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Immigration Trends

C11 Work Permit: Entrepreneur & Self-Employed Pathway to Canada

https://youtu.be/FlatvlDRnAk?si=FVjIQMJZL5MPT59x Canada offers unique pathways for entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals through the International Mobility Program (IMP). One such route is the C11 work permit, which allows eligible individuals to work in Canada without an LMIA, provided their business brings significant economic, social, or cultural benefits to the country. Purpose of the C11 Work Permit The C11 permit is designed primarily for: Entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals. Those intending to operate a business in Canada that will generate economic growth, social value, or cultural contributions. This work permit provides a strategic opportunity for international business owners to enter Canada and legally operate their enterprise while contributing positively to Canadian society. Eligibility Criteria To qualify for a C11 work permit, applicants must generally: Own a controlling interest (usually 50% or more) in the business. Demonstrate that the business will: Create jobs for Canadians or permanent residents. Transfer knowledge or skills to the Canadian market. Contribute to local or national development. Show proof of capability, including: A detailed business plan. Sufficient financial means to start and operate the business. Relevant experience or a track record of business success. LMIA Exemption The C11 work permit is issued under LMIA Exemption Code C11, allowing IRCC to approve your work permit without the traditional labor market assessment, streamlining the process for qualified entrepreneurs. This pathway is ideal for international entrepreneurs who are ready to invest in Canada and contribute significant benefits while securing a legal work permit. To understand if the C11 work permit is right for your business and to explore the application process safely, book your first free in-person consultation with an experienced Canadian immigration lawyer today.

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Express Entry + Manitoba PNP Roadmap: From EOI to PR

https://youtu.be/VYsQTh4h8KI?si=Mls1gw94Si22GLXE Navigating Manitoba Nominee Program (MPNP) through Express Entry can be challenging, but understanding each step makes the process smoother. This guide breaks down the roadmap from Expression of Interest (EOI) to Permanent Residency (PR). Step 1: Apply for PGWP As an international student, you must apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) within 90 days of completing your program or before your study permit expires. This allows you to start working in Canada and maintain legal status. Step 2: Create Express Entry Profile To enter Express Entry, you need: At least 1 year of work experience TEER 0 to 3 occupations Minimum CLB 7 Once your Express Entry profile is ready, you can connect it to your MPNP EOI profile. Step 3: Submit Your EOI There are three options depending on your situation: On-Field & In-Demand Job: Submit under International Education Stream (IES) on your first day of employment, no need to wait for your first pay stub. Inside Manitoba Skilled Worker: Submit after 6 months of employment. Outside Manitoba Skilled Worker – Submit after 12 months of employment. Selected candidates receive a Letter of Advice (LOA) and submit the MPNP nomination application, which currently takes 9–12 months. Step 4: PR Application A successful nomination adds +600 points to your Express Entry profile. You will then receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), usually within 15–20 days. After submitting your PR application, you get your Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR), making you eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit. Step 5: PR Processing PR processing typically takes about 6 months. During this period, you will complete: Biometrics Pre-arrival services Portal submissions eCOPR issuance PR card delivery Step 6: Avoid Common Pitfalls Many refusals occur due to: Incorrect NOC Incomplete applications Insufficient work experience or finances Loss of employment Failure to meet PNP conditions To maximize your chances, book your first free in-person consultation at 204-22-2786 and ensure your application is accurate and complete.

Immigration Trends

How to Determine Your NOC

https://youtu.be/FgxBxbHCWew?si=E-06Mgc_FHgQQ_f5 Minor NOC errors can result in major refusals. That’s why it’s critical to identify your correct NOC before applying. What is NOC? The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is Canada’s standardized system for classifying jobs. Every job has a unique five-digit code that reflects: Job title Duties Industry Required education or training Examples: NOC 63200 means Cooks 65201 means Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers, and related support occupations Step 1: Understand the First Digit The first digit shows the broad occupational category: Digit Category Example 0 Management occupations Restaurant managers 1 Business, finance, and administration Accountants 2 Natural and applied sciences Technicians 3 Health occupations Nurses 4 Education, law, community services Teachers 5 Arts, culture, recreation, sport Musicians 6 Sales and service Retail salespersons 7 Trades, transport, equipment Electricians 8 Natural resources, agriculture Farmers 9 Manufacturing and utilities Factory workers Step 2: Check the Second Digit (TEER Level) The second digit shows the TEER (Training, Education, Experience, Responsibilities). TEER 0: Management jobs TEER 1: University degree jobs (e.g., doctors, accountants) TEER 2: College/technical diploma or apprenticeship (2+ years) TEER 3: College/apprenticeship (less than 2 years) TEER 4: High school or job-specific training TEER 5: No formal education required Example: NOC 63200 (Cook) → Second digit is “3,” meaning TEER 3 (college diploma/apprenticeship under 2 years). Step 3: Narrow Down With the Third, Fourth & Fifth Digits 3rd digit: Major group (broad field). 4th digit: Sub-major group (specialization). 5th digit: Unique occupation within the group. Example (Healthcare): 31300 → Nursing coordinators 31301 → Registered nurses 31302 → Nurse practitioners  Example (Trades): 72300→ Plumber 72301→ Pipefitter  Step 4: Read the Official NOC Profile Each NOC profile includes: Lead Statement (overview of the job) Main Duties (what you must perform in your role) Employment Requirements (education, training, certifications) Exclusions (similar jobs that don’t count under this NOC) Example: A Cook (63200) must prepare and cook complete meals. Jobs at Tim Hortons or McDonald’s do not qualify because they don’t meet this definition. Official NOC database: Cook NOC 63200 Chefs NOC 62200 Why Accuracy Matters Submitting the wrong NOC can lead to: Procedural fairness letters (PFL) Rejection of your application Potential misrepresentation issues To avoid these risks, book your first free in-person consultation with our immigration lawyer. We’ll help you identify the correct NOC and strengthen your application.