Top 3 Ways for Business Owners to Come to Canada.

Business people with experience and capital to invest have several pathways to choose from when immigrating to Canada. They include the Owner/Operator LMIA program, the Start-Up Visa program, the Intra-company Transfer (ICT), the Treaty Investor programs, Reciprocal Work permits, PNP business streams (including the Quebec Investor Program), and Significant Benefit Work Permits.

In this article, we will explore the top 3 types of Canadian business immigration programs available for foreign business people. We’ve selected these top 3 programs because they can be used by any businessperson, entrepreneur or investor who wants to relocate to Canada to own and manage a business.

However, if none of these programs is a good fit for your particular situation, contact us to see if we can find you a business immigration program that fits.

So, here is our list of the top 3 business immigration programs available in Canada in 2020:

1. The Intra-company Transfer work permit;

2. The Owner/Operator LMIA work permit; and

3. The Significant Benefit (C11) work permit.

Below, you’ll find details for each program.

Intra-Company Transferee Work Visa (ICT)

This visa works best for entrepreneurs who already have an existing business abroad and want to run an affiliate or new business in Canada. This visa allows business owners to relocate to Canada and establish a new business in Canada, highlighting the importance of business ownership in the process. Entrepreneurs who would like to pursue the ICT work visa must incorporate their company in Canada and provide a detailed business plan that includes financial forecasts and a hiring plan. Their existing business also must have been in operation in another country for at least 12 months. If these conditions are fulfilled, a 1-year work permit may be granted to work in Canada. The initial ICT work permits can be extended for 5-6 years provided that the foreign entrepreneur meets the following conditions:

• Having an active business in their home country;

• Having an active business in Canada;

• Having a physical office in Canada;

• Having at least 1 Canadian employee.

Advantages of the ICT Program:

• Relatively quick application (2 weeks – 3 months);

• No minimum investment amount, but investment must make sense given the business plan;

• Available for start-ups;

• Available to any nationality;

• Available for business owners, managers, and key personnel;

• Can include non-for-profit organizations;

• No median wage requirements for executives and managers;

• No requirement to relocate to Canada on a full-time basis (e.g. business owners can divide working hours between offices in Canada and foreign companies);

• No minimum language requirements.

Disadvantages of the ICT Program:

• Requires existing foreign company outside of Canada;

• The Canadian company must be owned by a foreign company or by the same shareholders that own the foreign company;

• The foreign company must continue to operate (not suitable for the business owners who want to sell the foreign company and relocate to Canada);

• The transferee must have an employee-employer relationship with the foreign company and Canadian company;

• It’s not the best model for tax-saving purposes;

• Business owners will get a work permit first and can transition to permanent residency only after 1 year of employment in Canada.

Who is eligible under the ICT Program: 

• Business owners who have been working in a foreign company for at least 12 months in the past 3 years;

• Managers who have been working in a foreign company for at least 12 months in the past 3 years;

• Key workers who have been working in a foreign company for at least 12 months in the past 3 years.

Requirements for the foreign company:

• The company must be a legal entity and have been registered under foreign legislation;

• The company must be actively engaged in business in the home country;

• The company must have the financial capacity to expand to Canada (although there is no minimum requirement, we recommend having at least $100,000 in gross revenue to meet this requirement);

• The company should have a physical location (warehouse/office) and preferably employees;

• The company must continue to do business in the home country while business owners work in Canada.

Initial Investment for the ICT Program:

No minimum investment amount is required, but the foreign company (or the owner) must show sufficient funds in his/her bank account to start its operations in Canada. We recommend that applicants show a minimum of around $100,000.

Required Documents for the ICT program:

• Foreign company’s registration and ownership documents;

• Proof of active engagement in business for the foreign company (e.g. tax payments, bank statements; financial statements, licenses, permits and office lease; insurance/wage payments for employees, marketing material, contracts, etc.);

• Business owner’s personal documents (educational diplomas, employment letters, passport, marriage certificate, passport photo, bank statement);

• The business owner’s documents to confirm his employment at the foreign company for at least 12 months in the past 3 years (salary slips, dividend payments, employment insurance records, etc.).

• Canadian company’s registration and ownership documents (can be provided by your lawyer in Canada)

• A business plan for the Canadian company (can be provided by your lawyer in Canada).

The validity of the initial work permit for the ICT Program:

• 1-year work permit for new businesses/start-ups;

• 2-year work permit for established companies.

Family Members:

Family members can join the main applicant. The spouse may get an open work permit, and children may get study permits. Children may attend a public school for free.

Access to health care:

During the validity of their work permits, the applicant and their family members can access free health care.

Processing time for the ICT Work Permit:

1– 3 months on average

Conditions for the ICT work permit renewal:

Within the first year of operations, the company in Canada must demonstrate the following:

• Active engagement in business (it does not have to be profitable, but the company must be active).

• There is a physical office for the company in Canada (not a virtual office or home-based office)

• There is at least 1 employee working for the company in Canada.

How to get permanent residency using the ICT Program:

• Step 1: Establish a company in Canada.

• Step 2: Obtain a work permit to work in Canada as a Senior Executive or Manager;

• Step 3: Operate your business in Canada for at least 12 months;

• Step 4: Pass the language test at CLB level 7 for each band;

• Step 4: Apply for Canadian permanent residence using the “Job Offer” stream under the Express Entry program.

Costs & Expenses for the ICT program:

Legal fees start from $25,000 (per family) to obtain the initial work permit and may increase depending on the complexity of the application. Business operational costs in the first year: Minimum $50,000.

We suggest setting aside at least $150,000 – $200,000 to demonstrate to the Visa Office that you/your company has sufficient funds to expand to Canada.

Owner/Operator LMIA-based work visas

Owner/Operator work permits are available to foreign entrepreneurs and investors who wish to purchase a business or establish a new business in Canada and who want to work in that business in a managerial position. Typically, these professionals aim to immigrate to Canada permanently and obtain permanent resident status. Investors who are granted this type of visa will be required to become employees of his/her Canadian company. This means that the company must demonstrate that it is able to pay the applicant a wage that meets Canada’s median wage requirements for that occupation.

This is a two-step application. First, a businessperson must apply to the Employment and Skill Development Canada (ESDC) office to obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Once they have received a positive LMIA, the applicant can obtain a work visa that is valid for up to 2 years.

Once a work visa is obtained, the applicant can obtain permanent residence and usually apply for permanent residence through the Express Entry program.

Advantages of the Owner-Operator Program:

• No minimum investment amount, but investment must make sense given the business plan;

• Available to any nationality;

• No requirement for pre-existing foreign company(-ies);

• No need to maintain the operation of a foreign company;

• No minimum language requirements;

• Ability to apply for permanent residence immediately upon receiving a positive LMIA.

Disadvantages for foreign entrepreneurs in the Owner-Operator Program:

• Not suitable for start-up companies;

• Requires existing Canadian company with adequate financial performance;

• Requires investment to purchase at least 51% of shares without guarantee of success;

• Not the best model for tax purposes;

Who is eligible under the Owner-Operator Program: 

A foreign investor who has at least 51% of shares in the Canadian business.

Program requirements:

1. Active company in Canada that has been operational, preferably for at least 12 months.

2. Sufficient revenue or funds available for the company to support the employment of its foreign owner-operator;

3. Active management of the business by the foreign owner;

4. Employing at least one Canadian or permanent resident, ideally in the first year of employment of the foreign owner, to help meet the requirements for obtaining and maintaining permanent resident status.

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Initial Investment:

No minimum investment amount is specified, but the foreign business owners themselves should have sufficient funds to buy a business in Canada (usually $100,000+). In addition, the newly purchased Canadian company must show solid revenues for the past 12 months or sufficient funds in its bank account to pay the salary of the foreign owner (we recommend setting aside an additional $100,000 in liquid funds).

Required Documents:

• Proof of ownership of the Canadian company by the foreign national (registration documents or Share Purchase Agreement).

• Proof of sufficient revenue or funds in the bank account for the Canadian company;

• Proof of legitimacy of the business in Canada (e.g. marketing material, website, agreements, office rent, invoices, etc.)

• Foreign owner’s personal documents (educational diplomas, employment letters, passport, marriage certificate, passport photo, bank statements, proof of business experience & managerial experience, etc.);

• A business plan for the Canadian company (can be arranged by our office).

The validity of the initial work permit:

Two years

Conditions for work permit renewal:

Foreign investors will be able to renew their work permits in Canada for another 2- 6 years as long as the Canadian company can demonstrate that it is actively engaged in business and has met all the employment conditions stipulated in the initial application for its foreign owner.

Family Members:

Family members can join the main applicant. The spouse may get a work permit, and the children may get a study permit. The children may attend a public school for free. 

Access to healthcare:

The applicant and the family members can get access to free health care during the validity of their visas.

Processing times:

Generally, it takes 2-6 months to get LMIA approval.

Ability to stay permanently:

Foreign owner-operators of Canadian companies have solid chances of becoming permanent residents of Canada and subsequently obtaining Canadian citizenship, provided that they meet the following conditions:

• Have at least 1-year college degree equivalency;

• English/French at CLB level 7.

Expenses:

Starting from $25,000 in legal fees (depending on the applicant’s background, experience, language skills and citizenship);

Suggested investment amount: we suggest setting aside at least $150,000 – $200,000 to buy a business in Canada and another 100,000+ to operate it during the first 1-2 years of your employment in the business.

Significant Benefit Work Visa (C11)

This visa (referred to as the C-11 visa) works best for entrepreneurs who have unique businesses or specialized business know-how. The significant benefit work visa is also ideal for artists, sportspeople and investors since applicants need to demonstrate how their business or intended project will be either socially, culturally or economically beneficial to Canada.

Important factors for this type of work visa are uniqueness and the viability of the intended business or project in Canada. Such businesses or projects need to demonstrate that they offer a significant contribution to Canada that current residents and citizens could not provide. This aligns with the criteria seen in federal business immigration programs, such as Canada’s Self-Employed and Start-up Visas, which emphasize unique eligibility criteria and federal operation.

Professionals must present evidence of past personal accomplishments in business, such as operating a unique business. They must also be able to demonstrate demand for their products/services, how many offices they operate, the number of workers hired, the amount of revenue generated, sales of a self-designed product, etc.

For many years this type of work visa has been used by professional athletes, actors, dancers, and scientists, but recently it has become a viable option for accomplished business people. This group of applicants should be able to provide evidence of public recognition, for example, international interest, media coverage or important clientele.

Who is eligible under the Significant Benefit (C11) program for the Canadian economy:

Business owners who have unique businesses that provide unusual goods/services or know-how and intend to expand their business in Canada.

Program requirements:

Establish a company in Canada and demonstrate that the intended business would generate good economic growth and social or cultural benefits to permanent residents or citizens of Canada.

Initial Investment:

No minimum investment amount, but the foreign company (or the owner) must show sufficient funds in his/her bank account to start its operations in Canada (we recommend minimum equity investment around CAD$100,000).

Required Documents:

• Proof of business accomplishments or uniqueness of business or specialized know-how (e.g. patent applications, news articles, sketches, marketing materials, etc.);

• Applicant’s personal documents (educational diplomas, employment letters, passport, marriage certificate, passport photo, bank statements, proof of business experience and recognition such as prizes, news articles, international offers, etc.);

• A business plan for the Canadian company (this can be provided by a lawyer in Canada).

The validity of the initial work permit:

2-year work permit, renewable unlimited times.

Conditions for visa renewal:

Within the first 2 years, the Canadian company must make progress toward its goals, and the business must be operational (no profits are required).

Family Members:

Family members can join the main applicant. The spouse may get a work permit, and the children may get a study permit. The children may attend a public school for free. 

Access to health care:

The applicant and the family members can get access to free health care during the validity of their visas.

Processing time:

Generally, 10 days – 3 months

Ability to stay permanently:

Applicants have solid chances of becoming permanent residents of Canada and, subsequently, Canadian citizens, provided that they meet the following conditions:

• Have operated their company in Canada for at least 1 year;

• Have at least 1-year college degree equivalency;

• English/French at CLB level 7.

Expenses:

Starting from $25,000 in legal fees (depending on the applicant’s background, experience, language skills and citizenship);

Around $50,000 – minimum set-up and operation costs of the business in the first year. We suggest investing at least $150,000 – $200,000 into the new Canadian corporation to increase the strength of your application.

Get in touch with us if you would like to benefit from any of the above-noted pathways to Canada. Sobirovs Law Firm specializes in bringing established foreign businesses and brands to Canada.

IMPORTANT NOTE: We strongly suggest that you read the following important updates about these programs:

• “Canada’s 2025 Business Immigration: Key Changes & Success Strategies.“

• “New Changes Explained: Express Entry and LMIA-based job offer points.“

• “What Do the New Changes to the Owner-Operator LMIA mean?“

• “Crucial Updates to Canada’s C11 Application Process.“

Business Immigration Assessment and Planning

How to Assess Your Eligibility for Canadian Immigration

Assessing your eligibility for Canadian immigration is a crucial step in the business immigration process. To determine your eligibility, you should consider several key factors:

• Business Experience and Qualifications: Your past business experience and professional qualifications play a significant role in your eligibility. Canadian immigration programs often look for individuals with a proven track record of successful business management or ownership.

• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or French is essential. You may need to take a language test to demonstrate your abilities, as language skills are a critical component of most business immigration programs.

• Education and Credentials: Your educational background and any relevant credentials can impact your eligibility. Higher education levels and specialized training can be advantageous.

• Net Worth and Financial Resources: Your financial situation, including your net worth and available financial resources, will be assessed. This ensures you have the means to invest in and sustain a business in Canada.

• Business Plan and Proposal: A well-thought-out business plan and proposal are crucial. This document should outline your business idea, market research, financial projections, and how your business will benefit the Canadian economy.

To get a comprehensive understanding of your eligibility, you can use online assessment tools or consult with a business immigration lawyer. These resources can provide personalized advice and help you navigate the complexities of Canadian business immigration options.

The Importance of a Business Immigration Assessment

A business immigration assessment is essential to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for Canadian immigration. Conducting a thorough assessment offers several benefits:

• Identify the Most Suitable Program: With various business immigration programs available, an assessment helps you identify the one that best fits your needs and qualifications.

• Determine Required Documentation: Knowing what documentation and paperwork are needed can streamline the application process and reduce the risk of delays or rejections.

• Prepare a Strong Business Plan: A detailed assessment can guide you in preparing a robust business plan and proposal, which are critical components of your application.

• Increase Chances of Success: By understanding the requirements and preparing accordingly, you can significantly increase your chances of a successful application.

Conducting a business immigration assessment helps you avoid common mistakes and pitfalls that can lead to a rejected application. It is highly recommended to seek the advice of a business immigration lawyer to ensure you are well-prepared for the application process. A lawyer can provide expert guidance, help you gather the necessary documentation, and assist in crafting a compelling business plan that aligns with Canadian immigration requirements. Connect with our lawyers for more guidance.