C11 Work Permit venue is one of the business immigration programs offering a distinctive route for foreign entrepreneurs to come to Canada to do business, gain Canadian experience and eventually secure Canadian Permanent residency.
Despite the numerous benefits offered under C11, it remains one of the “hidden jewels” of Canadian immigration, which is still not well understood and often considered very complex to be used by the foreign businesspeople.
It allows foreign entrepreneurs obtain a work permit in Canada by creating their own employment via buying a Canadian business, becoming a major shareholder of the Canadian business, opening a new business etc. The Initial work permit may be issued for up to two years, as per the applicant’s request and officer’s judgement. It is extendable, if the business in Canada is operational and profitable.
At Desjardins Lawyers, we would like to assist our clients explore this amazing opportunity and use it for their immigration needs.
To qualify under the C11 category, you would need to submit documentary evidence of the following:
You acquired an existing business in Canada or became a majority shareholder of the business in Canada (at least 50%).
You have the relevant experience and capacity to operate your business in Canada.
You have the financial capacity to develop and operate the business in Canada as per the business plan.
Your business plan is viable and can be accomplished.
You have taken substantial efforts to execute your business in Canada – for example, you secured finances for the establishment of the business, staffing plan ready and shortlist a location to buy/get on rent before applying for the C11 work permit. Similarly, you must have started developing a network of Canadian associates, suppliers and vendors.
Exploratory visit is highly recommended prior to applying for C11 work permit, if possible.
Your business will generate “significant benefit to Canada.
Should you Start a New Business in Canada or Buy an Existing Business?
Coming to Canada by starting a new business provides many immigration opportunities. However, starting a brand-new business in a foreign country can be difficult and risky if you lack experience in the new market. That’s why buying a franchise in Canada can be an attractive option for business immigrants. They offer multiple advantages that foreign investors usually lack: brand awareness and established customer base, proven methods of doing business, marketing support and training in the specific industry. This all can reduce the risk of failure for investors and allow them to draw on existing clientele that the already established brand name has captured.
The answer depends on your business vision, experience, available capital and how confident you feel about operating your business in Canada.
We suggest that you buy a Franchised business if:
You want to learn how to operate a business in Canada and do not mind limiting your entrepreneurial freedom.
You value certainty and do not mind lower profit margins (between 5% – 15%).
Your budget is up to CAN$300 000.
You should consider buying a Non-franchised business if:
You like to have a certain degree of certainty but do not want to limit your entrepreneurial freedom to operate your business.
You have sufficient financial resources to invest in your business and have additional funds to cover operating expenses (CAN$200 000 – CAN$500,000)
You can tolerate moderate amounts of risk.
We suggest starting your own business, if:
You are confident in your abilities to run a business in Canada and excited to engage with your business daily;You value certainty and do not mind lower profit margins.
You have significant expertise in a particular field and have prior entrepreneurial experience;Your budget is up to CAN$300 000.
You are not afraid to take risks and want to invest your time and efforts to build a great business in Canada and generate solid revenues for your business (over 20% margins).
You have sufficient financial resources to invest in your business for the first two years before your business starts generating solid returns.
What Kind of Business Should I Buy Under the C11 Program?
When searching for the right business to buy, you should look for businesses in the following priority industries:
Aerospace
Automotive
Chemical & Biochemical
Cleantech
Financial Services
Food & Beverage Manufacturing
Forestry
Industrial Automation and Robotics
IT
Life Sciences
Mining
Tourism
It has been observed that entrepreneurs and businessmen who plan to have a primary residence outside Canada easily get the C11 work permit. Among those entrepreneurs, the ones owning or planning to set up seasonal businesses even have a better success rate with C11 work permit applications.
Some of the seasonal businesses/self-employed ventures that have good scope and can be started in Canada are as follows:
Outdoor Adventure Company
Lawn care and landscaping
Chimney sweeping service
Cleantech
Moving services
Christmas/Halloween retailer
Pool maintenance services
IT
Personal trainer or coach
Additional Questions and Answers
How much money should I invest into a business in Canada to become eligible for immigration?
Immigration Canada does not set a minimum business investment required to become eligible for the C11 entrepreneur work permit and/or permanent residence. However, your ability to create a viable business in Canada that will provide employment opportunities to Canadians and contribute to the economic or social development of the region where your business is based is an important factor that the immigration officer will consider when assessing your application.
Therefore, we suggest that you focus on buying or creating a prosperous business rather than your immigration paperwork since the primary criterion for your application success is your business’ success. Based on our experience, you should budget to invest at least $250 000 into a business in Canada and set aside approximately $100 000 for operating expenses during the initial year.
Can my family be included in the C11 application?
Yes, your spouse can apply to accompany you to Canada and receive an open work permit during your stay in Canada. Your dependent children can also obtain authorization to study in Canada and join you during your stay in Canada. You and your family members also may be eligible to access the provincial health care system, and your children may attend public schools for free.
Can my spouse work for my business in Canada?
If your spouse is issued an open work permit, they can work for your business. Keep in mind that your spouse will not be counted towards your company’s creation of job opportunities for Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
How can your firm help with my C11 application?
DL has extensive experience in business immigration, including C11 applications. Our lawyers provide tailor-made solutions specifically for you. We develop an immigration strategy that we know will work for you, and we are by your side every step of your immigration journey. With us, you can focus on your business while we take care of all your business immigration needs.
