Canada Pauses SUV & Self-Employed Immigration: 2026 Pilot Coming

Canada Freezes SUV and Self-Employed Programs Ahead of New Pilot for Immigrant Entrepreneurs

• IRCC has paused the Start-Up Visa (SUV) work permit and new SUV applications as of December 2025
• Self-Employed Persons Program remains on hold until further notice
• Applicants with valid 2025 commitment certificates can still apply by June 30, 2026
• These changes are part of a move toward a new pilot program for immigrant entrepreneurs
• The upcoming pilot aims to address long processing delays and streamline Canada’s business immigration stream
• Full details of the new program expected in 2026, aligning with Canada’s Talent Attraction Strategy

Canada Hits Pause on Key Business Immigration Programs

If you’re an entrepreneur eyeing Canada as your next business destination, there’s some big news you’ll want to know. As of December 19, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a major shakeup to two of its business immigration programs—the Start-Up Visa (SUV) and the Self-Employed Persons Program. These changes are paving the way for a brand-new pilot program for immigrant entrepreneurs launching in 2026.

Let’s break down what’s changed, what it means for aspiring business immigrants, and what we can expect next.

Start-Up Visa Program: What’s Changing?

One of the biggest updates is the immediate halt on work permits tied to the Start-Up Visa Program. As of mid-December 2025, IRCC will no longer accept applications for the optional work permit that SUV applicants could previously apply for—unless you’re already in Canada and looking to extend your current SUV work permit.

On top of that, the department has set a firm deadline of December 31, 2025 (11:59 p.m. to be exact), after which it will no longer accept new Start-Up Visa applications.

However, there’s a key exception: If you already secured a valid commitment certificate from a designated organization in 2025 but haven’t applied yet, you’re still eligible—as long as you submit your application by June 30, 2026.

This move likely comes in response to mounting concerns about the SUV program’s notoriously long processing times. In fact, a new IRCC tool released earlier in 2025 showed that some SUV applicants were waiting up to 10 years to receive permanent residency. That’s a long time to keep an innovative business idea on the back burner.

Self-Employed Persons Program Still on Hold

The Self-Employed Persons Program isn’t making a comeback just yet either. This program, which has allowed artists, athletes, and other cultural contributors to immigrate based on their self-employed experience, has been on pause since April 30, 2024. Now, IRCC has confirmed it will remain closed to new applications until further notice.

Again, this seems to be part of a larger effort to manage program backlogs and improve the immigration experience for business-minded newcomers.

What’s Behind These Changes?

According to the federal government, this pause is all part of a bigger plan—a “transition to a new, targeted pilot program for immigrant entrepreneurs.” The aim is to modernize and refine Canada’s approach to business immigration, with a focus on attracting high-impact talent and reducing application backlogs.

This announcement also ties into Canada’s broader Talent Attraction Strategy, which was outlined in the most recent Immigration Levels Plan. That strategy emphasizes the need to bring in top global talent across sectors, including innovation, tech, and entrepreneurship.

While the current programs are being paused, the government seems determined to create a more efficient and streamlined pathway for immigrant entrepreneurs in the near future.

What Do We Know About the New Pilot Program?

At this point, details about the upcoming pilot are still under wraps. The federal government has said more information will be shared in 2026. But based on what’s been said so far, we can expect a more focused, performance-based approach that supports Canada’s innovation goals while avoiding the processing delays that plagued earlier programs.

It’s also possible this new pilot will incorporate feedback from entrepreneurs, designated organizations, and other stakeholders involved in the SUV and Self-Employed programs.

Planning to Immigrate as an Entrepreneur? Here’s What You Can Do

If you were hoping to apply through the Start-Up Visa or Self-Employed Persons Program, the current pause may feel like a roadblock—but it doesn’t have to be. Depending on your business background, investment goals, and where you’d like to settle, there are still options available through provincial programs and other federal streams.

For example, several provinces offer entrepreneur streams through their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Manitoba, in particular, has a well-established business immigration pathway. You can learn more about that through our Manitoba PNP resource.

Additionally, if you’re already in Canada and have a valid SUV work permit, you can still apply for an extension—so not all doors are closed.

Looking Ahead: A More Efficient Business Immigration System

While the recent changes may feel like a pause, they’re more of a reset. Canada is clearly working to refine its business immigration programs to better serve both newcomers and the country’s economic interests.

The upcoming pilot program in 2026 could be a game-changer, offering faster processing, clearer pathways, and more support for immigrant entrepreneurs who want to build something meaningful in Canada.

In the meantime, staying informed and exploring all available options—whether through federal or provincial channels—is your best strategy.

Final Thoughts

Canada’s commitment to attracting top-tier entrepreneurial talent isn’t going anywhere—it’s just evolving. If you’re an aspiring business owner or innovator looking to make Canada your new home, the current pause on applications is a temporary measure aimed at creating a better, more efficient process for the future.

We’ll be keeping a close eye on the rollout of the new pilot program in 2026, so stay tuned for updates!

Want to explore your current options or plan ahead for the 2026 pilot? Reach out to our team or check out our latest immigration resources to stay ahead of the curve.

Need guidance on navigating your immigration journey? Contact us today for expert advice tailored to your goals.