Who's Eligible for a C11 Significant Benefit Work Permit

If you're a founder looking to move to Canada, please stand up.

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Canada’s got a lesser-known (but highly strategic to the country’s economic goals) work permit pathway for entrepreneurs who aren’t buying a business or going through a provincial nomination. It’s called the C11 Significant Benefit Work Permit, and its designed for founders whose presence will bring great value to Canada.

If you are more of a passive investor, this won’t work for you. It’s for individuals with majority control in a new Canadian company that creates jobs, exports, intellectual property, or otherwise benefits the economy, especially in under-served regions or industries.

And the government expects you to actively participate in building the business.

The C11 program is based on IRPR 205(a): a regulatory exemption that allows Canada to issue work permits to foreign nationals whose work is expected to deliver “significant economic, social, or cultural benefit.”

Let’s break down who qualifies.

To qualify, the applicant must:

• Own and control at least 51% of a Canadian company.You must be the majority owner, with documentation like articles of incorporation and a share registry to prove it.

• Have a well-defined benefit narrative. This means demonstrating that your venture will lead to job creation, exports, innovation, or community investment. Bonus points for rural or underrepresented regions.

• Show operational readiness.You should have evidence that the business is more than just an idea: think a lease, website, contracts, or a hiring plan.

• Have the funds to execute.That includes startup capital and enough personal savings to support yourself for at least 18 months in Canada.

• Present a contingency plan.What happens if the venture fails? IRCC expects a plan for winding down, selling, or transitioning your role: this shows you're taking the risk seriously.

• Prove you’re the right person to lead this. Founders must show a track record or credible ability to bring the business to life, whether through sector experience, past ventures, or leadership roles.

What else you should know:

• No LMIA is required. Work permits are typically valid for up to two years and can be renewed.

• Strong applications are often processed in less than 4 months at “fast-track” visa offices.

• This isn’t a direct permanent residence program, but it’s a great launchpad. The time you spend working under C11 can later help you qualify under other programs.

• Only one founder per company can apply under C11. Other co-founders may need a different pathway.

• If you’re more of a silent investor, this isn’t the right fit. The founder needs to be actively involved in day-to-day operations.

The C11 Significant Benefit Work Permit is one of the fastest ways for international founders ready to take the next step to turn your business vision into a boots-on-the-ground presence in Canada.

If you are ready to add 🌶️ to your 🇨🇦 immigration plan, book some time with Westdale Immigration Consulting Inc.