CanadaActiveBusiness Migration

C11 Significant Benefit Work Permit

Canada's primary federal route for founders since the Start-Up Visa closed. No fixed investment minimum — enter, operate for 12+ months, then apply for PR.

Official program name

C11 Significant Benefit Work Permit (IRPA Regulation 205(a))

Program category

Transferring as a founder, owner, or senior executive

Current status

Active and accepting applications

Best suited for

Founders establishing and personally operating a business in Canada, planning to build a PR case on operating track record

Overview

With the Start-Up Visa closed, the C11 has become Canada's primary federal entry point for business founders. Applicants secure a work permit, arrive in Canada, and operate the business for at least 12 months, generating Canadian tax returns and payroll records. That operating history is then used to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry or a provincial nominee stream. The C11 falls under the International Mobility Program, so no Labour Market Impact Assessment is required — but officers scrutinize for measurable economic benefit, not projections.

Minimum investment

No fixed statutory minimum

Active involvement required

Yes — hands-on operation for minimum 12 months

Residence status granted

Work permit (duration varies by case)

Family inclusion

To be confirmedConfirm current family-inclusion terms with IRCC

Spouse work rights

To be confirmedConfirm with the official authority before you rely on this.

Permanent residence pathway

Conditional — via Express Entry or PNP after 12+ months of demonstrated business operation

Job creation / other requirements

Must demonstrate measurable, documented benefit to Canada (not projections)

Government fees

To be confirmedConfirm with the official authority before you rely on this.

Processing time

To be confirmedConfirm with the official authority before you rely on this.

Official source

ircc.canada.ca (IRPA Regulation 205(a))

Directional guidance only, not legal or immigration advice. Confirm current requirements with IRCC or a licensed RCIC before applying. Last verified September 15, 2026.