Foreign Camp Owners and Outfitters May Apply for a C11 Work Permit 2025
On December 9, 2025, IRCC released comprehensive guidance on foreign camp owners, directors, and outfitters. This group includes foreign nationals who own or operate tourism camps, hunting and fishing lodges, or youth recreational camps in Canada.
The update clarifies who qualifies for an LMIA-exempt work permit under C11 and who must still apply for an LMIA as a regular employee.
What Is a Camp Owner or Outfitter?
- Camp owners or directors are individuals who own or manage tourism camps, hunting lodges, fishing lodges, or recreational camps.
- Outfitters are businesses that provide hunting, fishing, or outdoor expedition services, often catering to international clients.
Because these models generate local revenue and create seasonal employment, IRCC may consider them eligible for an LMIA-exempt work permit under the Significant Benefit category (C11).
- Who Qualifies for LMIA Exemption Under C11?
✔ Sole owners or majority owners
Eligible if they can demonstrate that their business provides significant benefit to Canada.
✔ Equal-share co-owners
For example, five partners each holding 20 percent ownership. All may qualify for C11 if the economic benefit can be demonstrated.
✔ Spouses of eligible C11 owners
May also qualify for a C11 work permit if the relationship is genuine and legally valid.
- Who Does NOT Qualify for LMIA Exemption?
✘ Minority owners
If they hold a small ownership share and perform operational work, they must apply through the LMIA process like regular employees.
✘ Employees, guides, or non-owners
Not eligible for C11 and must follow the LMIA process.
✘ Activities that do not constitute “work”
If an outfitter accompanies clients into Canada but does not provide services within Canada, performing only administrative or support functions, they may qualify as a business visitor and may not require a work permit.
- How IRCC Assesses “Significant Benefit”
The assessment threshold for this group is lower than for other C11 cases due to the seasonal nature of the business. IRCC considers:
- Revenue generated in Canada
- Spending on Canadian goods and services, land leases, and equipment
- Number of jobs created for Canadians
- Real impact on the local tourism industry
- Whether the business competes unfairly with or harms Canadian operators
IRCC recommendation: Outfitters should obtain letters of economic benefit from local governments or tourism associations to strengthen the application.
- Supporting Documents
IRCC may request:
- Provincial outfitting or operating licenses
- Land lease agreements and financial records
- Business plans and proof of ownership
- Description of services and pricing structure
- Verification of Spousal Relationships
Spouses are only eligible if the relationship is genuine. If concerns arise, IRCC may request additional explanations before making a decision.
- Work Permit Decision
If approved:
- A work permit is issued under C11
- Validity depends on the contract or passport expiry
- Eligible spouses may receive a work permit under the same category
Foreign camp owners and outfitters are a special subgroup within C11. IRCC is standardizing its assessment approach to ensure that only businesses delivering real economic benefit to Canada receive LMIA exemptions.
If you operate a hunting lodge, fishing camp, outdoor resort, or seasonal camp in Canada, SICON can assess your business model, identify which owners qualify under C11, and prepare a strong evidence package demonstrating significant benefit.
📩 Contact SICON for a professional C11 eligibility assessment.
