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

March 12, 2026

Effective January 1, 2026, new Ministerial Instructions introduce a pause on intake for the start-up business class (SUV) and the Federal self-employed persons class (SEP). This update clarifies how applications received before and after this date are to be prioritized and managed.

For the SUV: Applications received before January 1, 2026, will continue to be processed under the new instructions and remain eligible for priority processing where applicable. As of June 30, 2026, the Centralized Intake Office (CIO) will no longer accept new applications. Applications received outside these parameters must be returned with fees.

For the SEP: Intake pause is extended, and no new applications will be accepted until further notice. Applications received before the initial pause (April 30, 2024) will continue to be processed in accordance with existing guidance.

Updated instructions

• Assessing the application (start-up business class)
• Economic classes: Procedures at the Centralized Intake Office for applications (non-Express Entry)
• Permanent resident program: Economic classes