Adedokun Waliyu 
Canada (IRCC) has announced a pause on parts of its business immigration visa programs as it prepares to introduce a new pilot scheme for immigrant entrepreneurs.
On December 19, IRCC said it will stop accepting applications for the optional work permit available to Start-Up Visa (SUV) applicants, except for those already in Canada who are applying to extend an existing SUV work permit.
The department also disclosed that it will cease accepting new Start-Up Visa applications from December 31 at 11:59 p.m. However, an exception has been made for applicants who secured a valid commitment from a designated organization in 2025 but have not yet applied. Such applicants must submit their SUV applications no later than June 30, 2026.
In addition, IRCC confirmed it will maintain the suspension of applications under the Self-Employed Persons Program, which has remained on hold since April 30, 2024.
The federal government said the changes form part of a broader transition toward a new, more targeted pilot program aimed at attracting immigrant entrepreneurs, with further details expected to be released in 2026.
The Start-Up Visa program came under scrutiny in 2025 due to significant processing delays. A government tracking tool introduced earlier this year indicated that applicants could wait up to ten years to obtain permanent residency through the program.
According to the government, the latest measures are intended to help reduce the growing backlog of applications in Canada’s business immigration streams while supporting the country’s Talent Attraction Strategy, as outlined in the most recent Immigration Levels Plan.
