C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit
Start your Canadian business—without an LMIA
The C11 Work Permit under the International Mobility Program (IMP) allows foreign entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals to enter Canada temporarily to establish and operate their own business. As an LMIA-exempt pathway, it offers a streamlined route for business owners whose work will generate significant economic, social, or cultural benefits for Canadians.
Why Choose the C11 Program?
No LMIA Required
Skip the Labour Market Impact Assessment process
Full Ownership (51%+)
Maintain majority control of your Canadian business
Flexible Business Structures
Suitable for entrepreneurs, self-employed, and startups
Expertise Leverage
Use your skills and experience to benefit Canada
Fill Market Gaps
Address unmet needs in the Canadian market
Understanding the Dual Role
A C11 application is unique because you act as both employer and employee. This means you must satisfy the requirements for both roles.
As the Employer
- Submit an offer of employment to yourself through the IRCC Employer Portal
- Pay the $230 employer compliance fee
- Demonstrate your business will provide significant benefit to Canada
As the Employee
- Prove you have the qualifications and experience required to perform the work
- Demonstrate language abilities required to run the business successfully
- Show you have the resources to establish and operate the business
Core Requirements
Significant Benefit
Your business must generate clear economic, social, or cultural benefits for Canadians. Officers assess this based on:
Create employment opportunities for Canadians
Contribute to local economic growth
Bring new products or services to Canada
Introduce new technologies or processes
Share specialized knowledge with Canadians
Majority Ownership
You must control at least 51% of the Canadian business. This ensures you are the primary decision-maker and beneficiary of the business activities.
Who is the C11 For?
- Entrepreneurs (NOC 00018) - Business owners who organize and manage
- Self-Employed Individuals - Professionals who work for themselves
Proof of Funds
You must demonstrate two separate pools of funds
Support Funds (Personal)
- Sufficient to support yourself and any dependents during your stay
- Must meet the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) for your family size for a minimum of 18 months
- Must be transferable, available, and unencumbered by debts
- Can include cash, bank deposits, stocks, bonds, or wages from an existing business
Business Funds
- Separate from your support funds
- Sufficient to establish and/or operate the business
- Must include proof of provenance (where the funds came from)
- Should cover start-up costs, supplies, initial wages, and operating expenses during ramp-up period
Ability to Perform the Work
You must satisfy the officer that you can actually operate the business successfully
Relevant Experience
Managing a business, ideally in the same industry sector
Language Proficiency
Sufficient to perform duties, negotiate contracts, and manage staff
Education & Training
Compatible with the business (e.g., food safety certification for restaurants)
Your Application Journey
From initial assessment to establishing your Canadian business
Eligibility Assessment
Evaluate your business concept and qualifications against C11 requirements
Strategic Business Planning
Develop a comprehensive business plan demonstrating significant benefit
Document Gathering
Compile proof of experience, qualifications, and business viability
Application Preparation
Complete employer and employee applications through IRCC Portal
Submission & Processing
Submit applications and respond to any additional requests
Canadian Establishment & Growth
Arrive in Canada and begin operating your business
Ready to Start Your Canadian Business?
Book a consultation to assess your eligibility for the C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit and develop a strategic plan for your Canadian business venture.
Book Your Consultation