Can young people aged 19-20 get a Start-Up Visa?

Recently, we've received many questions from parents asking whether their children, aged 19-20 and currently students, are eligible to participate in the Start-Up Visa (SUV) program. To fully answer this question, we need to carefully analyze the aspects related to the program and the eligibility of young people.

The purpose of the Start-Up Visa program

The Start-Up Visa program is designed to attract groundbreaking and innovative startups that aim to make a long-term contribution to the Canadian economy. These projects require not only innovative ideas but also a capable operational team to successfully implement and develop them. Therefore, the competence and execution capabilities of the individual or team behind the start-up are key factors for application approval.

Both the elderly and the young have equal opportunities.

There are no age restrictions for participating in the SUV program. Both young and old people have their own value in entrepreneurship. For example, some famous people have successfully started businesses at different ages:

This shows that age is not the determining factor for success; rather, it is ability and how you prove yourself that matters.

The challenge for young people in demonstrating competence in a Start-Up Visa application.

However, since Start-Up Visa applications are reviewed based on paper documents, convincing the review board of one's capabilities is a significant challenge for young people.

• Older adults: Can easily provide evidence from work experience, academic achievements, and past projects.
• Young people: Often lack practical experience, leading to difficulties in demonstrating their ability to manage an innovative business.

This doesn't mean young people can't do it, it simply means you need more time to prepare thoroughly.

Advice for young people who want to get into SUVs.

If you are 19-20 years old and have not yet had significant experience or achievements, we recommend that you:

• Participate in entrepreneurship training courses: These courses help you learn management skills, idea development, and innovative thinking – all essential for demonstrating your capabilities to the review board.
• Undertake small startup projects: Start with simple projects to hone your creative thinking and build a product portfolio, which will increase the credibility of your profile.
• Partnering with a professional team: Our team, along with Ontario Startup Studio , will support young entrepreneurs through structured startup training, equipping them with practical skills to prepare them for their SUV journey.

The true value of the SUV program

If you are a young, passionate entrepreneur participating in the SUV program with the goal of immigration, you will realize the immense value this program offers. SUV is not simply an immigration opportunity, but also a platform to learn entrepreneurial skills that no other place, not even school, can fully teach you. The key is choosing a reputable consulting firm – one that genuinely wants you to become a talented individual with an entrepreneurial mindset and contribute to the economy.

Development trends in the provinces

Beyond federal-level SUVs, several Canadian provinces are also gradually shifting their focus to graduate entrepreneurship programs. These programs, if implemented properly and systematically, not only provide opportunities for young people to start businesses but also cultivate truly talented individuals who contribute to the Canadian economy.

Where can I get advice?

The Start-Up Visa program requires thorough preparation and proper guidance. If you are willing to learn, work hard, and persevere, don't hesitate to join. KeyApply and Ontario Startup Studio will support you. Book an appointment for a consultation on very affordable projects for student entrepreneurs !