The Owner-Operator Business Visa is designed to attract foreign entrepreneurs who wish to establish or acquire a business in Canada. This visa allows eligible individuals to enter Canada on a temporary status to actively manage their business operations, contributing to economic growth and job creation. Foreign investor entrepreneurs interested in relocating to Canada have the option to acquire an established business, launch a new enterprise, or substantially invest in an existing Canadian business. They can apply for a work visa under the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) program as a manager/owner.
Successful applicants holding a temporary work visa can try to transition to permanent residence through some provincial programs or as federal skilled workers under Express Entry. But those procedures involve complex rules, requiring foreign investor-entrepreneurs to demonstrate their ability to create or retain Canadian jobs and transfer intellectual property and/or exclusive knowledge to Canadians. But the program has recently been updated, attracting significant attention as now it is possible to convert the Owner-Operator temporary stay into Permanent Residency status under one of our optional SUV streams.
Immediate Benefits of the Owner-Operator Business Visa
Business Ownership: Enables foreign nationals to own and operate a business in Canada.
Work Permit: Provides a work permit allowing the visa holder to live and work in Canada.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Offers a potential route to permanent residency through business investment.
Job Creation: Facilitates the creation or retention of employment opportunities for Canadians.
Business Expansion: Supports the growth and expansion of businesses in Canada, fostering innovation and economic diversity.
Key qualifications for the Owner-Operator classification include:
Investing a substantial amount of capital in a legitimate Canadian enterprise.
Intending to enter Canada primarily to develop and manage the business enterprise, supported by owning at least 50% of the enterprise and exercising active operational control over it.Intending to enter Canada primarily to develop and manage the business enterprise, supported by owning at least 50% of the enterprise and exercising active operational control over it.
Demonstrating that their temporary entry will result in the creation or preservation of job opportunities for Canadians, alongside skills transfer.
Showing effective communication skills, crucial for business continuity and effective skills transfer, such as a valid IELTS language test with a CLB of 5.0 in each component, is recommended.
Eligibility Criteria
For the Owner-Operator/Entrepreneur:
Must demonstrate a commitment to actively managing and operating a business in Canada.
Should possess the necessary skills and experience relevant to the business.
Must provide evidence of sufficient funds to establish and sustain the business.
For the Business:
Must be a genuine, viable business opportunity with the potential for long-term success.
Should demonstrate the ability to create employment opportunities for Canadians.
Must comply with all relevant Canadian laws and regulations.
Application Process we assist with:
Business Plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining the nature of the business, its market potential, and financial projections.
Work Permit Application: Submit an application for a work permit under the Owner-Operator category.
Immigration Process: Navigate the immigration process, including demonstrating the benefits of the business to the Canadian economy.
Approval and Relocation: Upon approval, relocate to Canada and commence business operations.
Initial Supporting Documents we assess:
Entrepreneur: Resume, business plan, proof of funds, and evidence of relevant experience.
How long does the Owner-Operator work permit last? The initial work permit is typically issued for one to three years and can be renewed.
Can family members accompany the entrepreneur to Canada? Yes, family members may apply for accompanying visas, including open work permits for spouses and study permits for children.
Business Visa Package
For further information or questions regarding Business Visa requirements, please feel free to contact us. The best way to start the process is to order an in-person business consultation and go through the details confidentially.
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