C11 Work Permit Explained: Canadian Entrepreneur Work Permit.

C11 work permit: designed for foreign self-employed individuals wishing to conduct business in Canada. Look into eligibility, benefits, application procedures, and whether or not this program could lead to permanent residency in Canada.

Please note that much has changed in Canadian immigration since this piece was published. Therefore, before proceeding, please consult with our lawyers.

Among the many available options, the C11 Work Permit route offers a unique pathway for foreign entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors to come to Canada to do business. Despite the promising opportunities it provides, the C11 program remains one of the best-kept secrets of Canadian immigration.

Well, we at Sobirovs are committed to lifting the veil of secrecy! Below, we demystify the C11 program and offer a comprehensive breakdown of this business immigration option, including how to determine your eligibility, the process, and some essential application tips we’ve lifted from our practice. The program has recently been updated for 2024, and this guide has the most up-to-date information.

What is the C11 Work Permit?

The C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit was created under the International Mobility Program (IMP) and allows foreign entrepreneurs and investors to obtain a work permit in Canada as self-employed individuals. The Initial work permit is usually issued for two years and can be extended several times, provided that your business in Canada is active and profitable.

Who Should Apply for a C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit?

The C11 work permit is suitable for the following categories of individuals:

• Self-employed individuals who would like to start a business in Canada;
• Entrepreneurs who would like to buy a business or franchise in Canada;
• Individuals selected under any of the Entrepreneur streams of the Provincial Nominee Programs;
• Startup founders who have submitted their PR application under the Startup Visa Program.

From our experience, this program is perfect for those who:

• Do not plan to spend significant time in Canada but rather come to Canada temporarily to establish a business;
• Those who intend to establish businesses in remote areas;
• Those who offer unique services or products that are likely to benefit Canadians.

If you are considering the C11 work permit, you will need to convince the immigration officer that:

• You own your business or a majority share of your business in Canada (at least 50%);
• You have the relevant experience and capacity to operate your business in Canada;
• You have the financial capacity to execute your business plan;
• Your business plan is feasible and can be implemented;
• You have taken significant steps to execute your business plan;
• Your business will generate “significant benefit to Canada.”

Application Process & Timeframes for C11 Work Permit

To apply for a work permit under the C11 program, applicants should follow the following process and take into consideration the processing times. The backlog at the IRCC level, your current citizenship or place of residence and even the capacity of the Canadian embassy or consulate where you submit your applications may all affect the timelines. Therefore, it is impossible to predict the exact timeline within which your C11 work permit application may be finalized.

What is a “Significant Benefit,” and How Do I Prove I Have It?

The “Significant Benefit to Canada” requirement is assessed with the following 8 criteria, in no particular order:

1. Is the work likely to create a viable business that will benefit Canadian or permanent resident workers or provide economic stimulus?
   • Does the applicant have a particular background or skills that will improve the viability of the business?
   • Is there a business plan that clearly shows that the applicant has taken steps to initiate their business?
   • Has the applicant taken some measures to put the business plan in action (showing evidence of having the financial ability to begin the business and pay expenditures, renting space, having a staffing plan, obtaining a business number, showing ownership documents or agreements, etc.)?
   • Does the applicant have the language abilities needed to operate the business?
   • Is the business of a temporary nature (for example, seasonal businesses)?
   • Is the foreign national establishing a long-term business that will require their presence indeterminately (for example, an auto mechanic shop)?
   • What are any spin-off benefits from the applicant’s self-employment?

It is essential to understand that, in general, when assessing the “significant benefit to Canada” requirement, the immigration officer will review whether:

• your business will create an economic benefit for the Canadian economy. You can satisfy this requirement by creating new jobs, actively participating in the economic development of a region, or contributing to Canadian exports.
• your business will contribute to the advancement of a particular industry in Canada. You can satisfy this requirement by innovating products or services, contributing to technology innovation, or creating opportunities for Canadian workers to improve their skills and gain experience.
• your business will have a negative effect on the Canadian economy. Make sure to avoid activities that could potentially have harmful consequences on Canadian culture, economy, or society.

Examples of Businesses with “Significant Benefits”

According to IRCC, a small grocery store in downtown Toronto that employs only a few people will not significantly contribute to the community. However, the same store in a less densely populated region with no similar businesses nearby could generate significant benefits to the community. This is because the store in the second scenario could provide much-needed jobs in the area while also providing an essential service and potentially attracting new people to the region.

Please look at some of our successful C11 clients whose businesses satisfied the significant benefit to Canada requirement.

• Our client from the UAE bought a franchise in Ontario.
• Our client from Mongolia immigrated to Canada by partnering with a property management company.
• Our client from India started a food wholesaling and distribution company in Canada.
• Our client from Vietnam purchased a beauty salon in Ontario.

We have helped numerous foreign entrepreneurs with their C11 Work Permit applications and relocation to Canada. To start your journey to Canada, schedule a one-hour strategy meeting with our senior business immigration lawyers.

Family and the C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit

When you apply for the Entrepreneur Work Permit, C11, your family members can also immigrate to Canada with you. For instance, your spouse could be eligible for an open work permit, while your children could receive study permits. As a result, you can enjoy developing your business in Canada while your family cheers for you!

If your spouse is issued an open work permit, they could work for your business. Remember that your spouse will not be counted towards your company’s creation of job opportunities for Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

Whatever your decision, make sure to plan ahead! It is possible that your spouse can be considered “self-employed” as well, which may affect the PR pathways available to you. We recommend speaking with a lawyer about your short-term and long-term goals to make the right decisions for your business and future.

Frequently Asked Questions About C11 Work Permits

Below are some questions that frequently arise when considering C11 applications.

Learn More About How We Assist Entrepreneurs with C11 Work Permits