Minimum investment for Canada startup visa?
I'm an aspiring entrepreneur with a promising business idea, and I'm interested in applying for the Canada Startup Visa. I understand that securing investment from a designated organization is a key requirement, but I'm unsure about the minimum financial commitment expected. Can someone clarify the official minimum investment amounts required from venture capital funds, angel investor groups, or incubators for the Canada Startup Visa program?
1 answer
The Canada Startup Visa technically has no minimum personal investment requirement — but there are financial realities:
Official Requirements:
- Letter of Support from a designated organization:
- Angel investor: minimum $75,000 CAD investment commitment
- Venture capital fund: minimum $200,000 CAD investment commitment
- Business incubator: No minimum investment (acceptance into program)
Practical Costs:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Incubator program fees | $30,000–75,000 CAD |
| Legal fees | $10,000–20,000 CAD |
| Business plan development | $3,000–7,000 CAD |
| Settlement funds | $13,000–35,000 CAD (required) |
| PR application fees | ~$2,500 CAD |
| Total realistic budget | $60,000–140,000 CAD |
Settlement Fund Requirements (mandatory):
- Single applicant: ~$13,757 CAD
- Family of 4: ~$25,564 CAD
- Must be held for 12 months
💡 Best Strategy:
Go through a business incubator — they have the lowest financial barrier and often provide mentorship, co-working space, and networking.
Assess your Canada Startup Visa eligibility on MIGRS.