Entrepreneur C11 Visa

The C11 permit allows business owners and self-employed individuals to work in Canada. This is a popular way for self-employed people, business owners, as well as their families to move to a developed country and work toward permanent residency in Canada. Under Canada’s International Mobility Program, businesses can bring in foreign workers without needing an LMIA. A C11 program is part of this and lets self-employed individuals, as well as business owners, apply for a work permit.

Categories of Qualified Employers for C11 Entrepreneur Visa

This visa applies to two primary groups of individuals:

• Individuals Applying for Temporary Entry Through Business Ventures
• Individuals Seeking a Visa Under the Self-Employed Permanent Residency Program

Who Can Apply for the C11 Visa

• Entrepreneurs planning to start or manage a business in Canada.
• Self-employed individuals with specialized skills or experience.
• Business owners expanding their operations to Canada.
• Foreign investors looking to establish a company in Canada.
• Applicants who can prove their business will benefit Canada’s economy, culture, or society.
• Individuals who meet the financial and experience requirements for business ownership.

Requirements for the C11 Work Permit

• Experience and skills to successfully start and run a business.
• Enough funds to buy and manage a business in Canada.
• Minimum 50% ownership of the business you start or take over.
• A well-planned business idea with good chances of success.
• A business that positively contributes to Canada and its people.

To apply successfully, you need to arrange funding, plan your team, choose the right location, set up the required infrastructure, and connect with people in Canada.

Benefits of the C11 program

• Fast processing time, usually around 6 months for a work permit.
• No requirement for a minimum net worth.
• No fixed amount needed for investment.
• Spouses can get an open work permit, and children can apply for a study permit or temporary visa.
• Freedom to start a business anywhere in Canada.
• Option to extend the C11 work permit if the business remains active.
• Another route for business owners besides the Owner/Operator work permit.
• Opportunity to apply for permanent residency.

What are the Benefits to the Canada

The decision to approve or deny a C11 work permit depends on whether the business brings important benefits to Canada. The immigration officer reviews the business plan based on factors such as:

• Creating jobs that support economic growth, trade, or business development.
• Helping advance industries in Canada.
• Benefiting society without negatively affecting existing businesses.

Two-Step Process for Immigration with the C11 Visa

Getting a C11 work permit does not automatically grant permanent residency. The process has two steps:

1. Obtain the C11 Work Permit – Apply and get approval to work in Canada.
2. Apply for Permanent Residency – To qualify, you must:

• Successfully run your business in Canada for a minimum of 12 months with a valid permit.
• Meet the basic requirements of the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
• Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through Express Entry from IRCC.

Processing Time for the C11 Work Permit

The processing time for a C11 work permit depends on your country of residence and typically takes between 6 to 12 months. This timeframe does not include the additional time required for biometrics (fingerprints as well as photos), medical exams, or sending and receiving your passport with the visa.

How CWC Can Help?

Before applying for the C11 Entrepreneur Visa, seeking guidance from experienced professionals is important. The CWC offers expert immigration assistance in Canada. CWC also provides a FREE assessment to help you understand your eligibility. Get in touch with us to book a consultation.