Owner-Operator LMIA
For most foreign workers, obtaining an LMIA-supported job offer is the first step toward working in Canada. An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is the process through which Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) confirms that no eligible Canadian citizens or permanent residents can fill a particular position. However, for entrepreneurial individuals, the Owner-Operator LMIA offers a streamlined pathway that eases many of the usual requirements.
Tailored for foreign entrepreneurs who wish to run their own business in Canada, the Owner-Operator LMIA allows you to secure a Canadian work permit without having to advertise the job. Instead, by proving your ownership and your commitment to creating Canadian jobs, you can bypass many traditional hurdles.
Main Requirements
- Majority Ownership: You must own more than 50% of the Canadian company.
- Job Creation: Demonstrate how your entry into Canada will result in more jobs for Canadians.
- Top Management Role: As the owner, you should be at the pinnacle of the organizational hierarchy and not report to anyone else.
- Comprehensive Business Plan: Present a detailed and convincing business plan outlining the potential for sustainable growth. ESDC will assess this plan during your application.
- Relevant Experience: Provide evidence of prior experience as an owner or senior manager in a similar industry to validate the genuineness of the job offer.
Benefits of the Owner-Operator LMIA
- Exempt from the job advertisement requirement, resulting in a faster application process.
- Earns an additional 200 Express Entry points to boost your chances for permanent residency.
- Allows you to bring dependants and family members, provided the financial criteria are met.
- Eligible for expedited processing, with potential approval by ESDC within ten business days.
- Offers a temporary work permit valid for 1–2 years while your permanent residency is processed.
- No requirement for non-guaranteed investments in the Canadian Government investment fund.
- No specific minimum net worth requirement is needed to qualify.
With the Owner-Operator LMIA, foreign entrepreneurs have a clear and efficient pathway to launch their business and establish a lasting presence in Canada.