Owner Operator Visa

The Owner Operator Visa is a particular immigration pathway for entrepreneurs and business owners who wish to launch purchase and manage a company in Canada. Foreign nationals can more easily obtain a work permit with this visa if they demonstrate significant ownership and an active managerial role within a Canadian company.

Different Kinds of Owner-Operator Work Permits

1. Owner-Operator Work Permit Based on Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): 

Essential Key Requirements:

• Demonstrate Control and Ownership: It is necessary for applicants to have a majority stake in the company, typically at least 51 percent of its shares to demonstrate ownership and control.
• Active Management: The candidate must play an active role in the day-to-day operations and decision-making processes of the company.
• Job Creation Plan: The company should be able to hire or retain Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
• Business viability: It is necessary to have a thorough business plan that shows the company’s sustainability and financial stability.
• Pay Standards: The candidate must be paid at least the median wage in the area where the job is being filled.

2. Owner-Operator Work Permit Under the International Mobility Program (IMP):

Key Requirements:

• Important Advantage for Canada: The company must offer the nation significant advantages in terms of the economy society or culture.
• Command and Possession: Candidates must possess a minimum of fifty percent of the business to ensure control over their management.
• Active Participation: Demonstrating your commitment to actively managing the business is essential.
• Employer Compliance: An offer of employment made through the Employer Portal must be accompanied by payment of employer compliance fees.

LMIA-Based Work Permit Key Requirements

Candidates who wish to apply for an Owner-Operator Work Permit based on LMIA must fulfill the following requirements.

• Demonstrate Ownership and Control: A minimum of 51 percent of the Canadian company must be owned by you to demonstrate your controlling interest in it.
• Management in Action: Engage in the day-to-day operations and strategic decisions that the organization makes as part of active management.
• Job Creation Plan: Provide a workable plan to employ Canadian citizens or permanent residents to create jobs and support the local labor market.
• Business Plan: Offer a thorough and practical business plan that includes financial forecasts, market research, and operational strategies.
• Sufficient Funds: Demonstrate that you have enough money to invest in and maintain the business.
• Wage Compliance: Verify that the compensation meets or surpasses the median wage requirements for the occupation and geographic area.

More Key Conditions

• Proficiency in Language: Although it is not always required knowing English or French can improve a company’s ability to operate successfully and integrate into the Canadian market.
• Non-Dismissible Position: As an owner-operator the candidate requires a position that demonstrates their significant control over the business and cannot be removed.
• Adherence to Canadian Laws: It is crucial to abide by all local and federal laws including those governing employment and immigration.

How CWC Can Help?

Entering the Owner Operator Visa pathway gives business owners a special chance to build a successful company and support the Canadian economy. CWC has been unlocking immigration success since 2005. Our professional team always makes sure all required paperwork, financial information, and other supporting documents are accurate and comprehensive. Contact us today for a FREE assessment to get started.