A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that Canadian employers may need to hire foreign workers, proving no Canadian is available for the job. The process involves applying to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) with job details and recruitment efforts​.

The C11 Exemption allows entrepreneurs to bypass the traditional LMIA process by demonstrating significant economic, social, or cultural benefits through their business ventures. This streamlines entry for foreign entrepreneurs​.

Applicants must be entrepreneurs or self-employed individuals seeking to establish or buy a business in Canada. They need to provide a detailed business plan, show financial capability, and prove significant benefits to Canada.

To demonstrate "significant benefit," applicants need to show how their business will positively impact Canada. Key criteria include:

• Economic Stimulus: Evidence of job creation for Canadians or economic growth in the local area.

• Market Needs: Addressing gaps in the market or providing unique products/services.

• Cultural/Social Contributions: Enhancing cultural diversity or social welfare.

While there is no specific minimum investment, applicants should budget at least $250,000 for the business and an additional $100,000 for initial operating expenses to demonstrate financial capability and business viability​.

The C11 program primarily provides temporary work permits. However, successful entrepreneurs who establish and operate their business for at least 12 months may transition to permanent residency through other immigration streams:

• Express Entry: Entrepreneurs can qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, or Canadian Experience Class.

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Provinces may nominate successful business owners based on their economic contributions and business performance.

Applicants need to meet specific criteria for these programs, such as language proficiency, work experience, and business success​

Applicants must submit a comprehensive package, including:

• Business Plan: Detailed and tailored, covering market research, competitor analysis, and financial forecasts.

• Proof of Financial Capability: Bank statements, investment proofs, or financial guarantees showing funds for business setup and operations.

• Entrepreneurial Experience: Evidence of past business ownership or management, such as resumes, references, and business registration documents.

• Initial Business Activities: Lease agreements, staffing plans, contracts with vendors or clients, and evidence of initial steps taken to launch the business.

• Supporting Letters: Letters from industry stakeholders, community leaders, or potential clients supporting the business's benefits to Canada

While there are no explicit restrictions, businesses must provide significant benefits to Canada. Priority industries include:

• Aerospace

• Automotive

• Chemical & Biochemical

• Cleantech

• Financial Services

• Food & Beverage Manufacturing

• Forestry

• Industrial Automation and Robotics

• IT

• Life Sciences

• Mining

• Tourism

To apply for a C11 work permit, follow these steps:

1. Identify and Establish Your Business: Choose a viable business idea or purchase an existing business in Canada that aligns with your skills and can demonstrate significant benefit to the country.

2. Develop a Detailed Business Plan: Prepare a comprehensive business plan including market analysis, competitor research, financial forecasts, and an explanation of how your business will benefit Canada economically, socially, or culturally.

3. Initiate Business Operations: Begin initial business activities such as securing a physical location, obtaining necessary permits and licenses, setting up operational processes, and hiring key staff members. These actions will demonstrate your commitment and the viability of your business.

4. Gather Required Documentation: Collect essential documents such as proof of financial capability (e.g., bank statements, investment evidence), proof of business experience (e.g., resumes, business registration documents), and any support letters from potential clients or stakeholders.

5. Submit the Work Permit Application: Complete and submit the work permit application via the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal, including all necessary documentation and paying the applicable fees.

6. Seek Professional Guidance: Consider consulting with an immigration lawyer or a consultancy firm specializing in the C11 program to ensure your application is complete and meets all regulatory requirements. Professional advice can help streamline the process and address any potential issues.

Yes, your spouse can receive an open work permit, and your dependent children can obtain study permits. This allows the entire family to live and work in Canada during the entrepreneur's stay