For years, Canada’s International Mobility Program (IMP) has served as a pathway for foreign business owners to temporarily operate in the country without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). But recent changes from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) are reshaping this route.
If you’re a business owner planning to come to Canada temporarily, the rules just got tighter, and it’s critical to know how these updates affect your eligibility.
Let’s break down what these changes mean and how they impact your plans to temporarily grow your business in Canada under the International Mobility Program.
Stricter Eligibility: What Has Changed?
As of May 27, 2025, IRCC implemented several new criteria to ensure that only serious business owners with clear economic intentions are approved under this program.
Here’s a quick look at the major updates:
| New Requirement | Details |
| Minimum 51% ownership | Applicants must now own a majority stake in the business. |
| Proof of business and support funds | Clear documentation must show sufficient finances to support both business and living expenses. |
| Work permit cap | Permits are now limited to a maximum of 18 months. |
| Demonstrated benefit to Canada | Applicants must provide evidence that their business will benefit Canada economically, socially, or culturally. |
These requirements aim to ensure that temporary business residents contribute directly to Canada’s growth and are not simply using the permit to gain entry without an active business plan.
The “Significant Benefit” Test: What It Means
One of the most crucial changes is the introduction of a new framework to assess what counts as a “significant benefit” to Canada.
This can include:
- Creating new full-time jobs for Canadians or permanent residents
- Introducing innovative products, services, or technology
- Contributing to regional economic development, especially in rural or underserved areas
- Supporting Canada’s cultural or artistic industries
If your business can’t meet these benchmarks, your application is likely to face rejection.
Tip: Include market research, projected employment figures, and community impact examples when submitting your application.
Limited Stay, Long-Term Planning
The updated IMP sets a maximum stay of 18 months for eligible business owners. This signals that the program is intended for those who plan to establish short-term operations or prepare for future permanent immigration through other streams.
Important Notes:
- This work experience does not count toward the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
- Applicants must submit their application from outside Canada, as per the new processing guidelines.
- Extensions are not guaranteed and will depend on proof of ongoing benefit to Canada.
If your goal is long-term immigration, consider combining your IMP stay with a future application under the Start-Up Visa Program or a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) for entrepreneurs.
Is the International Mobility Program Still Worth It?
With these new restrictions, many are asking whether it’s still worth applying. The answer depends on your goals.
If you:
- Already run a successful business abroad,
- Can invest in expanding into Canada, and
- Have a plan that benefits the local economy,
Then yes, the International Mobility Program can still be a valuable entry point into Canada’s business landscape.
But the bar is higher now. Applications need to be more detailed, more transparent, and more targeted toward measurable impact.
Adapting to Canada’s Changing Immigration Landscape
The International Mobility Program remains a viable option, but not without new hurdles. Business owners who meet the 51% ownership requirement, have adequate funds, and can show their venture benefits Canada still have a path forward. As Canadian immigration evolves, entrepreneurs must adapt to these higher standards to succeed. If you’re a business owner aiming to enter the International Mobility Program, careful preparation is your best tool for success.
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