Foreigners can start a business or purchase/franchise an existing Canada-based business and turn it into a profitable entity with the C11 Work Permit.

Two types of entrepreneurs can benefit from the program. The entrepreneurs who want a temporary stay in Canada based on their business plans and career, and the entrepreneurs and self-employed people seeking permanent residency in Canada.

Usually, entrepreneurs get a C11 Work permit valid for 2 years, come to Canada, run their businesses at minimum for a year, then apply for permanent residency if they decide to stay.

Note: Under the C 11 Work Permit, the spouse/partner of an entrepreneur is also granted an Open Work Permit enabling them to work for any employer and their children can study in Canada.


Requirements 

A foreign national applying to operate a business in Canada needs to convince the immigration officers that he/she will generate significant economic, social, or cultural benefits/opportunities for Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Canadian immigration officials measure “significant benefit” by considering the following factors or requirements: 

Experience

Applicants must have a particular background and skills to set up/purchase a successful business. 

Ownership 

Applicants must have at least 50% of the proposed business ownership that they plan to establish/buy in Canada. They must demonstrate evidence of having the financial ability to begin the business and pay expenditures.

Business plan 

Applicants must have a well-thought-out business plan that is realistic and makes sense in practical settings. Priority will be given to those who can demonstrate the following indicators of “significant benefit”:

General economic stimulus. For example, if the proposed business entails: 

• creating new jobs, 
• growth of the export market for Canadian products/services, or 
• development work in any particular region of Canada.

Industry advancement in the country. For example, if the proposed business promises:

• technological development, 
• product/service innovation, differentiation, or 
• to improve the Canadian workforce's skills
   

Groundwork

Applicants must have done some preliminary actions to establish their business in Canada before applying for the C11 Work Permit. As the initial or introductory actions they must: 

• have secured financial resources for the establishment of the business;
• have a staffing plan ready;
• have an idea about the location to buy/get on rent;
• have started developing a network of Canadian associates, suppliers, and vendors.

Note: In cases where a significant benefit is being argued, the applicant may provide information from organizations in Canada that can support the application. For example, if an applicant wishes to be self-employed in the tourism industry, officers could request that the applicant provide further submissions from the provincial tourism authority to assist in determining whether the activity would be beneficial or actually impinge on Canadian service providers. Other sources of information and advice include local Canadian Chambers of Commerce and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).

Language

Candidates must have enough English or French skills to conduct their business in Canada. It is not a general requirement, however, immigration officers may request evidence of English or French language.