INVEST IN CANADA

Permanent Residency to Citizenship Opportunities for High Net-worth Individuals and Entrepreneurs with

C11 SIGNIFICANT BENEFIT

Talent and Wealth Mobility

C11 Significant Benefit Work Permit

Fast-track to Empower Your Entrepreneurial Journey in Canada

The C11 Significant Benefit Work Permit (also known as the C11 Entrepreneur Visa/Work Permit) falls under the International Mobility Program (IMP). It is designed to enable foreign entrepreneurs and investors to acquire a work permit in Canada as self-employed individuals. Eligible C11 applicants must demonstrate that their business will bring significant economic, social, or cultural benefits to Canadians.

The C11 Significant Benefit Program stands out as a prominent LMIA-exempt option among Canadian immigration programs. It caters to individuals who do not intend to reside extensively in Canada but aim to temporarily establish a business in the country, particularly in remote rural regions. These entrepreneurs offer distinctive services or products with the potential to make a positive impact on Canadians.

Entrepreneurs and business owners operating under the C11 work permit may eventually qualify for permanent residency in Canada.

KEY FEATURES

Entrepreneurial Opportunity: The program provides foreign entrepreneurs and investors with the opportunity to establish and operate their new or acquired existing businesses in Canada.

Initial Work Permit: Successful applicants are typically granted an initial work permit for a duration of two years, with the possibility of extensions.

Spousal and Dependent Benefits: In most cases, the principal applicant's spouse and dependent children can also benefit from the C11 Significant Benefit Program by obtaining open work permits and study permits, respectively.

Expedited Application Process: The LMIA-exempt nature of the C11 work permit streamlines the application process, allowing qualified individuals to enter and begin contributing to Canada's growth possibly more quickly.

Path to Permanent Residency: Entrepreneurs operating under the C11 work permit may become eligible for permanent residency in Canada, provided they meet specified criteria and demonstrate continued business activity.

Significant Benefit Requirement: This is assessed through a comprehensive submission letter and business plan. These two components are essential for the application process, highlighting the potential benefits of the proposed business venture.

The C11 Significant Benefit Work Permit Program offers another alternative and a valuable opportunity for foreign entrepreneurs and investors to establish and operate businesses in Canada. Through this program, individuals can contribute to Canada's economy and society while pursuing their entrepreneurial goals. With careful preparation and adherence to program requirements, applicants can embark on a rewarding journey towards establishing a successful business venture in Canada.

Opportunities for international entrepreneurs to expand their business in Canada

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To be eligible for the C11 Significant Benefit Work Permit, applicants must first showcase how their prospective business in Canada will yield substantial advantages in one or more of the following domains:

Economic Benefit
- Potential to create or maintain employment for Canadians
- Transferring significant new skills or knowledge to Canada
- Generating significant economic activity or investment

Social or Cultural Benefit
- Enhancing Canada's social or cultural fabric
- Contributing to the development of important infrastructure or public services
- Promoting Canada's values and diversity on the global stage

DECISIVE AND REQUIRED FACTORS

Business Plan: The applicant must have a solid business plan that outlines the proposed business activities, including the products or services to be offered, the target market, and the financial projections.

Significant Benefit to Canada: increasing Canadian exports, advancing a sector, or carrying out development work in a particular area are some other examples of significant economic benefit.

Financial Capability: No fixed minimum personal net worth amount has been set by Immigration Canada. It varies depending on the specific area in the province or territory, and the business industry. Net assets are intended to ensure that the applicants have the financial resources to support their proposed business venture.

Investment Requirement: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) does not specify a minimum business investment required to qualify for the C11 entrepreneur work permit. Instead, immigration officers assess various factors such as industry specificity, types of businesses, and selected local areas to evaluate the potential to establish a sustainable business in Canada. This includes fostering job opportunities for Canadians and contributing to economic or social advancement. Business ownership or majority share in Canada should be at least 50%.

Business Experience: The applicant must have a certain level of business management or ownership experience, which helps ensure that candidates have the skills and knowledge necessary to operate their proposed business successfully.

Language Proficiency: It is strongly suggested that the applicants demonstrate language proficiency in English or French, depending on the province or territory.

Admissibility: The applicant must meet Canada's admissibility requirements, including passing medical examinations and security checks.

Operation Commitment: Applicants must actively engage in their proposed business activities to renew their temporary resident permits.

Navigating the complexities of the C11 Significant Benefit Program can be overwhelming, especially with the non-specificity of net worth or minimum investment required. That's where we come in. Our experienced immigration practitioners at Allumé Immigration will diligently guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you choose the right business opportunity for your unique situation.

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Note: These criteria are general and may change under IRCC regulations. It is essential to refer to official government sources for specific program details and the most up-to-date eligibility criteria. For accurate and current information on Canadian immigration policies, consider consulting licensed immigration practitioners.

The process involves two stages: Work Permit application and the optional Permanent Residence application.

I - C11 WORK PERMIT

Step 1: Business Idea Development

Conduct market research to identify target audience and analyze competitors.
Address specific problems with the solution, and validate the idea with a product-market fit, potentially securing paying customers.

Step 2: Business Plan Drafting

Craft a compelling CV for initial qualifications
Prepare a solid company's business plan, laying the foundation for success.

Step 3: Initiate Establishing the Business in Canada

Focus and engage on tangible pre-operational measures rather than solely demonstrating financial resources
Reach out to relevant organizations, suppliers, or customers in Canada to obtain Letters of Support for business endeavors.
Gather all required documents, including proof of language proficiency, entrepreneurial or managerial qualifications, financial resources, evidence of business implementation steps, and other pertinent supporting materials.

Step 4: C11 Work Permit Application

Submit the completed application to IRCC.
Expect to receive a decision from IRCC regarding your application within approximately 1-3 months after submission.

Step 5: Canada Landing

If approved, the permit holder, as a self-employed individual, will be authorized to work solely for their business in Canada and not for any other employer.
Accompanying family members of the main applicant will typically also receive an open work permit for the spouse and/or a study permit for dependent children, granting them the freedom to work for any employer or study in Canada.
The business must operate for at least 12 months if the permit holder plans to change their and their family's status from temporary residence to permanent residency.

II - WORK PERMIT CONVERSION TO PERMANENT RESIDENT STATUS

After maintaining at least 1 year of managing the business and work experience in Canada under the C11 Significant Benefit Program, the applicants and their accompanying families may be eligible to apply for permanent residence.
Depending on their preferences and how well they meet the criteria, the following permanent residence pathways may be considered:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) of the Express Entry System
- Various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
Specific requirements and application processes for each PR pathway will be customized accordingly at the opportune moment.

The application process and list of required documents are not exhaustive. Additional documents may be required based on the applicant's specific circumstances. Residents from member countries of International Trade Agreements can benefit from facilitating regulations and favourable treatment, including those from Australia (CPTPP), Japan (CPTPP), Mexico (CPTPP), New Zealand (CPTPP), Chile, Colombia, Peru, Korea, the European Union (CETA), the United States (CUSMA), and Mexico (CUSMA).

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Note: These application processes are general and subject to change under IRCC regulations. It is essential to refer to official government sources for specific program details and the most up-to-date processes. For accurate and current information on Canadian immigration policies, consider consulting licensed immigration practitioners.

Various immigration programs for high net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs.

This True North country, known for its stable and robust economy, provides a secure environment for your investments. Canada boasts a high standard of living, significant purchasing power, a strong and reliable banking system, and a well-regulated financial market, making it an attractive destination for investors and entrepreneurs worldwide.

Investing in Canada goes beyond financial gain. It means tapping into a vibrant and growing economy, benefiting from a supportive business environment that fosters global growth, and enjoying an exceptional quality of life.

Allumé Immigration will help you navigate the process and seize the opportunities that Canada offers.

Innovation Ecosystem

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT Canada actively encourages innovation through programs offering grants, tax breaks, and R&D funding, making it attractive for companies developing cutting-edge technologies. SKILLED WORKFORCE Canada boasts a highly educated and skilled multilingual workforce, providing access to top talent essential for businesses looking to grow and thrive in the competitive global market. THRIVING STARTUP CULTURE Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal boast a vibrant startup scene with access to venture capital and angel investors. GLOBAL INNOVATION INDEX Canada ranks 15th among the 132 economies featured in the GII 2023.

Business Environment

OPEN AND STABLE GOVERNMENT Canada offers a politically stable environment with clear and transparent regulations, fostering trust and predictability for businesses. FAVORABLE TAX STRUCTURE Canada has a competitive corporate tax rate and offers various tax benefits for investors and entrepreneurs, such as capital gains deductions. SAFETY AND SECURITY Canada is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, offering peace of mind for investors and their families. WORLD BANK DOING BUSINESS REPORT Canada typically ranks in the top 20 for ease of doing business in the World Bank Doing Business Report.

Access to Global Markets

LOCATION AND TRADE AGREEMENTS Canada's strategic location and its various free trade agreements with major economies, including the United States, Mexico, the European Union, and countries in the Asia-Pacific region (USMCA, CETA, CPTPP), give businesses in Canada preferential access to international markets, making it an ideal hub for global expansion. MULTICULTURAL MARKET Canada's diverse population presents a large and varied market with a high demand for innovative products and services. This multicultural population serves as excellent brand ambassadors to their countries of origin. CULTURAL RICHNESS More than 450 ethnic or cultural origins were reported in the 2021 Canada Census.

Other Advantages

DUAL CITIZENSHIP Canada recognizes dual citizenship, allowing investors and entrepreneurs to retain their original nationality while enjoying the benefits of Canadian citizenship. NATURAL RESOURCES Canada is rich in natural resources, creating opportunities for investment in sectors like mining, forestry, and clean energy. HIGH QUALITY OF LIFE Canada offers a high standard of living with excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure, making it an attractive destination for top talent and investors seeking a good work-life balance. WORLD HAPPINESS REPORT Published by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network. This report ranks countries based on factors like income, life expectancy, social support, freedom, trust, and generosity. Canada consistently ranks in the top 15.

Dynamic and thriving start-up culture in major cities

Why invest in Canada?

Explore Your Options

It’s crucial to understand the various provincial and federal business investment and immigration programs that Canada has to offer.

These programs are strategically designed to align with applicants' diverse profiles and aspirations, optimizing their chances for business development and ultimately achieving permanent residency and citizenship.

FEDERAL PROGRAMS

INTRA-COMPANY TRANSFER (ICT)

SIGNIFICANT BENEFIT (C11)

START-UP VISA (SUV)

PROVINCIAL PROGRAMS

PNP ENTREPRENEUR STREAM

QUEBEC ENTREPRENEUR PROGRAM

QUEBEC IMMIGRANT INVESTOR PROGRAM (QIIP)

Invest in Canada Key Benefits

Expand your business into a stable and thriving economic environment with access to the U.S. and global markets.

Obtain a work permit to start operating your business in Canada immediately and bring your family with you.

Gain access to Canada's world-class healthcare system, education, and social benefits.

Enjoy a high quality of life in one of the most livable countries in the world.

Become eligible for permanent residency whether your business venture is successful or not.

Pave the way to Canadian citizenship for you, your spouse, and your dependent children.

Find the Optimal Pathway

There are two main categories of pathways for business immigration available to foreign investors and entrepreneurs:

Direct PR: These programs offer a clear path to permanent residency from the outset. Examples include the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP), Start-Up Visa (SUV), and all Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Entrepreneur Streams.

Non-direct PR: Programs such as the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) and C11 Significant Benefit initially allow applicants to enter Canada on a temporary basis, with the potential to transition to permanent residency later by combining with another PR program.

Applicants and their families from both categories can benefit from arrangements that allow them to enter Canada early to establish their businesses.