Program delivery update: Business owners seeking only temporary residence – [R205(a) – C11] – International Mobility Program

This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by IRCC staff. It is posted on the department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders.

May 27, 2025

Significant changes have been made to these instructions about business owners (entrepreneurs or self-employed) seeking only temporary residence:

Changed the title of the instructions from “Entrepreneurs or self-employed individuals seeking only temporary residence” to “Business owners seeking only temporary residence”
Added a new section, “Definitions”
Under “Eligibility,” added a requirement about having sufficient support and business funds
Under “Documentary evidence,” added instructions on providing proof of having sufficient support and business funds and documentary evidence showing how the work of the foreign national’s business will create or maintain significant cultural, social or economic benefits
Added new instructions about the place and method of application
Added new instructions on proof of support and business funds
Added new instructions on temporary or seasonal period of stay
Added instructions on how to assess significant benefit to Canada and provided examples
Specified that the validity of the work permit should not be longer than 18 months
Added instructions that the work experience gained does not count for Canadian Experience Class purposes
Under “Degree of ownership,” specified that the issuance of work permits for business owners should be considered only when the applicant controls at least 51% of the business in question
Added instructions on extensions and refusals

Updated instructions