Before 2013, there was no dedicated visa pathway designed specifically for start-up founders to relocate and build their businesses in another country.

In April 2013, Canada became the first nation to introduce a Start-Up Visa Program. Since then, more than 20 countries have implemented similar initiatives aimed at attracting innovative business ideas and entrepreneurial talent from across the globe.

Most countries offering this program follow a comparable selection process. Entrepreneurs are required to present their business concept to a government-approved organization. If the proposal is accepted, they are granted a visa that allows them to establish, operate, and manage their start-up in the host country.

Notably, Canada remains the only country that provides direct, unconditional permanent residency to successful applicants. In contrast, other countries typically issue a work permit initially, which may later lead to permanent residency based on certain conditions.

Countries offering Start-Up Visa Programs include:

• English-speaking countries: United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland
• Non-English-speaking countries: Portugal, Spain, Chile, Estonia, France, Denmark, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Singapore