Program delivery update: Start-Up Business Class and Federal Self-Employed Persons Class programs – Intake pause

What’s New
– Effective January 1, 2026, a pause on intake for the Start-Up Business Class (SUV) and Federal Self-Employed Persons Class (SEP) has been introduced via new Ministerial Instructions.

Who is affected
– Individuals and businesses looking to apply under the Start-Up Business Class or Federal Self-Employed Persons Class will be directly impacted by this intake pause.

Key dates
– The intake pause began on January 1, 2026.

Required actions
– Applicants who submitted applications prior to the pause should await further instructions on prioritization and management, while those considering applying should prepare for potential changes in program availability.