Start-Up Visa Canada vs C11 Work Permit
Obtaining a work permit is often the first stepping stone in getting permanent residency in Canada and is the quickest option for entrepreneurs. The C11 Work Permit (IMP work permit) is an option to explore if you’re an entrepreneur or self-employed person waiting to come to under start up visa Canada and start your business and eventually become a permanent resident.
Is Canada StartUp Visa easy?
More than 50% of the Canada StartUp Visa (SUV) applications have not proceeded, and the applicants are waiting for the IRCC decision on their applications. With this number of applications not finalized yet, the start-up program is not the quickest option for entrepreneurs.
How long does it take to process a Canada Startup visa?
Apart from the CEC Program, the processing time for all permanent residency programs, including Canada StartUp Visa (SUV), is over 32 months. Given this approximate processing time and adding the time required to prepare a business plan and obtain a letter of support and waiting time for the medical and security check, the SUV applicants probably would have to wait at least five years to come to Canada upon approval.
How can I get a Canada StartUp Visa?
To be eligible for a Canada StartUp Visa (SUV) program, you need a letter of support from a designated organization, each with precise requirements. They usually require a detailed and complete business plan that includes realistic financial forecasts and why your business is innovative and unique, can succeed in Canada, and can eventually compete globally. Preparing such a business plan takes a lot of time and expense.
In addition, as per Canadian Immigration regulation, once the IRCC officer wants to approve your permanent residency, you have to provide evidence of active and ongoing management of your business from within Canada, and also an essential part of the business operations should occur in Canada, not online from your home country.
So, for this, the essential person of a Canada StartUp Visa (SUV) business must come to Canada with a work permit. At the same time, the permanent residency application is being processed, which can be risky for you. The applicant in Canada may encounter a real problem if the business is not operational or has been set up but failed once the IRCC officer assesses the PR application. In addition, the immigration officer can request a peer review (A review of a business plan from trusted organizations) even if you have a letter of support from their designated organizations, which can lead to more issues such as delays or refusals.
The SUV program is very complicated due to the nature of the program and its focus on innovative and unique business ideas. Moreover, a few immigration officers have the expertise in that industry to review the business plan. Finally, the SUV program has strict rules about the ownership and structure of a Canadian business company. Trying to add friends, relatives, or investors to the application may cause the project to fail. Last but not least, if the essential person of the SUV group is refused, the entire group will be refused.
What is the C11 work permit?
The International Mobility Program (IMP) has paved the way for Canadian companies to hire temporary employees from all countries without a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) that often foreign nationals require. The C11 is one of them that is available through the C11 Work Permit. Entrepreneurs and self-employed persons can utilize the C11 LMIA exemption code to apply for a work permit that does not need LMIA.
The Entrepreneurs/Self-employed work permit (C11 work permit) is mainly for two sorts of companies. The first class includes entrepreneurs who want to come to Canada temporarily to conduct their business plans. The second class applies to entrepreneurs or self-employed people who have permanent residency applications on the way.
In either category, you must demonstrate to the immigration officer that you are an entrepreneur or self-employed person with a solid business strategy and resources and that the business plan can potentially deliver significant economic, social, and cultural benefits to Canadians.
C11 Work Permit vs Canada StartUp Visa
Compared to the SUV program, you can come to Canada by getting a work permit. Once you are in Canada and running your business, you could qualify for permanent residence from inside Canada using different Immigration streams such as the CEC, which is managed under the Canada Express Entry system. The C11 work permit processing time can be fast. Still, you must wait one year after you receive your work permit to apply for it.
Before the pandemic, the Express Entry applications were reviewed in about six months, and the IRCC announced that the processing time would be resumed in 2023.
The permanent residency pathway for business people through the C11 work permit application is quicker and more flexible than a Canada startup visa to begin your business in Canada and eventually get your PR. The work permit lets you quickly create your Canadian business and hold complete control and ownership without third-party oversight or approval. You do not need a letter of support from a designated organization or indicate that your business will bring new or unique technologies, services, or products to Canada. Your business can be in almost any industry with no functional approach for entrepreneurs.
The Canada StartUp Visa (SUV) was initially designed for entrepreneurs who already have a business that has been scaled. You already have a good sales record and evidence of revenue. Your reason for immigrating to Canada would be to grow your startup even better with the support of angel investments, venture capitalists, and accelerators! You see Canada as a country that can better facilitate the growth of your already successful company.
Your company has solid business foundations but has not been established yet as a successful enterprise. On the other hand, the C11 Work Permit program is ideally fitted for entrepreneurs whose startup business idea has not yet been scaled. The C11 is perfect for entrepreneurs who want to come to Canada to set up and successfully build their businesses in Canada.
The Canada Startup Visa and the C11 Work Permit programs are both pathways for entrepreneurs to establish businesses in Canada, but they have some key differences:
1. Eligibility Criteria
- Canada Startup Visa: Requires applicants to have a qualifying business idea, support from a designated organization (venture capital fund, business incubator, or angel investor group), and meet language proficiency and education requirements.
- C11 Work Permit: Generally requires a job offer from an eligible Canadian employer who has received a positive LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) and has demonstrated that no Canadian worker can fill the position. Under the C11 visa, businesspeople can offer themselves a job by launching a company in Canada and then applying for a work permit to work in their company, usually as a senior manager (NOC Code 00).
2. Purpose of Travel
- Startup Visa: it is designed for entrepreneurs who want to launch a startup or expand their existing business in Canada.
- C11 visa: This visa is primarily for entrepreneurs or self-employed individuals seeking only temporary residence with a valid job offer from a Canadian employer for a specific position.
3. Duration
- SUV Program: Entrepreneurs can apply for permanent residency after getting a letter of support from a designated organization. There is an optional work permit pathway to come to Canada to start the business. At the same time, their PR application is being proceeded with the IRCC.
- C11 category: Typically issued for the duration of the job offer, which can vary depending on the employer’s needs and the possibility of extending it up to 7 years.
4. Path to Permanent Residency
- Startup program: It is a direct pathway to permanent residency upon meeting the program conditions, such as operating an innovative business, language criteria, etc.
- C11 program: Generally, it does not directly lead to permanent residency, but applicant may be eligible to apply for PR through other immigration programs.
5. Investment Requirement
- Startup Visa to Canada: Although it doesn’t require a minimum investment in the business, an entrepreneur needs to show the financial capacity to support themself and their business while in Canada, so the exact amount varies depending on the nature of the industry and other factors.
- C11 category Work Permit: It doesn’t have a specific investment requirement. Still, the job offer must meet particular criteria, such as offering wages that meet or exceed the prevailing wage for the occupation in the specific location.
6. Processing Time
- Canada Startup: SUV processing times can vary, but getting permanent residency generally takes several years.
- C11 Permit: C11 processing times also vary but may be faster than the startup visa program, primarily if the employer has already obtained a positive LMIA.
C11 Work Permit vs PNP entrepreneur program Canada
Offers some significant advantages compared to entrepreneur streams of provincial nomination programs (PNP). A PNP applicant should settle in the specific province regardless of whether there are better options upon arrival in other provinces. On the other hand, the C11 is managed through the Federal streams for temporary foreign workers. So, you can apply for PR through the Federal pathway, which means you can settle in any province of your choice.
Secondly, entrepreneur program Canada immigration streams set minimum net worth and investment requirements. On the contrary, the C11 Work Permit program route allows you to invest as much as possible and helps you qualify for PR even if you don’t have a high net worth. Eventually, applying through PNP streams is much more complicated than the C11 route. You will first have to submit an Expression of Interest, make preliminary research trips to the province, finalize a Business Performance Agreement (In most cases) after receiving an ITA, deploy your investment, and work on a work permit for about 18-36 months before becoming eligible for permanent residence. On the other hand, the C11 Work Permit is more straightforward. It gives you a fair shot at becoming a permanent resident within a year of deciding to do business in Canada.
Canada Startup Visa FAQ
What is Canada start up visa success rate?
The overall startup visa Canada success rate is above 75 percent for the applicant proceeds by IRCC without considering the applicants who applied and waiting for their decision. Strong immigration applications supported by designated organizations such as venture capital have higher chances of success.
What is the Canada StartUp Visa processing time?
According to the CIC processing times online tool, the average Canada startup visa processing time for an SUV optional work permit is 12 months. The average processing time for the Permanent Residence Visa is 37 months.
What is the Canada Startup Visa Cost?
The Canada startup visa cost varies. You might expect anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 for real startups and $30,000 to $100,000 for concept startups as the fee the startup group must pay the designated organization.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Canada startup visa?
Canada’s Startup Visa offers many advantages, such as access to a successful economy, support from designated organizations, and permanent residency. However, disadvantages include severe eligibility criteria, competition for spots, and the demand for a viable business plan. The startup visa Canada success rate depends on navigating these factors effectively for entrepreneurial immigrants.
Help You To Apply For Canada Business Imigration?
When it comes to business immigration, there are various business and immigration rules and regulations applied. Given the interplay between them and the complicated procedural framework, the pathway to permanent residency requires detailed planning and engagement. So, it’s better to have a skilled and experienced team on your side to help you finally get your permanent residence. We aim to help you maximize alignment between your business and immigration goals.
Suppose you are an entrepreneur considering starting a business quickly and efficiently in Canada through the ICT work permit, C11 Work Permit, Entrepreneur immigration, Canada self employment visa, Canada StartUp visa, or investment and eventually immigrating to Canada. In that case, we can provide high-quality services to overcome your immigration and business challenges.
As you can see, many considerations exist when applying for a C11 category work permit. Canada looks for entrepreneurs as much as it needs skilled workers. The business immigration pathway might be more challenging than skilled worker immigration if you lack the proper guidance and assistance. Our RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant) is familiar with the visa application process. He also has extensive business experience and can guide you in creating a solid business plan that boosts your application’s approval chances.
Regarding the C11 Work permit, C12 Work permit, or Canada PR application, our expert teams ensure that all necessary & supporting documents are prepared on time and to a high-quality standard when guiding entrepreneurs toward work permits or permanent residency. We provide comprehensive guidance at every step to ensure you make the right decision to maximize your chances of obtaining a temporary Visa permit or PR visa.
At Arnika Visa, our expert team is here to provide first-world-class support, so you can get back to focusing on your family and business. If you are an entrepreneur interested in immigrating to Canada, contact us today to set up a consultation to discuss your options and how we can guide you to achieve your immigration goals.
Unfortunately, my startup visa optional work permit application was rejected on December 26. Now, I am looking for the right solution, and on Google, I came across Arnika Visa’s website and an article about seven fantastic options to appeal a Canadian Visa refusal. Thank you, Mr. Eslami, who wrote a complete article. Now, as one of the solutions, I am looking to take my refused visa application to the federal court for judicial review with the help of a Canadian lawyer. I contacted many Canadian law firms to see if my case is worth taking to court and defending and the associated cost. Interestingly, without verifying the submitted case, most Canadian immigration lawyers say they will take it to court and get the settlement notice from IRCC quickly. I will get a visa after that. Mr. Eslami’s opinion is important to me, whether this claim is valid and how to evaluate such a claim. I appreciate any help you can provide.
The first step is to make a detailed assessment of the reasons for C11 work permit refusal. Reviewing the case by an RCIC or Canadian lawyer to make sure that you submitted a solid visa application to determine whether your refusal was unfair or unreasonable. Unfortunately, many Canadian lawyers claim they can settle the case in federal court, but it is untrue. The only measure you can take is to check the previous cases of lawyers in the federal court by searching the names of lawyers on the Canlii website. First, check the lawyers you want to hire, and if they have had similar successful cases, you can trust and delegate your case to them; otherwise, look for a Canadian lawyer with knowledge in the field of rejected Canada c11 visas. Reza Eslami
Link to Canlii’s website article
https://arnikavisa.com/canlii-canada-successful-immigration-court-cases/
Hello, there are many advertisements on social media from various immigration companies that claim that by giving $75K to $100K and being a member of Canada start-up visa groups, we can quickly get permanent residence in Canada. Is that true? Grateful
Hello, thank you for your comments. Be cautious of claims promising easy PR through financial contributions. The Canada Start-up Visa Program requires a genuine business commitment, not just a monetary investment. I recommend verifying the legitimacy of such offers and consulting with a licensed immigration professional (RCIC) for accurate guidance.
I have my company in my home country and am looking to relocate to Canada as an entrepreneur; I have found that I am eligible for three Canadian immigration programs: a C11 work permit, an ICT work permit, and a Startup visa. Please compare the processing time for me with the positive and negative sides of each and tell me which is the best regarding the timeline to settle in Canada quickly.
The processing time for Canadian immigration business programs can vary based on individual circumstances and workload at immigration offices. However, generally speaking:
C11 Work Permit:
This is a standard work permit. Processing times are typically quicker, but it does not lead to permanent residency on its own. If your goal is a long-term settlement, this might not be the most direct route.
ICT Work Permit (Intra-Company Transfer): If you’re moving within your company, this could be faster than other options. However, it may not be suitable if you’re looking for permanent residency as it is a temporary permit.
Startup Visa:
While the processing time for a startup visa may be longer than the work permits, it offers a direct path to permanent residency. If settling in Canada permanently is your primary goal, the Startup Visa program provides a clear pathway for entrepreneurs.
Recommendation:
If your priority is a quick settlement with the possibility of long-term residency, the C11 or ICT work permits might be faster. However, if you are looking for a more stable and permanent solution, the Startup Visa is likely the better choice, providing a clear pathway to permanent residency in Canada.
I went through an immigration consultant and applied for a startup visa, which was to be an LMIA exemption, informed by my agent. I applied in 2020 since the WP was delayed. My consultant informed me to apply for a business visitor visa with the support of my Canadian business partner, which was again rejected. The reason for refusal was to apply for ESDC. Last week, I again applied for a Canadian visit visa, which was rejected on February 15, 2024, because my current employment situation does not show that I am financially established in my country of residence, and my visit to Canada is not consistent with a temporary stay given details in the application. I appreciate your support on the case. Thanks
To address visa rejections, assess previous refusals, ensure accurate financial documentation, solid business plans and partnerships, seek legal advice and strategize reapplication with patience and persistence. Understand reasons for refusals, gather strong financial evidence, refine business plans, consult immigration lawyers, and approach reapplication with resilience and clarity.
Hi, I am planning to apply via C11 work permit. I intend to start a new business with significant benefits in healthcare. I will incorporate in Ontario: 1. Do I need to offer myself employment as CEO by registering at the Employers Portal to fulfill the eligibility requirements? 2. Any advice on processing my family (spouse and two children, 16 and 18 years) to get visa approval? Thank you
1- Registering as CEO and offering a job strengthens your C11 work permit application, demonstrating your role in the business. 2- Ensure thorough documentation, including proof of familial relationship and financial support. Highlight the benefits your business brings to Canada. Professional guidance can streamline the process and increase approval chances.
I am new to business immigration in Canada. I have checked several options for the PR immigration path to Canada: Provincial nomination, business investor, etc. One of my immigration consultants advised me to take the Start up Visa to Canada pathway with a guarantee of PR in Canada for the upcoming year. I researched the program and understood that the IRCC may only accept the application if the startup business is inspiring. Also, the startup owner has to make some progress with the company. I am conservative, but I would like to know the pros and cons of a Startup Visa and whether an SUV is indeed a guarantee for PR in Canada, according to some immigration consultants. I appreciate your sharing your thoughts and any progress on SUVs. Thanks
The Startup Visa Program offers a promising path to Canadian PR, but success hinges on a genuinely innovative business idea and demonstrated scalability and progress. Pros include PR potential and entrepreneurial opportunities. However, the cons involve the risk of business failure and strict eligibility criteria. There is no guarantee on any Canadian immigration program, which is against the law.
The primary objective of investing in Canada is for business investments, business developments, and business expansions under Infrastructure development programs & projects in urban-rural areas. I was a PR of Canada from 1990-1998, wherein I did my education and job & had a business in Ontario. I am looking at the C11 work permit option. Thanks for your guidance
Given your prior residency and business experience in Canada, pursuing the C11 work permit for business investments aligns with your objectives. Your background strengthens your case. We can guide you through the application process, ensuring compliance and maximizing investment opportunities. Let’s tackle this journey together.
I have a job and live in the US now, but if I go with the startup visa option as an essential person, do I have to relocate to Canada entirely? Can I travel to Canada once a month (but still live in the US) and work on the business until the PR approval? Thanks
To qualify under Canada’s Startup Visa Program, you must actively contribute to Canada’s business. While there’s no strict relocation requirement, periodic visits may not suffice. Consult an immigration consultant (RCIC) for personalized advice, ensuring compliance while managing your current commitments in the US.
Hello, I have been a director and senior executive of a company (Care Home Service provider) in Europe for over three years, which is doing well. I have had a small Ontario-incorporated company in Canada for over three years – Care Support and Home Support work activities, which are not doing well currently due to the lack of my presence. I need to grow this business. However, I can show $65,000 in a Canadian bank to support the company if I am present here. My English is good, and I can get 6 in IELTS. My age is 52. Between an ICT work permit and a C11 work permit, which one is more suitable for me to get PR? How many Canadian staff members must be recruited for ICT and C11 work permit visas? What documents are needed for them? Thanks
Both ICT and C11 permits offer paths to PR. ICT suits multinational transfers, while C11 is for business establishments. ICT may not require Canadian staff, but C11 likely does. Documents include qualifications, business plans, and financial statements. Consult an immigration expert for tailored guidance. Good luck!
I plan to incorporate an IT company and apply for a C11 work permit for myself as CEO. Let me know how I can proceed.
“Incorporate your IT company in Canada. Developing a strong business plan shows significant benefits for Canadians or Canada. Apply for a C11 work permit as CEO. Ensure compliance with immigration regulations. Seek professional guidance from an expert on C11 visas if needed. Good luck!”
I am looking for assistance with a C11 work permit. The Business is an Australian-Canadian consultation agency. I am an Australian business consultant. The Canadian branch was established in November 2022. I am currently holding an IEC visa expiring in late September 2024. Please let me know how to apply.
Explore extending your stay or transitioning to a proper Canadian work permit. Contact us for personalized guidance on your application process.
I applied for my Work Permit under the Startup Visa Program. I got a rejection that “you have not obtained a commitment made by one or more designated entities.” The same was submitted to IRCC directly from the Angel Investor to IRCC in May 2023, and the acknowledgment from IRCC is also available. I have sent a reconsideration request, and the tracking sheet says we have received your inquiry; what does that mean on the portal? It shows the last updated 15th of October; I understand the officer decides to accept or reject. Is there any timeline? Thanks
The “received your inquiry” status indicates IRCC has acknowledged your reconsideration request. There’s no fixed timeline for processing reconsideration. Monitor the portal for updates. For timelines or concerns, consult an immigration professional. Officer decisions vary; stay patient through the process.
What are your thoughts on the chances of getting Visa approval for a startup visa if one student visa is rejected from Canada in 2022 with 216(b)? Thanks
The previous rejection of a student visa doesn’t necessarily impact the startup visa application as it is a PR application. However, it’s crucial to address any concerns raised in the previous application to strengthen the new one. Consulting with an immigration consultant (RCIC) can provide tailored advice based on your specific circumstances to enhance your chances of getting a Canada startup visa approval after rejection.
Hello, my IT Business is in the POC Stage. Can I get a Letter of Support from a designated organization for a startup visa? Or is it easy if the business is in the Market Stage? Please suggest. I appreciate any help you can provide.
Letter of support feasible at POC stage; market stage preferable. Consult designated organizations for guidance on eligibility. Clarify startup visa requirements. Each case varies; seek expert advice for tailored assistance. Wishing you success in your entrepreneurial endeavors.
Hi, I have recently submitted my PR application under the SUV program. Does IRCC operationalize the 3-year open work permit for startup visa applicants announced last year? Thanks
As of now, the IRCC website hasn’t been updated to include the 3-year Open Work Permit for Startup Visa applicants. Stay tuned for IRCC updates on its implementation.
Hello, my sister’s SUV work permit application was refused. We are waiting for the GCMS notes. Do we need to submit the job offer on the employer portal again for reapplication? If we are not required to submit it again, can we use the same job offer number, which starts with an “A”? Thanks
No, you don’t need to resubmit the job offer on the employer portal for reapplication. You can use the same job offer number (“A”) if it remains valid, but ensure any necessary updates are reflected in the reapplication.
Hi, we’re reviewing the work permit application under the Start-Up Visa Canada. However, the requested documents could be more relevant. For example, “Proof of Business Establishment in Canada” we cannot submit this since the business has not yet been established in Canada. Also, relevant documents such as a Letter of Support or Proof of Funds are not explicitly requested. There is no place to upload “other documents.” how can I deal with it? Or am I on the wrong path? Thank you
You’re on the right path. Consult a regulated Canadian immigration consultant (RCIC) to clarify the documentation requirements. Explain your situation regarding the business establishment and inquire about submitting additional relevant documents like a Letter of Support or Proof of Funds.
Hi, I am in Canada through the startup visa program with my family and will extend my work permit and my family’s work and study permit. Regarding the question below, what is the correct answer? Yes or No?
“Does one of the following apply to you?
Are you a spouse, common-law partner or dependent child of a person who holds a work permit or is applying for a work permit (Yes No)? Please guide me. Many thanks
Yes, if you are extending your work permit and your family’s permits, including study permits for your family, the correct answer is “Yes.”
I want to start a business in Canada and move to Canada with my family with PR. What program will I be eligible for, and how much government and your fees will be?
Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for various business immigration programs like the Start-Up Visa or the Provincial Nominee Program. Our fees vary based on services required. Let’s schedule a consultation to discuss your specific needs and costs involved.
I’m selling a business that also includes an apartment in B.C. and would like to advertise.
Thank you for considering our services. We specialize in business immigration to Canada. Please provide details about your business in B.C. for tailored advertising. Let’s discuss how we can assist you in showcasing your offering to potential buyers.
Do I need to be actively involved in the Start-Up business plan, presentation, etc? I am asking this because I have a job (sailing onboard ship) and must be out of home for two months (I am on rotation for 60 days on/off).
In the context of a Canada startup visa, your active involvement in the business plan and presentation is crucial for its success and visa approval. Refusal factors include insufficient commitment and contribution to the startup’s development. Plan your involvement during off-rotation periods or explore remote collaboration options.