Part 1 – Entrepreneur LMIA
Canada offers multiple routes to permanent residency (PR), but one lesser-known yet powerful option is through business investments. The Entrepreneur LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is an attractive program for business owners looking to secure PR while actively running a business in Canada.
What is the Entrepreneur LMIA?
The Entrepreneur LMIA allows foreign business owners and investors to establish, acquire, or invest in a Canadian business, creating jobs and contributing to the local economy. By obtaining an LMIA, entrepreneurs can secure a work permit, earn valuable points for Express Entry, and transition to PR in less than or within 12 months.
Key Benefits of the Entrepreneur LMIA
✅ No Net Worth or Source of Funds Requirement – Unlike traditional business immigration programs, the Entrepreneur LMIA does not require applicants to prove a minimum net worth or disclose the source of their funds.
✅ Significant Investment, Job Creation Required – Investors must commit at least CAD$250,000.00, unless their business generates 8 to 10 high-paying jobs immediately.
✅ 200 Express Entry Points – Successful applicants receive 200 CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) points, significantly boosting their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.
✅ Live Anywhere in Canada (Except Quebec) – Entrepreneurs can choose their business location in any Canadian province or territory except Quebec.
Eligibility & Application Process
1️⃣ Own or invest in a Business – The business must be operational and actively engaged before LMIA approval. For new businesses, a CPA attestation is required, while existing businesses must show proof of salary payments, retained earnings, and dividends.
2️⃣ Secure an LMIA – Applicants must demonstrate that their business benefits the Canadian economy by creating jobs and making a substantial financial commitment before applying.
3️⃣ Work Permit & Express Entry Points – Upon LMIA approval, entrepreneurs can apply for a work permit.
4️⃣ Language Requirement (CLB 7) – A Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 is required to qualify for Express Entry.
Important Considerations
🔹 Advertising Requirement –
🔹 Proof of Business Operations
🔹 Multiple Divisions for Senior Manager Positions
Is This the Right Pathway for You?
If you are an experienced entrepreneur or investor looking to establish a business in Canada while gaining permanent residency, this could be the perfect pathway for you!
📩 Need guidance? Contact us today to explore your options and start your journey toward Canadian PR through business investment!
