Here we are talking about the Owner-Operator Business Visa Program. Those foreign investor entrepreneurs wishing to relocate to Canada within just several weeks may consider next:
- have at least 50% of ownership at the Canadian enterprise by acquiring an established Canadian business
- OR create a new business in Canada
- OR invest substantially in an enterprise
- be qualify for an LMIA-exempt work permit
- apply for a work visa as a management employee
General Qualifications of Owner-Operator
- Have the intention to invest a substantial amount of capital in an enterprise in Canada
- Be seeking to enter Canada solely to develop and direct the investment enterprise. This is established by showing at least 50% ownership of the enterprise or possession of operational control through a managerial position or another corporate device.
- Be able to demonstrate that such temporary entry will result in the creation or retention of employment opportunities for Canadians and permanent residents and skills transfer to Canadians and permanent residents
- Be able to demonstrate effective communication skills, to ensure the continuity of the existing business and the prognosis for effective skills transfer. (Language proficiency in the form of IELTS language test with a CLB of 5.0 in each of the 4 aspects is ideal, but many other proofs can be considered).
After a period of less than 1 year, successful temporary work visa holders can transition to permanent residence under a Provincial Program or as a Federal Skilled Worker under Express Entry.
A family of the Investors
Self-Employed investors may be accompanied or followed by spouses and unmarried underage children. These family members may seek proper non-immigrant classification as dependents and, if approved, generally will be granted the same period of stay as the Businessperson him/herself.