How to Immigrate to Canada as a Non Tech Professional

Many of you who want to start a non-technology business in Canada may believe that the Start Up Visa program (SUV) is your only immigration pathway. This common misconception often leads to missed opportunities, especially if you’re looking to buy a franchise, start a consulting business, start a traditional brick-and-mortar business, become self-employed, or operate a small owner-operator business with limited capital. You might prefer to avoid the high risks associated with technology start-ups and focus on more stable, manageable immigration streams.

Immigration Pathways for Non-Tech Entrepreneurs: Business Immigration Programs

Fortunately, Canada offers several alternative immigration pathways designed specifically for entrepreneurs who would like to immigrate to Canada without a tech background. Programs such as LMIA-based work permits, Entrepreneur work permits, and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) provide viable options for establishing your non-technology business without the need for a large investment or the high risks of a tech start-up. This article will guide you through these options, helping you find the best immigration pathway to bring your business dreams to life and settle in Canada permanently.

When starting a non-technology company in Canada, you have three main immigration options:

Option 1: C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit

This is a two-year work permit that allows you to come to Canada to start and work in your business. You can use this permit if you want to buy a new franchise, start a consulting business, or become a self-employed professional in Canada.

Although the C11 is a temporary permit, it is extendable as long as your business remains active and operational. You can also apply for permanent residency after one year using Express Entry or other Canadian immigration programs. This pathway is ideal for entrepreneurs with a high level of language proficiency and a clear business vision.

Advantages of the C11 Work Permit:

Quick processing times.
No minimum capital requirement.
Flexible business plans.
No need for support from a designated organization.

Disadvantages of the C11 Work Permit:

Transition to permanent residency may be challenging for those without a Bachelor’s degree or strong language skills (CLB 8 level).

→ Read a Successful Case Study here: From Pakistan to Canada: PR Through Business Immigration in 20 months.

Option 2: Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) for Entrepreneurs

For non-technology companies, utilizing Business PNP streams is an excellent option. Provinces like Nova Scotia, British Columbia, and Alberta offer robust PNP programs that allow foreign entrepreneurs to start a business in Canada with an investment as low as $100,000.

While other Canadian provinces also offer such Provincial Nominee Program streams, the above-noted provinces are more proactive in selecting candidates. The program can lead to Canadian permanent resident status within two years. This immigration program is ideal for entrepreneurs with senior managerial or business ownership experience who wish to start a business and live permanently in Canada.

Advantages of Provincial PNP Programs:

Low English language requirements (CLB 4-5)
Lower capital investment (minimum $100,000)
The flexibility to start a business that isn’t technology-focused.

Disadvantages of Provincial PNP Programs:

Formal Expression of Interest process
Longer wait times (over two years for PR and 6+ months for an initial work permit)
Requirement of a minimum net worth of $300,000. Additionally, your net worth and the source of funds must be verified by an authorized auditing company, adding another layer of formality to the process.

→ Read a Successful Case Study of a Vietnamese Businesswoman Finds Success in Alberta.

Option 3: LMIA Program (Owner-Operator)

Although the Owner-Operator LMIA program was modified in 2020, business owners of newly established companies in Canada can still use the Temporary Foreign Worker Program to secure an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) to support their work permit applications.

This work permit can later be used to transition to permanent residence. However, it’s important to note that ESDC is generally hesitant to issue an LMIA to start-up companies that are not yet actively engaged in business and lack customers to serve. Therefore, this option may not be suitable if your company is still in the establishment phase.

Advantages of the Owner-Operator LMIA Program:

Open to all active companies and nationalities without specific limitations.
It can sometimes provide a quicker route to securing a work permit and transitioning to permanent residency.
No need for a detailed business plan.

Disadvantages of the Owner-Operator LMIA Program:

Strict requirements for start-ups that have not yet gained traction.
Paying foreign workers the median wage.
Demonstrating recruitment efforts within Canada.

→ Read a Successful Case Study: From a Student to an Owner-Operator of a Business: PR in Canada.

Choosing the Right Path for Your Business Immigration

Choosing the right immigration pathway for your business in Canada depends on your unique circumstances, business idea, access to capital, location, and immigration goals. As a law firm specializing in business immigration, we are here to assist you at every step. We can help with company registration, business planning, market research, selecting the right immigration strategy, and processing applications for you, your family members, and key employees. We’ll also ensure you stay compliant, connect you with the right people, and guide you through transitioning to permanent residency. We’re committed to your success and will support you throughout your entire journey.

How We Can Help

At Sobirovs Law Firm, we specialize in business immigration and understand the unique challenges faced by foreign entrepreneurs.

We offer comprehensive support to help you successfully navigate Canada’s immigration system. Our services include business incorporation, business plan development, market research, immigration strategy selection, and application processing for you, your family, and key employees.

We also provide ongoing compliance support, connect you with valuable resources, and guide you through the transition to permanent residency. With our expertise and dedication, we are committed to helping you achieve your business and immigration goals in Canada.

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