The end of owner/operator LMIA! What is the alternative?
The Canadian government has marked April 1, 2021, the end date of owner/operator LMIA. Of course, you may still request an LMIA to run your own business in Canada. However, you must go through the normal process of a high-wage or low-wage application. For most applicants, this is an impossible option. So, is there an alternative?
What was the owner/operator LMIA?
The owner/operator LMIA was an opportunity for entrepreneurs to work and immigrate to Canada. You could purchase an existing business in Canada or establish a new one. Afterwards, you could hire yourself as a senior manager of the company. However, you had to go through the LMIA process. Unlike a regular high-wage/low-wage LMIA, you did not post job ads. By receiving a positive LMIA, you could obtain a work permit in Canada. Moreover, you could receive up to 200 CRS points for Express Entry. The end of owner/operator LMIA means those perks are off the table.
Is there an alternative for entrepreneurs?
The closest alternative to the owner/operator LMIA is IMP C11. Of course, in the latter, you may apply for a work permit without an LMIA. The following table compares these two options.
| Issue | Owner/Operator | IMP C11 |
| Business ownership in Canada | Yes | Yes |
| Senior management or business experience outside Canada | Yes | Yes |
| Work permit application | You need a positive or neutral LMIA letter first. | No need for an LMIA |
| Job creation in Canada | Yes | Yes |
| CRS points because of the job offer from your own company | Yes, immediately | Yes, but only after one year of working in Canada |
Of course, this table is brief. The devil is in the details. Read my articles on IMP C11 for more information:
- Two-Stage Immigration for Entrepreneurs under IMP C11
- Minimum Investment for Job Creators Work Permit
- Register a Business in Canada – For Visa and Immigration Applicants
- Liabilities Corporate Directors Canada
Disappointed with the discontinuation of the owner/operator LMIA? Let us help!
If you had plans to apply under the owner/operator LMIA, please contact us via the following form. However, you may alternatively book a consultation session with me.
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Al Parsai, MA, DTM, RCIC
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant
Ashton College Instructor – Immigration Consulting
Author – 88 Tips on Immigration to Canada
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