Canada Business Visitor Visa vs Start-Up Visa – What’s the Difference?

 A clear comparison to help Indian entrepreneurs choose the right path for expansion.

Canada offers a thriving environment for international entrepreneurs, with two key visa pathways for business-related travel and expansion: the Business Visitor Visa and the Start-Up Visa Program. While both cater to professionals and business minds, they serve very different purposes and require distinct eligibility criteria. This guide simplifies the comparison for Indian entrepreneurs planning to explore or expand in the Canadian market.

1. Purpose of Each Visa

Business Visitor Visa

This is a temporary visa for individuals visiting Canada for short-term business activities such as attending meetings, conferences, trade shows, or site visits. It does not permit working or setting up a business in Canada.

Start-Up Visa Program

The Start-Up Visa is a permanent residence pathway designed for entrepreneurs who want to launch an innovative business in Canada that can compete globally and create jobs for Canadians.

2. Eligibility Criteria

Business Visitor Visa:

  • Have a valid reason for short-term business travel

  • Prove ties to your home country (e.g., employment, family, assets)

  • Provide an invitation letter from a Canadian company

  • Show sufficient funds for the stay

  • No intention to enter the Canadian labor market

Start-Up Visa:

  • Have a qualifying business idea

  • Obtain a letter of support from a designated Canadian investor (angel fund, VC firm, or incubator)

  • Meet language proficiency (CLB 5 in English/French)

  • Have enough settlement funds

  • Be actively involved in managing the Canadian business

3. Duration and Stay

  • Business Visitor Visa allows you to stay for up to 6 months, depending on the officer’s discretion at the port of entry.

  • Start-Up Visa leads to permanent residency if approved, with full rights to live, work, and operate a business in Canada.

4. Application Processing Time

  • Business Visitor Visa: Usually processed within a few weeks (varies by country).

  • Start-Up Visa: Processing time can be 12 to 16 months or more, depending on completeness and verification stages.

5. Investment and Business Setup

  • Business Visitor Visa doesn’t require any investment or business setup in Canada.

  • Start-Up Visa requires building a credible business case, securing Canadian support, and establishing operations in Canada.

Which One Should You Choose?

If your goal is to attend business meetings or explore the market, the Business Visitor Visa is appropriate. However, if you're an innovator planning to launch and grow your business in Canada with long-term ambitions, the Start-Up Visa is the right path.

Choosing the right visa ensures you align your business goals with Canada's immigration pathways. Each route has its advantages, but understanding your long-term vision is key to making the best decision.

[Click Here] to get expert advice on the most suitable visa for your Canadian business journey.



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