Owner-Operator LMIA

The Owner-Operator LMIA was originally designed for foreign entrepreneurs who wanted to obtain a Canadian Work Permit to manage their own business. However, the program has undergone major reforms and no longer exists in its previous form. Since 2021, Service Canada has tightened eligibility rules, and as of 2024, applications under this stream are accepted only in very limited cases.

Under the new framework, only established and actively operating businesses with local staff, clients, and a physical location can qualify. Start-ups or new franchise locations are no longer considered eligible. For senior executives under NOC 00, an existing management structure must already be in place before applying.

Despite these changes, business owners still have several viable pathways to work and live in Canada while managing their company.

Key Benefits

Opportunity to obtain a Work Permit to manage your own active business in Canada.

Potential transition to Permanent Residency through other business immigration routes.

Access to Canada’s healthcare and education systems for you and your family.

Legal employment authorization for your spouse and study permits for your children.

Ability to build a real operational presence and local employment track record in Canada.

Eligibility Criteria

Own at least 51% of a Canadian company with ongoing operations for at least 12 months.

Maintain a physical office, active staff, and a client base.

Demonstrate financial capacity to pay salaries at or above the prevailing regional wage.

Present a clear business plan showing how your company will create or retain jobs.

Comply with all advertising and recruitment requirements similar to standard LMIAs.

Pay the LMIA government fee of CAD 1,000 per application.

Recommended Alternatives

Given the new restrictions, the following programs now offer more efficient and predictable outcomes for business owners:

C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit

Part of the International Mobility Program (IMP), this LMIA-exempt pathway allows entrepreneurs to operate their own Canadian business if it brings significant economic, social, or cultural benefit to Canada.

Intra-Company Transfer (ICT)

Ideal for international business owners expanding to Canada. This program enables executives or specialists to obtain a Work Permit and later pursue Permanent Residency.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP – Entrepreneur Streams)

Each province offers its own entrepreneur pathway leading directly to Permanent Residency through investment and local job creation.

Start-Up Visa Program

For entrepreneurs developing innovative projects with the support of designated organizations. It offers fewer language barriers and no age limits.

How CBGA Can Help

Owner-Operator LMIA

Key Benefits

Eligibility Criteria

Recommended Alternatives

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