An Interview with Immigration Consultant Leila Abbaszadeh, RCIC
Maple News sat down with Leila Abbaszadeh, a leading Canadian immigration consultant (RCIC), to discuss a recent landmark decision from the Federal Court (2025 FC 671) and what it means for Start-Up Visa (SUV) applicants and future entrepreneurs eyeing Canada as their new home.
Maple News:
Leila, the Federal Court just released a decision in the case of Tousi v. Minister of Citizenship and Immigration (2025 FC 671). What does this mean for entrepreneurs considering Canada’s Start-Up Visa program?
Leila Abbaszadeh:
This decision is an incredibly positive signal. The Court ordered Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to make a decision within 90 days for SUV applicants who had faced more than five years of waiting. The judge firmly stated that such delays are not acceptable unless there are compelling, specific reasons. This demonstrates the strength and reliability of Canada’s judicial oversight—the system is working to protect entrepreneurs and ensure fair, timely processing.
Maple News:
Some critics have said processing times for the Start-Up Visa are long. Does this decision help?
Leila:
Absolutely! The Court directly compared the applicants’ wait time of 62 months to the average processing time for the Start-Up Visa, which is usually only 38–40 months. The judge highlighted that even where security checks are necessary, “blanket statements” or excuses from IRCC are not enough to justify these types of delays. This means future SUV applicants can feel confident that unreasonable waits will not be tolerated by Canadian courts.
Maple News:
What message does this send to international entrepreneurs?
Leila:
It’s very clear:
Canada’s Start-Up Visa remains one of the very best immigration pathways for innovative entrepreneurs worldwide! The courts are showing that they will defend the rights of entrepreneurs, demanding timely decisions and holding the government accountable. For anyone hesitating, this should be a green light—the Canadian legal system protects Start-Up Visa applicants and upholds their right to a decision within a reasonable period.
Maple News:
Were the applicants in this case at fault for the delays?
Leila:
No, the judge made it clear that the applicants had done everything right—responding to all requests quickly, with “no suggestion” they were responsible for any delay. The judge emphasized that it is the government’s responsibility to explain and justify any holdups, not the applicants’. This further reassures entrepreneurs that their applications are treated fairly and transparently in Canada.
Maple News:
What’s your final advice for entrepreneurs looking at the Start-Up Visa?
Leila:
If you’re an entrepreneur with an innovative idea, there’s no better time or place than Canada. The Start-Up Visa offers an open, supportive environment, backed not only by government programs but by an independent court system that truly protects your rights.
This latest Federal Court decision is great news for all future Start-Up Visa applicants—Canada is open for business, and our legal system is on your side!
- Court ordered IRCC to make a decision within 90 days for long-delayed SUV applicants.
- Average SUV processing time recognized as 38–40 months—delays beyond this must be justified.
- The Canadian legal system stands up for Start-Up Visa entrepreneurs.
- Applicants found not responsible for delays; government must provide proper explanations.