Uniting for Innovation
This proposal aims to amend Canada's immigration and work permit policies to enable international students to pursue self-employment as a viable pathway to permanent residency. With over one million international students in Canada, many express interest in entrepreneurship, yet current policies exclude self-employment as qualifying work experience under the Canadian Experience Class and other streams. The proposal consequently seeks to recognize the contributions of international student entrepreneurs, support innovation, and foster economic growth. By offering a more inclusive pathway, Canada can harness global talent, drive job creation, and enhance its competitive edge in the global economy.
Who Does it Help?
Canadians
Study Permit Holders
Post Graduate Work Permit Holders
Temporary Residents, New Immigrants Push Up Canada Unemployment
- Bloomberg, July 05, 2024
How it Helps?
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Boost to the Economy: International student-led businesses would generate economic activity, increasing Canada's GDP and tax revenues.
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Job Creation for Canadians: These startups would create new job opportunities for local communities, helping reduce unemployment rates.
Immigrant Entrepreneurs Bring Jobs and Innovation, a new
research shows
- Forbes, May 23, 2024
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Fostering Innovation: International entrepreneurs bring fresh perspectives, driving technological advancements and creative solutions that benefit all Canadians.
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Strengthened Global Ties: By supporting international talent, Canada would enhance its global reputation, attracting further investment and partnerships.
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Diverse Workforce: A diverse entrepreneurial landscape enriches Canadian business culture and fosters inclusion, promoting a vibrant and innovative society.
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Regional Economic Growth: Startups often contribute to local development, especially in underserved areas, stimulating regional economies.
What are we Proposing?
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Amend the permissions afforded by the student work permit to include self-employment, OR,
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Enable self-employment as a viable alternative to gaining qualified work experience under the current structure of the Post Graduate Work Permit; OR,
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Enable self-employment as a viable alternative to gaining qualified work experience under the Post Graduate Work Permit after a year of work experience has been gained under an existing Canadian employer; OR,
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Adopt the United States Model: under the F-1 visa, students can “create a business plan and launch their own business. However, there are challenges when running the company and engaging in daily operations”; OR,
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Adopt a merit-based model: The Government of Canada would release an annual list of priority topics addressing pressing national issues (e.g., agriculture, technology, skilled trades, etc.). A certain number of international students who develop and present the most viable solutions to these challenges would become eligible for Permanent Residency.
Become a Partner
The success of this proposal depends on strong multi-sectoral collaboration. To make it a reality, educational institutions, industry leaders, government agencies, and non-profit organizations must unite to create a supportive environment for international student entrepreneurs. Universities can offer business incubators, mentorship, and entrepreneurial training, while industry leaders can provide insights and networking opportunities. Government agencies play a crucial role in policy adjustments, making self-employment a valid pathway to permanent residency.
Lawyer-ed invites educational institutions, businesses, and organizations to partner with us in shaping a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. Together, we can drive innovation, economic growth, and social impact across Canada.
Get Involved
To share your thoughts and opinions on how to improve our proposal, or for general and/or media inquiries, please write to us at:
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