Canadian Business Immigration

If you are a business person or manager looking to immigrate to Canada, the Canadian federal and provincial governments offer a number of options that may allow you to fast-track the Canadian immigration process.

Owner-Operator LMIA Program: An Introduction

Owner Operator LMIA is a special class of applications within the TFWP whereby a self-employed individual wishing to enter Canada can do so by establishing or purchasing a business. A foreign national would be considered to be an Owner-Operator if they establish that they have a controlling interest in the business and cannot be fired/dismissed (only answerable to themselves).

The Owner-Operator Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) program is described by many as the most sought-after path for potential self-employed business investors as it “fills the gap” characterized by the other business immigration programs. Applicants with successful Owner-Operator LMIA application improves their Comprehensive Score Rating CRS by 200 points.

Owner-Operator LMIA Program – Highlights

Program	Owner-Operator LMIA Program
Minimum Investment	CAD $250,000 to start a new business, buy a business/franchise
Experience	2 years of business management experience in the past 5 years prior to the submission of an application in a specific enterprise (agricultural, commercial, or industrial, OR management experience in a governmental or international organization) and in a position defined as full-time.
Managerial Role	Yes active managerial role required to apply
Interview	May be required as part of the application review.
Refundable Deposit	Not required
PR/Work permit	Either can be obtained at any sequence.
Additional Requirements	Background check and medical examination

Click below to see more Canadian business immigration programs.