C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit

An LMIA-exempt work permit for owner-operators of a Canadian business.

The C11 work permit lets an entrepreneur who owns or will own a significant stake in a Canadian business work in Canada without an LMIA, where the venture provides a significant economic, social, or cultural benefit. It is often a first step toward permanent residence through a provincial or federal business pathway.

Who it’s for

• Owner-operators buying or starting a Canadian business
• Entrepreneurs with a viable, benefit-generating venture
• Founders planning a later business-PR pathway

Key facts

• LMIA-exempt under the significant-benefit provision
• Usually requires a controlling or substantial ownership stake
• Needs a credible business plan and proof of benefit to Canada
• Note: the federal Start-Up Visa is paused to new applicants in 2026

How it works

1. Build the business case: Prepare a business plan showing ownership, viability, and benefit to Canada.
2. Establish or acquire the business: Incorporate or purchase, and document your controlling/substantial stake.
3. Apply for the C11 work permit: File under the significant-benefit (C11) exemption with supporting evidence.
4. Operate and plan for PR: Run the business and, where eligible, transition to a business-PR pathway.

Eligibility highlights

• Controlling or substantial ownership of the Canadian business
• A viable business that benefits Canada
• Relevant entrepreneurial/management experience
• Sufficient funds to establish and operate

Official source

• Official source: IRCC — LMIA exemptions (significant benefit)
• Official source: IRCC — Start-up Visa Program
• Official source: IRCC — Update on immigration measures for entrepreneurs (SUV pause)

Information current as of June 2026; rules change frequently — always confirm on canada.ca.