Maple News reports that recent changes to Canada’s immigration policies are reshaping the landscape for international entrepreneurs seeking to establish or expand their businesses in Canada.
Effective April 1, 2021, the federal government announced the closure of the Owner/Operator stream under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). This pathway previously enabled entrepreneurs to obtain work permits without undergoing the standard Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) advertising process. With this option off the table, business owners must now explore alternative routes.
Entrepreneurs from the United States and Mexico may qualify under the CUSMA Investor category. This LMIA-exempt permit allows majority owners or sole investors to manage new or existing businesses in Canada. Applicants must present a comprehensive business plan and show that substantial funds have been invested. Their proposed venture should contribute meaningfully to the Canadian economy, through job creation or other tangible benefits.
For European investors, the CETA Investor program offers a similar pathway. Qualified applicants may stay in Canada for up to a year without an LMIA if they hold a supervisory or executive position in a company committing significant capital to a Canadian business. A business plan and evident economic benefit are key for approval.
Another viable route is the Intra-Company Transfer program, which allows entrepreneurs to establish a Canadian affiliate, branch, or subsidiary of an existing foreign company. Applicants must have worked for the company for at least one year in a senior role and prove the viability of the Canadian operation—such as securing premises, outlining hiring plans, and presenting financial forecasts.
Meanwhile, U.K. entrepreneurs are currently in a transitional phase. Since January 1, 2021, they are no longer processed under the CETA framework. Instead, they will fall under the Canada-U.K. Trade Continuity Agreement, expected to be ratified soon. Until the new agreement is in force, U.K. investors must either apply with an LMIA or qualify under another LMIA-exempt work permit category.
Entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals who own at least 50% of a seasonal Canadian business—or who operate from abroad—may also be eligible for an LMIA-exempt work permit, provided their activities offer a cultural, social, or economic benefit to Canada.
While Canada eliminates some work permit streams, it continues to offer multiple tailored options to accommodate strategic entrepreneurial immigration. Applicants must align their business goals with eligible programs and demonstrate clear contributions to Canada’s economy.
Maple News will continue to monitor updates as Canada’s immigration programs evolve to foster innovation and attract global business talent.