Canada-Significant Benefit Work Visa (C11)

The C11 work permit, part of Canada's International Mobility Program (IMP), is designed for entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals seeking to establish or operate a business in Canada. It is not intended for cultural, sports, or recreational activities. While individuals may have different motivations (managing an existing business temporarily vs. establishing a new business with the aim of eventually applying for permanent residence), the C11 work permit itself is the vehicle for both.

The C11 work permit allows entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals to come to Canada to engage in activities related to their business, such as attending conferences or conducting market research. A self-employed person is typically someone who owns and runs a business, often without hiring employees outside of their family. An entrepreneur is someone who organizes and manages a business, often taking on significant financial risk and employing others.

Eligibility Requirements for the C11 Work Permit:

Applicants must meet specific requirements, and simply owning a business in their home country does not guarantee approval. Key factors include:

Demonstrated history and experience in establishing successful ventures, or the resources to acquire an existing Canadian business.

Significant ownership (generally at least 50%, though this is not a strict requirement) and active involvement in the Canadian business.

A comprehensive and detailed business plan for the Canadian business.

The potential for the business to provide significant benefits to Canada (e.g., job creation, economic growth, innovation).

Thorough research and analysis of the relevant industry and market in Canada.

Eligible Businesses:

Both seasonal businesses (e.g., bed and breakfast operators, gold miners, wildlife guides) and year-round businesses (e.g., automotive repair shops, hair salons) can be eligible. For seasonal businesses, the temporary nature must be clearly explained. For all businesses, the applicant must demonstrate their intention to operate the business and comply with the terms of their work permit. There isn’t a fixed “list” of eligible business types for the C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit. Instead, eligibility depends on whether your business meets key criteria such as demonstrating a robust, sustainable business plan, potential for job creation, and a positive economic impact. That said, many service-based and innovative ventures can qualify. For example, businesses like:

Lawn care and landscaping

Moving services

Chimney sweeping

Outdoor adventure companies

Pool maintenance services

Personal training or coaching

may be eligible if you can clearly show their long?term viability and contribution to the economy. On the other hand, a highly seasonal business (for instance, a Christmas/Halloween retailer) might face extra scrutiny unless you can outline strategies for maintaining profitability and growth year?round. Ultimately,it’s not the industry itself but how your business plan aligns with the program’s requirements. For tailored advice, consider reviewing the official guidelines or consulting with an immigration professional.

Key Features of the C11 Work Permit:

Provides an opportunity for entrepreneurs to establish and grow their businesses in Canada.

Issued under the IMP.

Initially valid for two years and can be extended.

Does not lead directly to permanent residence.

Exempt from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirement.

Who Should Apply?

The C11 work permit is suitable for:

Self-employed professionals looking to start a business in Canada.

Entrepreneurs seeking to purchase an existing business or franchise in Canada.

Individuals nominated through the Entrepreneur streams of the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

Path to Canadian Permanent Residence:

The C11 work permit is a pathway to, but not a guarantee of, permanent residence. The process involves two steps:

Operating the business in Canada for at least 12 consecutive months under a valid C11 work permit.

Meeting the requirements of a permanent residence program, most likely the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) through Express Entry. The Canadian work experience gained under the C11 work permit significantly increases the applicant's Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, improving their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. Simply holding a C11 work permit does not guarantee an ITA. Applicants must still meet all the requirements of the PR program they apply under.

The C11 work permit, part of Canada's International Mobility Program (IMP), enables foreign entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals to come to Canada and operate their own businesses. This work permit, typically issued for an initial period of two years, can be renewed as long as the business remains active and profitable.