Hiring American spouse for my Canadian small business, both US residents

[bikerbirder]

We run a small business in the US, and are thinking of starting a similar seasonal small business in Canada (BC). As the Canadian, I would run that business, whereas my husband runs our business here in the US. I am a PR of the US, and am both employed and work for my spouse. If we seasonally live in Canada and start a small business, my husband would be an integral component - what would we need to file so he could work for me?

Thanks!

 

[scylla]

He would need a work permit to work in Canada.

If the job fall under NAFTA, he may be able to apply for a work permit at the border without obtaining an LMIA.

If the job does not fall under NAFTA, you as his employer will need to obtain an approved LMIA in order for him to obtain a work permit. This is quite an involved process and likely not immediately feasible after bringing your business to Canada. More info about LMIAs here: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/foreign-workers/hire/median-wage/high.html