LMIA Owner Operator Business Plan

When seeking to hire foreign workers, companies are often required to receive a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) confirming that the foreign worker is required and that reasonable effort was taken to hire a current resident or citizen first. LMIAs are reviewed by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).

The LMIA Owner Operator program is a variation to this process. It is intended for foreign candidates who wish to purchase a controlling interest in a business and be involved in the daily operations. These candidates may receive a positive LMIA without advertising the position if they can demonstrate – through a business plan – that the arrangement will result in a neutral or positive impact on the overall business and labor market.

The LMIA Owner Operator business plan is therefore one of the most important aspects for application. It needs to make a compelling case that the business will have a positive impact on the economy and that the candidate is suited to run the business successfully.

At Ranpasat, we are passionate about business immigration and have contributed to hundreds of successful immigration cases. We know what ESDC expects to see and what is most important to them. This allows our expert team of business plan writers to craft a compelling, convincing, and sound business plan that will get you one step closer to obtaining your work permit.

Eligibility Requirement for an LMIA Owner Operator Business Plan

The businessperson’s critical requirement is to own a registered business in Canada with a controlling interest of more than 50%.

‍Other requirements include:

• Fund the business and maintain employment with a wage equal to or greater than the median wage requirements for the position.
• Be actively involved in the company’s management (i.e., not a passive investment) in a place that aligns with experience and qualifications.
• Use at least one Canadian citizen or permanent resident, ideally in the first year of operations of the business.
• Present a comprehensive business plan which describes a viable marketing opportunity and values economic benefit to Canada.