C11 Work Permit Lawyer

The C11 work permit is for foreign business owners and entrepreneurs who want temporary entry to operate or establish a business in Canada. This category is part of the International Mobility Program under R205(a), which allows entry where the applicant’s work will create significant economic, social or cultural benefits for Canada. I assist clients with strategy, documentation, and legal submissions for this highly scrutinized category.

C11 Work Permit Overview

The C11 category applies to self-employed individuals and entrepreneurs who:

• own at least 51 percent of the business
• intend to operate a temporary or seasonal business in Canada
• can demonstrate sufficient support funds for living expenses
• have business funds separate from support funds
• can show that their proposed work will create significant benefits or opportunities for Canadians or permanent residents

C11 is intended for business owners seeking temporary residence only. Applicants who intend to transition to permanent residence may consider other economic pathways.

Who This Service Is For

This service is suitable for:

• foreign entrepreneurs who plan to establish a new business in Canada
• self-employed individuals offering specialized services not readily available in a region
• business owners expanding into Canada with supporting evidence of significant benefit
• clients needing a structured business plan and legal analysis aligned with R205(a) criteria
• applicants preparing for submissions on economic impact, innovation, job creation, and temporary intent

Legal Representation Provided

The firm provides comprehensive legal representation for C11 work permits, including:

Eligibility and Strategy

• Review of business concept and ownership structure
• Analysis of temporary purpose requirements
• Guidance on meeting the significant benefit threshold
• Assessment of support funds and business funds
• Review of proposed business activities and location strategy

Evidence and Documentation

• Review of required documents, including:
  • proof of ownership
  • business plans
  • financial documents and proof of funds
  • corporate structure documents
  • support from suppliers, partners or clients
  • evidence of economic or social impact
• Preparation of Employer Portal explanations for R205(a) benefit criteria
• Guidance on submitting Employer Compliance documentation and fees

Application Preparation

• Preparation and organization of all application forms
• Drafting of legal submissions addressing:
  • regulatory requirements under R200
  • significant benefit analysis
  • temporary intent assessment
  • genuineness of the offer of employment
• Review of NOC selection, duties and job requirements
• Coordination of supporting documents, translations and business evidence

Complex Situations

• Applications requiring advanced evidence regarding:
  • job creation
  • regional economic development
  • innovation or technology transfer
  • remote or underserved locations
• Addressing concerns about self-employment and de facto permanence
• Responding to prior refusals or notes in GCMS
• Guidance for renewal applications that must demonstrate benefits already delivered

When to Seek Legal Assistance

C11 work permit applications are complex, especially where the officer must evaluate temporary intent and significant economic benefit. Legal assistance is recommended if:

• your business operates in a competitive urban area
• your funds need clear provenance
• your business plan requires revision to meet IRCC standards
• you need to justify why the business provides benefits during your temporary stay
• you intend to apply for an extension and must document actual benefits provided
• you have limited ties outside Canada or complex residence history