Business Owner-Operator Program in Canada

The Business Owner-Operator Program in Canada is a pathway designed for foreign entrepreneurs and business owners who wish to purchase or start a business in Canada and gain work permits as a means to obtain Canadian permanent residency. This program allows individuals to actively manage their own business while working in Canada and contributes to economic growth by creating job opportunities for Canadians.

Key Features of the Owner-Operator Program

• Direct Management: The business owner will actively participate in managing the day-to-day operations of the business.
• Work Permit: Successful applicants will receive a work permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), allowing them to work legally in Canada while running their business.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: After running the business for a certain period, owners may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through provincial nominee programs (PNPs) or under the federal Express Entry system.

Eligibility Criteria

• Ownership Requirement: Applicants must have significant ownership in the business, ideally holding at least 50% or more of the shares in the company.
• Business Acquisition or Start-Up: The applicant can either:
  • Purchase an existing Canadian business, or
  • Start a new business venture in Canada that has a viable and sustainable business model.
• Active Role: The applicant must demonstrate that they will play an active role in the day-to-day management and operations of the business, not just act as an investor.
• Job Creation for Canadians: The business must have the potential to create jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents, thus contributing to the local economy.
• Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): Applicants must apply for and receive a positive LMIA, which is an assessment by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to determine if the hiring of a foreign national will have a positive impact on the Canadian labor market.
• Business Plan: A comprehensive business plan outlining the strategy, investment, financial viability, and projected job creation is essential for the LMIA and work permit approval.
• Relevant Experience: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient experience in managing or operating a business, along with relevant skills and qualifications.
• Sufficient Investment: Applicants must invest significant capital into the business to show commitment to its success and sustainability. While there is no set minimum, the investment should be proportional to the business type and scale.

Application Process

1. Business Purchase or Establishment: The applicant must identify an existing business to purchase or start a new venture. Due diligence is required to assess the business's viability and compliance with Canadian laws.
2. Prepare LMIA Application: After securing the business, the applicant submits an LMIA application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to prove that their employment in the business will have a positive impact on the Canadian labor market.
3. Work Permit Application: Once a positive LMIA is obtained, the applicant can apply for a work permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). This permit allows the applicant to work legally in Canada and manage their business.
4. Business Operation: Upon arrival in Canada, the business owner must actively manage and operate the business according to the approved business plan, ensuring the creation of jobs for Canadians and the business's success.
5. Pathway to Permanent Residency: After a certain period of running the business, the applicant may qualify to apply for permanent residency through various pathways:
   • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
   • Express Entry System (via the Canadian Experience Class or Federal Skilled Worker Program)

Benefits of the Owner-Operator Program

• Work in Canada: Applicants gain the legal right to work in Canada while managing their own business.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: The program serves as a pathway to Canadian permanent residency for the applicant and their family.
• Job Creation: The program supports the Canadian economy by creating jobs for Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
• Business Opportunities: Canada provides a stable and business-friendly environment with access to various sectors, making it a prime location for business growth.