Entrepreneurs & Business Owners

LMIA Exempt Work Permit - C11:
Entrepreneurs & Business Owners

C11 Business Work Permit

The C11 Significant Benefit Work Permit, under Canada’s International Mobility Program (IMP), enables foreign entrepreneurs and business owners to temporarily come to Canada to establish, acquire, or operate a business that delivers significant economic, social, cultural, or technological benefits. Unlike the former LMIA Owner-Operator pathway, the C11 work permit is LMIA-exempt, regulated under R205(a) of the IRPR, and specifically intended for a temporary stay in Canada.

Foreign entrepreneurs, who launch a new business, acquire an existing Canadian enterprise, or make a substantial investment in a Canadian company, may apply under the IMP (C11), a streamlined, innovation-focused category for individuals delivering measurable benefits to Canada.

Immediate Benefits of the C11 Work Permit:

Business Ownership & Control - Establish or operate a business in Canada with direct, hands-on management.

Work Authorization - Live and work in Canada under a tailored, LMIA-exempt permit.

Pathway to Permanent Residence - While temporary, C11 can act as a springboard to PR via the Start-Up Visa Program, provincial entrepreneur streams, or federal immigration pathways.

Significant Benefit Focus - Created for businesses that generate jobs, advance innovation, or boost local/regional economies

Temporary & Renewable - Initial permits are issued for up to 18 months and may be extended if significant benefits are demonstrated.

Key Qualifications - Entrepreneurs & Business Owners
To be eligible under the C11 category, applicants must show:

Temporary Intent

A defined, time-limited stay in Canada (normally up to 18 months), with plans to leave or transition later.

Clear Significant Benefit

Demonstrated contribution to Canada’s economy, society, culture, or industry - such as job creation, regional development, innovation, or market expansion.

Sufficient Funds:

Support funds: to cover personal/family living costs (benchmarked to LICO for 18 months).
Business funds: separate capital to establish and operate the enterprise, with proof of source.

Relevant Skills & Business Plan

A credible, detailed business plan backed by entrepreneurial or managerial experience.

Eligibility Criteria

For the Entrepreneur:

Active management of the Canadian business
Demonstrated business or managerial experience
Proof of both personal (support) and business funds

For the Business:

Genuine and viable business opportunity
Evidence of significant benefit to Canadian citizens or permanent residents
Compliance with Canadian laws and regulations

How long does the C11 work permit last?

Work permits are typically issued for up to 18 months, with the possibility of renewal if the business continues to provide significant benefits.

Can I transition to Permanent Residence?

Yes. Many entrepreneurs transition to PR via the Start-Up Visa (SUV), Provincial Entrepreneur Streams, or federal economic programs, depending on eligibility.

Can my family accompany me?

Yes. Spouses may apply for an open work permit, while children may attend school in Canada.

Book a Consultation

LMIA Exempt Work Permit - C11:Entrepreneurs & Business Owners

C11 Business Work Permit

Our C11 Entrepreneur Service Packages

Package 1: Strategic Business Establishment & C11 Immigration Support (VIP)

For entrepreneurs establishing a new business in British Columbia

Package 2: Business Acquisition Support & C11 Immigration Strategy

For entrepreneurs purchasing an existing business in British Columbia

Package 3: C11 Immigration Services Only

For clients who already have a business or acquisition plan in place