Toronto, Ontario
Address: 4711 Yonge Street, Suite 1000,
Toronto, ON M2N 6K8
Email: info@canadapt.ca
Phone: +1(833)939-9911
C11 Work Permit is designed for temporary workers, entrepreneurs, and self-employed individuals who have the potential to create significant benefits for Canadian businesses and citizens. Under the International Mobility Program, the C11 Work Permit allows individuals to work in Canada without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Instead, applicants must demonstrate their potential to contribute significant social, cultural, or economic benefits to Canadian citizens or permanent residents. We understand that each case is unique, and we evaluate applications on a case-by-case basis, providing personalized guidance throughout the process.
Our team is here to help you with your work permit application, employer compliance fee, LMIA exemption codes, and even crafting a compelling business plan to showcase your potential
The C11 Work Permit, part of Canada’s International Mobility Program (IMP), grants foreign entrepreneurs and investors temporary permission to work as self-employed individuals in the country. Issued for an initial two-year period, this permit can be extended if the business remains active and profitable. Successful C11 permit holders may eventually qualify for permanent residency in Canada.
Eligible applicants for the C11 work permit include self-employed individuals starting a business in Canada, entrepreneurs buying a business or franchise, individuals chosen through Entrepreneur streams of Provincial Nominee Programs, and startup founders applying for PR under the Startup Visa Program.
This permit is ideal for those who don’t plan to stay long in Canada, will establish businesses in remote areas, or provide a unique service or product benefiting Canadians. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate business ownership, relevant experience, financial capacity, a feasible business plan, progress towards executing the plan and generating significant benefits for Canada.
The application process to obtain a C11 work permit in Canada includes these steps:
Evaluate the pros and cons of setting up or purchasing an existing business in Canada, considering factors such as market demand, competition, and investment requirements. Seek guidance from Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants if needed.
Perform thorough market research and create a detailed business plan, outlining your proposed business model, hiring plan, pricing strategy, and revenue projections to demonstrate the viability of your venture.
Start implementing your business plan before submitting your C11 work permit application to showcase your commitment. This may include depositing funds, choosing a location, and establishing business contacts.
Fill out the C11 work permit application, providing supporting documents related to business ownership, purchase agreements, finances, and support letters from Canadian suppliers/vendors. Submit the application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Wait for your application to be processed, which typically takes one to three months. If approved, plan your journey to Canada.
Upon arrival at the Canadian border, a Canadian Border Services Agent will verify your identity and issue your C11 work permit, allowing you to operate your business in Canada.
Run your business for at least 12 months, ensuring its profitability, and apply for permanent residence through the Federal Skilled Worker Program within the Express Entry system. Review the program’s specific requirements before applying.
To prove eligibility, a foreign national must provide either:
The average processing time of the application is (90 days for a work permit). However, please note that due to the COVID-19 restrictions, it’s not possible to give accurate processing times for most applications. If you have already submitted your application, you can check its status here.
Extensions for C11 work permits may only be approved while an application for permanent residency (normal extension procedures apply) or in exceptional circumstances are being completed. Significant investment projects or applicants awaiting a provincial nomination certificate are instances of exceptional circumstances. There must be a letter from the province or territory expressing their continuous support.
The C11 LMIA exemption refers to a specific work permit category for entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals, allowing them to apply for temporary entry to Canada without needing an LMIA. This exemption is tailored for those with entrepreneurial intentions or a self-employed background.
When applying for the C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit, your family members can join you on your journey to Canada. Your spouse may be eligible for an open work permit, while your children can obtain study permits. This allows you to focus on building your business in Canada with the support of your family.
If your spouse receives an open work permit, they have the option to work for your business. However, note that their employment will not contribute to the job creation requirement for Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
It is crucial to plan ahead and consider all possibilities. Your spouse might also qualify as “self-employed,” which could impact your available PR pathways. To make informed decisions regarding your business and future, we highly recommend consulting a lawyer to discuss your short-term and long-term objectives.
Yes, your spouse and dependent children can be included in your C11 application. Your spouse may receive an open work permit, and your children can secure authorization to study in Canada. Additionally, you and your family may be eligible for provincial health care and free public education for your children.
Though the Owner-Operator program underwent changes in April 2021, making it more challenging to navigate, the C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit serves as an excellent alternative. This option provides increased independence and flexibility, allowing you to establish your business and adapt to the Canadian market.
Canadapt Consulting boasts significant expertise in business immigration, including C11 applications. Our skilled immigration consultants offer customized solutions tailored to your unique situation. We devise an immigration strategy that suits your needs and support you throughout the entire process. With our assistance, you can concentrate on your business while we handle your immigration requirements.
Address: 4711 Yonge Street, Suite 1000,
Toronto, ON M2N 6K8
Email: info@canadapt.ca
Phone: +1(833)939-9911