Switzerland has become the latest European country to feel the pinch from Canada's sweeping changes to its immigration rules, joining neighbors like Germany, Sweden, Italy, Portugal, Iceland, and France—along with more than 30 others across the continent—in dealing with tougher barriers for entrepreneurs seeking to relocate or launch businesses in Canada.
Effective January 1, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has suspended new applications to the Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program, a once-popular pathway that offered permanent residency to innovative founders backed by designated organizations such as venture capital funds, angel investors, or business incubators. The freeze also halts optional open work permits for new applicants, leaving many aspiring entrepreneurs in limbo.
The decision stems from massive backlogs that had ballooned processing times to over a decade in some cases, prompting the government to hit pause and clear the inventory. Officials describe it as a strategic reset rather than a permanent end, with plans to introduce a more targeted, selective entrepreneur pilot program later in 2026.
Those who secured a valid commitment certificate from a designated organization in 2025 still have until June 30, 2026, to submit their full permanent residence applications.For European innovators, particularly from tech-savvy hubs in Switzerland, Germany, and France, the change disrupts a key route into Canada's vibrant startup ecosystem.
Many had viewed the SUV as an attractive alternative to stricter domestic options, offering a direct shot at residency without massive personal investment requirements.While the pause creates short-term uncertainty and forces entrepreneurs to explore alternatives—like provincial nominee programs or other temporary work pathways—the government insists the overhaul will ultimately strengthen Canada's ability to attract high-caliber talent. As the continent's business minds adapt to this new reality, the coming months will reveal how the promised pilot reshapes opportunities for global founders eyeing Canada.
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