At Sawubona Canada Immigration, we specialize in guiding entrepreneurs and business owners from around the world through the C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit — one of Canada’s most exciting business immigration opportunities.
If you are an entrepreneur anywhere globally and looking to expand your business into Canada, the C11 pathway may be the right choice for you.
✅ What is the C11 Work Permit?
The C11 Work Permit is a temporary work permit under Canada’s International Mobility Program (IMP). It is designed for entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals who want to establish or operate a business in Canada that will provide significant economic, social, or cultural benefits.
A major advantage of this program is that it is LMIA-exempt, meaning you don’t need a Labour Market Impact Assessment to hire yourself.
🧾 Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the C11 Work Permit, you should be able to demonstrate:
- Ownership: At least 51% ownership in a Canadian business.
- Experience: Proven track record as a business owner, entrepreneur, or senior manager.
- Business Plan: A realistic plan showing how your business will create jobs, innovate, or provide cultural/social value to Canada.
- Active Involvement: You intend to personally manage the day-to-day operations.
- Financial Capacity: Proof you have the funds to establish and run the business, as well as support your family.
💰 Minimum Investment
There is no officially required minimum, but your investment must be substantial and reasonable for the type of business.
- In practice, investments usually range between CAD $50,000 – $200,000+, depending on industry.
- The focus is on whether your business will be sustainable and beneficial to Canada.
📍 What Types of Businesses Qualify?
The C11 Work Permit is flexible and can be used across many industries, including:
- Technology startups & IT services
- Professional services (consulting, healthcare, education)
- Food & hospitality businesses
- Manufacturing, logistics, and trade companies
- Creative and cultural ventures
📅 Duration of the C11 Work Permit
- Typically issued for 1–2 years.
- Renewable if your business remains active and viable.
- Often used as a stepping stone towards Permanent Residency (PR) through federal or provincial programs.
🏆 Benefits of the C11 Work Permit
- No LMIA required → faster processing.
- Permission to run and expand your own business in Canada.
- Family benefits: spouse can get an open work permit; children can study in Canada.
- Clear pathway to Permanent Residency.
🔑 Application Process
- Business Plan Preparation – show clear benefits to Canada.
- Business Incorporation/Ownership Proof – register or acquire the Canadian entity.
- Application Submission – with supporting documents (financials, experience, intent).
- Work Permit Approval – arrive in Canada and start operating your business.
- Transition to PR – once the business demonstrates real impact.
💡 Expert Tips from Sawubona Canada
- Tailor your business plan: IRCC wants to see local benefit, not just personal gain.
- Highlight job creation: even if small, it shows economic contribution.
- Choose the right location: smaller cities often improve approval chances.
- Show temporary intent: C11 is a work permit first — always emphasize that you intend to comply with Canadian regulations.
🚀 Why Work With Sawubona Canada Immigration?
At Sawubona Canada, we have helped entrepreneurs from around the globe successfully navigate the C11 pathway. Our team will:
- Assess your eligibility honestly.
- Help design a strategic business plan.
- Prepare and submit a strong application package.
- Support you with settlement and expansion once you arrive in Canada.
📞 Take the First Step
Are you an entrepreneur or business owner ready to expand into Canada?
👉 Contact us on whatsapp http://wa.me/16475589000 today to discuss your C11 Work Permit eligibility.
Your Canadian business journey starts here.