New Update on LMIA Exempt C11
#WorkPermit for Business Owners & Entrepreneurs Seeking Temporary Residence in Canada 🇨🇦
IRCC has updated its internal guidance (May 28, 2025) for business owners and self-employed individuals applying under the International Mobility Program (IMP) using R205(c)(ii) - C11 exemption.
This update clarifies eligibility for temporary residence when permanent residence is not the intent, and focuses on entrepreneurs or self-employed individuals who:
✔️Genuinely intend to operate a business in Canada,
✔️Will bring significant economic, social, or cultural benefits, and
✔️Can demonstrate a solid business plan, prior experience, and majority ownership/control of the business.
📌 Key Clarifications:
✔️Applicants must not primarily seek PR at the time of applying.
✔️The focus is on temporary business operations and not on establishing residency.
✔️Officers will assess economic benefit, job creation potential, and viability of the business.
✔️Clear distinction made from owner-operator policies abolished in April 2021.
This is for entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals from abroad looking to enter Canada temporarily to run a business without pursuing PR right away. It’s a helpful option for:
✔️International investors testing Canadian markets,
✔️Temporary expansions by foreign business owners, and
✔️Genuine business builders who want time-limited work permits.
📚 Read both policy updates here:
🔗 IRCC Operational Bulletin -
canada.ca/en/immigration-ref…
🔗 R205(c)(ii) C11 Guidance -
canada.ca/en/immigration-ref…
#C11WorkPermit #IMP #CanadianImmigration #BusinessVisaCanada #TemporaryResidence #IRCCUpdate #EntrepreneurshipCanada #RCIC #ImmigrationNews