Many international entrepreneurs are looking at Canada as the next destination to expand their business. One of the most practical ways to enter the Canadian market is through purchasing a franchise. Whether it’s a restaurant, retail operation, tutoring center, or service brand, Canada has a strong and growing franchise industry — and the Canadian immigration system offers pathways for qualified business owners to live and work in Canada with their families.
Below is a simple breakdown of how a foreign franchise company can open in Canada and how a buyer of that franchise may qualify for a Canadian work permit and, eventually, permanent residence.
Why Franchise Ownership Works Well for Immigration
Buying a franchise gives applicants an advantage because:
- The business model is already proven
- Training and support are provided by the franchisor
- The brand may already be recognized internationally
- It is easier to show viability, a critical requirement for immigration cases
For immigration, the key is active management. Canada will not issue a work permit simply because someone owns a business — the owner must be genuinely involved in daily operations and decision-making.
Main Immigration Options When Buying a Franchise in Canada
1. C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit (Self-Employed / No LMIA Required)
This is the most popular option for franchise buyers.
The C11 work permit is for entrepreneurs who will bring significant economic benefit to Canada. It does not require an LMIA and is ideal when purchasing a Canadian franchise.
Who qualifies?
The applicant must show:
- They are buying or establishing a real, operational business in Canada
- They have experience relevant to running the franchise
- They will actively manage the business
- The franchise will create jobs or contribute economically to the local community
Why franchises fit well with C11
A franchise already has:
- A business plan
- Standard operating systems
- Training structures
- Projected revenues
This makes it easier to demonstrate that the business will be successful — a major requirement under C11.
Family benefits
- Spouse: Eligible for an open work permit
- Children: Eligible for study permits or visitor records
- Entire family can move together
2. Owner-Operator LMIA Pathway (If Still Applicable Under Current Rules)
In some cases, franchise buyers may still use the Owner-Operator structure if they:
- Purchase a controlling share of the franchise
- Can demonstrate they will manage and run the business
- Show genuine benefit to the Canadian labour market
Under this pathway:
- The business applies for an LMIA
- The applicant receives a work permit supported by that LMIA
This route can sometimes provide higher points for Express Entry later.
3. Provincial Entrepreneur and Business Immigration Streams
Several provinces offer entrepreneur pathways that recognize franchise investment, such as:
- Ontario Entrepreneur Stream
- British Columbia Entrepreneur Immigration
- Alberta Rural Entrepreneur Stream
- Manitoba Business Investor Stream
- Atlantic provinces’ regional business programs
These programs typically require:
- Minimum net worth
- Minimum business investment
- Job creation commitments
- In-province residency and management
Franchise ownership often meets program requirements more easily than starting an independent brand from scratch.
Can Franchise Ownership Lead to Permanent Residency?
Yes — many franchise investors ultimately transition to Canadian permanent residence.
Possible routes include:
1. Express Entry (after Canadian work experience)
Work experience earned under a valid work permit may increase eligibility for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or contribute to points for Express Entry.
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Some provinces nominate business owners after they operate the franchise successfully for a defined period.
3. Federal Self-Employed / Entrepreneur Strategies
If the franchise relates to cultural, athletic, or specialized self-employment, other federal pathways may be available.
What About the Children?
One of the biggest advantages of business immigration is that children can accompany the applicant.
While the parent holds a work permit:
- Children under 18 can attend public schools
- Older children may study with a study permit
- After the family becomes permanent residents, children gain access to full benefits, including domestic tuition and health coverage depending on the province
Steps to Start the Process
1. Select a franchise that qualifies for immigration purposes
Not all franchises meet the immigration standard — it must be a real, operational business with strong economic potential.
2. Prepare a detailed business plan
Canada requires realistic, credible, well-supported business plans.
3. Finalize ownership structure and investment documentation
4. File for the appropriate work permit (C11 or LMIA-supported)
5. Move to Canada and begin active management of the franchise
6. Work toward permanent residence eligibility
NPZ Law Group Can Assist
Our Canada Immigration Team supports entrepreneurs, franchise buyers, and international businesses as they expand to Canada. Whether you are purchasing a single franchise unit or planning a multi-location expansion, we help you:
- Assess the best immigration pathway
- Review franchisor agreements
- Prepare C11 or LMIA applications
- Craft high-quality business plans and supporting evidence
- Guide your family’s work and study permit applications
- Establish long-term permanent residence strategies
If you or your family are exploring franchise ownership as a pathway to Canadian immigration, please contact us to discuss your options.
Contact Information
If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.