C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit

The C11 Work Permit is an LMIA-exempt (Labour Market Impact Assessment exempt) option under IRCC’s International Mobility Program (IMP). It is designed for:

●  Entrepreneurs or self-employed individuals coming to Canada to start or operate a business

●  Short-term or seasonal professionals providing economic, social, or cultural benefit

●  Freelancers, contractors, or consultants contributing unique skills for a limited project

This pathway recognizes the value these individuals bring to the Canadian economy, especially in rural or high-impact sectors.

C11 may be right for you if you:

✔  Are a business owner, co-founder, or independent contractor

✔  Plan to actively manage or operate a business in Canada

✔  Are not dependent on a Canadian employer to direct your work

✔  Can show that your presence will create economic or cultural benefit (e.g., job creation, investment, regional impact)

✔  Are coming for a short-term project, seasonal contract, or trial operation

Examples include:

●  An Indian entrepreneur opening a tech startup in Alberta

●  A Filipino event planner managing a 3-month international festival

●  A Nigerian solar energy consultant hired by a local government initiative

●  No LMIA required, which reduces processing time

●  Can be used as a stepping stone to permanent residency (through PNP, Start-up Visa, or Express Entry if eligible)

●  Suitable for self-employed professionals or foreign owners of new Canadian businesses

●  May be renewable if business remains operational and beneficial

To apply for a C11 Work Permit, you must show:

●  A solid business plan or project description

●  Proof of ownership or control over the business or work

●  Evidence that your role will bring a significant benefit (economic, cultural, or social) to Canada

●  Clear details on duration of stay, financial means, and exit plan (if temporary)

●  Supporting documentation such as contracts, licenses, business registration, or letters of support.

At Sapra Immigration Services Inc., we assist with:

●  Assessing eligibility for the C11 stream

●  Drafting a professional business plan or benefit narrative

●  Gathering documentation that satisfies IRCC’s discretionary standards

●  Preparing your application for approval-ready submission

●  Guiding you toward next steps for permanent residency if desired

Our process is led by a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) with global experience working with entrepreneurs, creatives, and business professionals from over 50 countries.