Canada, a thriving economic hub, offers numerous opportunities for business professionals worldwide. Thousands of entrepreneurs visit Canada annually to explore and engage in business ventures. Under the Business Visitor Visa category, foreign nationals can temporarily visit Canada for business dealings, networking, and trade conferences. However, this visa does not permit employment in Canada.
For those seeking to establish and manage their businesses in Canada, the Owner-Operator Work Permit provides an excellent pathway. This work permit allows foreign nationals to start or buy a business in Canada and operate it while residing in the country.
Owner-Operator Work Permit
The Owner-Operator Work Permit is a unique opportunity for foreign nationals to own and run a business in Canada. It allows applicants to actively manage their business and contribute to the Canadian economy.
Key Benefits:
- No minimum investment requirement.
- No regional or provincial restrictions.
- No IELTS requirement for the work permit, but applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English or French to justify their application.
- No minimum net worth required to apply.
- The main applicant and their spouse receive a work permit under the same business as owner/operators.
- Must hire at least one full-time Canadian employee.
- After gaining Canadian business experience, applicants and their families can apply for Permanent Residency (PR) through federal or provincial programs.
Canadian Work Permit Types
Canada offers over 100 different work permit options under two main programs:
1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
The TFWP requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for a foreign national to obtain a work permit. The purpose of the LMIA is to ensure that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact Canadian job seekers. The Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) evaluates LMIA applications to confirm that the employment of foreign workers will not lower wages or reduce job opportunities for Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
2. International Mobility Program (IMP)
The IMP does not require an LMIA. This program includes various work permits that are exempt from LMIA requirements due to free trade agreements or Canadian interests. Some LMIA-exempt work permit categories include:
- CUSMA (Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement) – Formerly NAFTA, allowing skilled professionals from the U.S. and Mexico to work in Canada.
- Employer-Specific Work Permits – Foreign workers with a job offer from a Canadian employer can apply for an LMIA-exempt permit.
- Open Work Permits – Includes options like the Working Holiday Visa, Post-Graduate Work Permit, and Open Spousal Work Permit.
How Golden Eagle Immigrations Can Help
At Golden Eagle Immigrations, we specialize in guiding business owners and entrepreneurs through the Owner-Operator Work Permit process. Our expert consultants will assist you in:
- Assessing eligibility and preparing applications.
- Finding or establishing a suitable business in Canada.
- Navigating LMIA and IMP processes.
- Ensuring compliance with Canadian immigration and business laws.
- Helping applicants transition from work permits to Permanent Residency (PR).
Contact Golden Eagle Immigrations today to explore your opportunities as a business owner in Canada!