A75 Work Permit: A Guide for Start-Up Entrepreneurs Seeking Entry to Canada

What is an A75 Work Permit?

The A75 Work Permit offers a pathway for qualifying foreign nationals endorsed by a designated entity through a Commitment Certificate or Letter of Support to obtain a short-term work permit, facilitating their entry into Canada. This permit is specifically geared towards applicants supported by designated entities under the Start-Up Visa Program.

What are the Eligibility Requirements for Applicants?

To be eligible for the A75 Work Permit, applicants must:

  • Demonstrate intent to reside outside Quebec.
  • Hold an Offer of Employment exempt from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) as a ‘self-employed’ individual.
  • Possess a Commitment Certificate from a designated entity affirming the essential nature of the work permit application and the urgency of the applicant’s entry into Canada.
  • Present a Letter of Support associated with a Commitment Certificate issued by a designated entity.
  • Have adequate financial resources to meet the low-income cut-off for their family size over a period of 52 weeks.

Work Permit Issuance

Applicants have the flexibility to apply for the A75 Work Permit at various entry points, including ports of entry, within Canada, or outside Canada, depending on their specific circumstances.

Can a Start-Up Work Permit Holder Bring a Spouse?

Yes, spouses of Start-Up Work Permit holders may apply for an open work permit based on their status as spouses or common-law partners of highly skilled workers, benefiting from LMIA Exemption C41. Entrepreneurs, classified under NOC code levels ‘0, A, or B’, are considered highly skilled. In cases where the spouse accompanies the principal applicant to Canada, the work permit application is accorded priority processing.