization, you must hold more than 50%.
Investment Capital
Secure a minimum investment of $200,000 from a designated Venture Capital fund or $75,000 from a designated Angel Investor group. Business incubators do not require a specific investment amount.
Language Proficiency
Demonstrate proficiency in English or French at Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 in all four areas: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
Settlement Funds
Provide proof of sufficient unencumbered funds to support yourself and your dependents upon arrival in Canada. This amount is updated annually by IRCC.