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Owner and Operator LMIA

VisaVio is here to help you successfully navigate the Owner and Operator LMIA process, a specific category of work permit designed for business owners. With this permit, many business owners can secure the right to work in Canada, either by purchasing or establishing a business. Canada offers an ideal environment for entrepreneurs with its strong economy, diverse population, and welcoming business climate. The Owner and Operator LMIA program provides international businesspeople with a legitimate pathway to enter Canada to run their business operations while contributing to the Canadian economy.

Our Owner and Operator LMIA program caters to business owners and senior managers who wish to immigrate to Canada. Many of these individuals eventually secure permanent residency after obtaining a Canadian work permit. Through this program, entrepreneurs who own or manage more than 50% of a Canadian business can take advantage of various opportunities to achieve their goals in Canada.

Key benefits of the Owner and Operator LMIA program include:

  • Establishing or purchasing a business in Canada
  • Securing a Canadian work permit and pathway to permanent residency
  • Gaining control of a business and contributing to the Canadian labor market

At VisaVio, we ensure that your application for an Owner and Operator LMIA is handled with expertise and professionalism, so you can focus on growing your business in Canada.


Requirements for Owner and Operator LMIA

To qualify for the Owner and Operator LMIA program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • A viable or solid business plan that aligns with Canadian market needs
  • A verifiable management record or experience running a business
  • Possession of sufficient assets to purchase or establish a business in Canada
  • Proficiency in English or French to manage the business
  • A controlling interest in the company, either as a sole proprietor or majority shareholder
  • Proof that your temporary entry will create jobs for Canadians and permanent residents
  • Ownership of more than 50% of the business

It is important to note that simply holding shares in a company does not qualify a foreign investor for the Owner and Operator LMIA program. A job offer tied to the management of the business must accompany the application.


Process for Owner and Operator LMIA Program

The process for obtaining an Owner and Operator LMIA involves several key steps:

  • Buy or establish a business in Canada: The foreign investor identifies a business to purchase or build in Canada.
  • Obtain LMIA approval: VisaVio will assist in preparing and submitting a business plan to obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
  • Work Permit application: Once the LMIA is approved, the foreign investor can apply for a temporary work permit, typically valid for 12-24 months at a managerial level.
  • Participate in Express Entry: After one year of work experience in Canada, foreign investors may apply for permanent residency through the Express Entry program, often including family members in the application.
  • Obtain permanent residence and Canadian citizenship: After fulfilling the residency requirements, you may be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship.

VisaVio ensures that each step of this process is completed with care and precision, enabling you to focus on your business while we handle the legalities and paperwork.


Canadian Work Permit for Owner and Operator LMIA

The Owner and Operator LMIA program offers two distinct work permit options:

  • Work Permit based on an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment): A positive LMIA is required, along with a job offer for the foreign entrepreneur.
  • Work Permit based on the International Mobility Program (exempt from LMIA): Under certain conditions, entrepreneurs can apply for a work permit without an LMIA, provided they meet the exemption requirements.

Entrepreneurs seeking to work in Canada under the Owner and Operator LMIA exemption must demonstrate that their role is essential to the Canadian business. If you have already applied for permanent residence, you may be eligible to apply for an LMIA exemption work permit. VisaVio can assist in determining whether you qualify for an exemption or need an LMIA to proceed with your business plans.


What is a Controlling Share?

For those participating in the Owner and Operator LMIA program, holding a controlling share in the business is a key requirement. A controlling share means:

  • You are the sole owner or hold at least 50.1% of the shares
  • You are actively involved in the day-to-day management of the business
  • You cannot be fired from the business because you own a majority or all of the company

VisaVio can help you understand the nuances of ownership and ensure that you meet the necessary conditions for a successful application.


What is an LMIA?

An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is a document issued by the Canadian Labour Office that confirms hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market. Obtaining an LMIA can be challenging, as the Canadian company must prove they were unable to find a suitable candidate from within the Canadian permanent residents or citizens pool.

VisaVio specializes in assisting businesses in meeting the stringent requirements for LMIA approval, ensuring that you have the best possible chance of securing this critical document for your work permit application.


Benefits of the Owner and Operator LMIA Program

There are many advantages to pursuing the Owner and Operator LMIA program, including:

  • Higher economic justification compared to other Canadian immigration programs
  • Ability to obtain a work permit by submitting a solid business plan and supporting documents
  • No initial language certificate required—this can be provided after arriving in Canada
  • Freedom to choose any city in Canada, without being limited to a specific province
  • Children of business owners can attend school for free in Canada
  • Flexibility to change or purchase a different business after arriving in Canada
  • Opportunity to apply for permanent residency with immediate family members after one year of work in Canada

VisaVio is here to make the process as smooth as possible, providing expert guidance and support to help you establish your business and life in Canada.