Government Announcement: In a recent update, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has made significant changes to its business immigration programs to align with the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan. Effective immediately, IRCC has ceased accepting applications for the optional work permit under the Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program, except for current SUV work permit holders in Canada seeking extensions. To streamline the transition to permanent residence, priority will be given to permanent residence applications from individuals with a SUV-specific work permit already in Canada. The criteria for prioritization will remain unchanged. Furthermore, as of December 31, 2025, IRCC will no longer accept new SUV Program applications, except from applicants with a 2025 commitment from a designated organization who have yet to apply. The pause on the Self-Employed Persons Program applications will also continue until further notice. These adjustments aim to pave the way for a new pilot program tailored for immigrant entrepreneurs and to manage the existing application backlog. Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming entrepreneur pilot program in 2026.