Two-Stage Immigration for Entrepreneurs under IMP C11
| IRCC has updated the criteria for IMP C11. Please visit the updated article instead of the current page. |
If you have a business mind and enough expertise, you could immigrate to Canada with the help of IMP C11 in two stages. Please read this article carefully and remember the immigration policies could change at any time. An option that is available today may vanish tomorrow.
Stage 1 – Work Permit under the IMP C11
The International Mobility Program (IMP) paves the way to apply for a Work Permit without a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The LMIA process is tedious and prone to refusal. Consequently, about two-thirds of those who receive Canadian work permits use one of the IMP programs (e.g. the Mobility Francophone, etc.). One of the IMP options is the LMIA exemption code C11. This code is for entrepreneurs or self-employed people who meet the following requirements*:
- They have the skills and background to establish a successful business in Canada or purchase an existing one and turn it into a successful business.
- They own at least 50% of the business they establish or purchase in Canada.
- Their activities in Canada creates significant cultural, social, or economic benefits to our country (e.g. contributes to remote areas, creates jobs for Canadians, exports Canadian goods to other countries, contributes to technological development, shows to be innovative in nature, helps Canadians to hone their skills, etc.)
- They present a business plan that is meaningful and viable.
- They have taken steps to make their plans happen before entering Canada (e.g. they have established the business, they have secured enough financial resources for the business, have contacted parallel businesses in Canada, and have signed agreements with Canadian suppliers, etc.)
This work permit is limited to one applicant as the applicant needs to hold the business’s controlling shares. If you want to know more about this option, read the following articles:
- Job Creators Work Permit Canada
- Liabilities Corporate Directors Canada
- Minimum Investment for Job Creators Work Permit
Stage 2 – Applying for Permanent Residence after IMP C11
IMP C11 work permit does not result in permanent residency by default. In fact, dual intention for permanent residency is currently limited to the following immigration options:
- Immigration to Canadian provinces as a business person or entrepreneur (PNP programs)
- Immigration to Quebec as a self-employed person
Despite limitations on dual intent, an applicant who moves to Canada under this program and works for at least one year could apply under the Federal Skilled Worker program category through the Express Entry system. To apply for permanent residency, you need to meet the following criteria:
- Actively manage your business in Canada for at least 12 consecutive months with a valid work permit. This option is important as you will receive up to 200 CRS points (conditions apply – subject to change in the future)
- Meet the minimum requirements for the Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Enter the Express Entry pool and receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from IRCC
I must emphasize that your intention, in the beginning, needs to be the Work Permit alone. If you decide to immigrate to Canada after a year of work experience, you may consider stage 2. Also, consider the fact that immigration options could change at any time. Therefore this option may not necessarily be available to you when you complete one year of work in Canada. Also, explore potential PNP options.
What Happens to the Family of the Applicant
If you receive a work permit to Canada, which is valid for at least six months, your spouse qualifies to receive an open work permit that allows her to work in Canada for any employer. Your minor children may also study in Canada without a study permit. Of course, an immigration officer has the final say to issue a work permit or visa for your dependent family members.
Let us help!
If you would like to apply for the IMP C11 work permit, submit the following form. However, you may alternatively book a consultation session with me or fill out our assessment form. If you are filling out the following form, make sure to be as thorough as possible.
* Resource: IRCC Operational Instructions: International Mobility Program: Canadian interests – Significant benefit – Entrepreneurs/self-employed candidates seeking to operate a business [R205(a) – C11]
If you wish to visit or move to Canada, please fill out our free assessment form. We will review it for free, but we will contact you only if we find an opportunity for you. Alternatively, you may book a consultation session. Consultation sessions are not free, but you will receive formal advice from a licenced practitioner.
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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