Build Your Business in Canada Through the C11 Work Permit
Entrepreneur & Self-Employed Immigration with Cougar Immigration
Are you an experienced entrepreneur or self-employed professional looking to invest or launch a business in Canada? The C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit allows you to enter and operate in Canada without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Cougar Immigration helps you use this unique pathway to bring your vision—and your future—to life in Canada.
What is the C11 Work Permit?
The C11 LMIA-Exempt Work Permit is designed for:
- Entrepreneurs establishing a new business in Canada
- Self-employed individuals who can demonstrate significant economic, social, or cultural benefit to the country
Approved under IRCC’s International Mobility Program, this permit does not require a job offer from a Canadian employer or a positive LMIA. Instead, it focuses on your business plan, experience, and impact.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit, you must:
- Have relevant business ownership or management experience
- Intend to establish, purchase, or operate a business in Canada
- Submit a viable business plan showing your proposed business will benefit Canada
- Have sufficient funds to start and operate the business
- Show intent to actively manage the business from within Canada
- Be admissible (no criminal or medical issues)
The permit is typically granted for up to 2 years, and can be a stepping stone to permanent residency through programs like Express Entry (CEC) or PNP.
How Cougar Immigration Supports You
The C11 stream is highly documentation-focused and requires a persuasive business case. We provide end-to-end support:
- Eligibility Assessment: We evaluate your experience, business idea, and suitability for the C11 stream
- Business Plan Development: We help create a strong, IRCC-ready business plan that highlights economic or social benefit
- Application Preparation: We prepare all forms, supporting documents, and a detailed justification letter
- IRCC Submission & Representation: We act as your authorized representative and manage all communication
- Post-Approval Support: We assist with business registration, compliance, renewals, and pathways to PR
Pricing
Fees may vary depending on business model complexity and PR transition planning.
Why Choose Cougar Immigration?
At Cougar Immigration, we specialize in business immigration strategies. With in-depth knowledge of the C11 process, economic impact framing, and long-term settlement options, we help turn your entrepreneurial goals into Canadian reality.