Is there a less expensive way for foreign nationals to move to Canada through investment? Yes, via the International Mobility Program Code C11. Franchise businesses do qualify and can provide benefits over a start-up business. We'll cover that today on Franchise City
We previously covered the PNP, the Canadian "Provincial Nomination Program", which is proven way to move to Canada, however can be quite expensive costing hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Today we look at the C11 Entrepreneur work permit that allows non residents to live and work in Canada without the need to apply for an LMIA. This is great news as historically the Labor Market Impact Assessment has been challenging to obtain, and often ended in refusal. For this reason two thirds of all work permits today are attained via the "IMP" International Mobility Program Code C11
The C11 program is actually a work permit, however the applicant can choose to work in their own business. This allows for the applicant to start or buy a business and the investment amount is significantly less than the PNP. If approved the applicant and their family including children under 22 years of age can stay in Canada.
It should be noted the C11 program on its own does not lead to permanent residency, it is a temporary permit, however it can lead to permanent residence if the applicant initiates a few extra steps. The basic progression looks something like this:

1. Start or Buy a Business
2. Create Business Plan
3. Execute the Business Plan
4. Apply for C11 Work Permit
5. Obtain C11 Approval
6. Operate Business for 12 Months
7. Apply for Permanent Residence

Who can apply:
- Want to be self-employed or operate a business in Canada
- You must own at least 50% of the business
- Present a viable business plan
- Must have sufficient funds to operate business in Canada. While there is no set amount we suggest at least an $150k investment. There is also a social and cultural eligibility if you are a musicians authors or sportsperson that requires a lower investment of around $50k, however we will be exploring the economic route today.
And finally and most importantly, the business must demonstrate economic benefits to Canadians. Economic benefit can be shown in a number of ways, the easiest is by hiring Canadians to work in your business. Note, businesses that only benefit you personally, such as an AirBnb, or real estate investment, are not good choices as you are the only one benefiting from the business. Ideally you should be hiring Canadians to work in your Business.

Benefits of Investing in a Franchise for your C11 application.
1. A franchise business has a proven operational model and provides ongoing training and support on how to best operate the business. For anyone new to the country not overly familiar with the business landscape this is a tremendous advantage
2. A Nationally recognized franchise brand is likely to be perceived more favorably by officials over an unknown business plan.
3. Acceptable investment levels may be lower with a well known franchise vs a start up business.
4. By investing in a franchise you have the ability to immediately provide immigration officials with much of the required paperwork such as historical business plans, forecasts and operational manuals.
4. An established franchise can have a higher overall chance of success than a startup business. This isn't always the case so buyers should be careful which franchise they buy.
Depending on your budget many good options exist in many industries. If your budget is lower we generally suggest service based businesses. These are business that can operate from a small office rather than requiring an expensive storefront retail location. A McDonalds for example will cost over 1 million dollars not including real estate, while a service based franchise can be started in the $100k range and often employs many workers.
Some industries that are service based include. Senior Care. The owner hires and trains caregivers who attend to seniors in their homes.
Also renovation, construction or Home Décor. Again, owners are hiring and managing crews of workers who perform the service.
Cleaning. While not a sexy business it can be quite profitable
If you have a slightly higher budget some retail options exist that can be good options for the C11 such as Automotive Services, Fitness centers,
Personal Services like hair cutting, massage and esthetics. Your investment for these types of businesses depending on your location would start at around $200k, still quite a bit less than the PNP.
Our consultants ca help you determine which franchise would be best for your situation. Our service is provided free to buyers, just like working with a real estate agent, as we are paid by the sellers. If you have not yet engaged an immigration lawyer we can help you with a referral.
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