An Australian entrepreneur received a two-year C11 significant-benefit work permit in May 2024 to establish and operate a Canadian business. The case highlights the importance of presenting a credible business plan and evidence of potential benefit to Canada.
Case summary
Applicant: Founder of an active Australian business
Goal: Establish and manage a Canadian business, with plans to engage local contractors and employees
Application: C11 LMIA-exempt work permit application supported by a business plan and evidence of the applicant’s experience and proposed Canadian activities
Outcome reported: Two-year work permit approved on May 23, 2024
Post-approval: Business operations began; early CRA documentation issues delayed the applicant’s own salary
The business vision
Christina, the founder of an active Australian firm, wanted to expand her services to Canada. Her stated objectives included creating contractor and employee opportunities, developing administrative support, offering specialized services, and serving Canadian and international clients.
Preparing the C11 application
Christina retained Reza Eslami, RCIC (R710241), of Arnika Visa. The application included a business plan, a proposed role as Owner/Managing Director of the Canadian company, and supporting evidence describing the expected cultural, social, and economic benefits of the proposed business.
Immigration Canada assesses a C11 application on its own evidence, and approval is not guaranteed. The case materials describe the application as addressing the applicant’s experience, business viability, and anticipated benefit to Canada.
Approval and launch
On May 23, 2024, Christina received approval of a C11 significant-benefit work permit valid for two years. She then began implementing the business plan, including day-to-day management, engaging an administrative support contractor, developing business processes, and expanding service offerings.
Early administrative challenge
After launch, Christina encountered a CRA account-access issue involving overseas tax documentation. The source account states that delays in receiving documents from her Australian accountant temporarily prevented her from issuing herself a salary. She maintained email records and correspondence with her accountant and Canadian tax specialists, while reinvesting business revenue into operations and development.
Outcome and key takeaway
The reported outcome is approval of a two-year work permit, followed by the launch and ongoing development of the Canadian business. The case illustrates the value of a well-supported business proposal and the need to plan for practical setup matters, including tax administration and payroll. It does not establish that every C11 applicant will receive approval or that the business’s longer-term results are guaranteed.
How Arnika Visa can help
Arnika Visa can help business owners assess potential immigration pathways and prepare supporting materials for a work permit application. Book a consultation]() to discuss your circumstances.
