Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a temporary pause on key business immigration pathways as it prepares to roll out a new pilot program for immigrant entrepreneurs.
In a statement issued on December 19, IRCC confirmed it will no longer accept applications for the optional work permit linked to the Start-Up Visa (SUV) program. The only exception applies to applicants already in Canada who are seeking to extend an existing SUV work permit.
The department also disclosed that, effective December 31 at 11:59 p.m., it will stop accepting new Start-Up Visa applications. However, applicants who have already secured a valid commitment from a designated organization in 2025—but have not yet submitted their application—will still be eligible to apply. These individuals must file their SUV applications no later than June 30, 2026.
In addition, IRCC confirmed it will maintain the ongoing suspension of the Self-Employed Persons Program, which has been on hold since April 30, 2024.
According to the federal government, the decisions are part of a broader “transition to a new, targeted pilot program for immigrant entrepreneurs,” with further details expected to be released in 2026.
The Start-Up Visa program has come under increasing scrutiny in 2025 due to severe processing backlogs. Earlier this year, a government tracking tool revealed that some applicants could face waits of up to 10 years before obtaining permanent residence through the SUV pathway.
IRCC said the latest measures are designed to reduce the growing inventory of business immigration applications while aligning with Canada’s Talent Attraction Strategy, as outlined in the most recent Immigration Levels Plan.
The pause signals a major reset of Canada’s approach to business immigration, as policymakers seek a more efficient and targeted system for attracting global entrepreneurial talent.
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