Self Employed Program

Immigrate to Canada as a Self-Employed Professional

Canada’s Self-Employed Persons Program is ideal for individuals with proven experience in cultural or athletic fields who can contribute meaningfully to Canada’s creative or sporting landscape. Eligible applicants and their families can obtain permanent residence and continue building their professional careers in Canada.

Why Choose the Self-Employed Persons Program?

  • Permanent residence made accessible: Secure PR for you and your family while continuing your professional journey in Canada.
  • No wealth threshold required: This program focuses on talent and experience, not financial status or public recognition.
  • Flexible eligibility criteria: Applicants over 50, with average academic backgrounds or basic English/French proficiency may still be eligible.
  • Broad professional scope: Open to individuals working in arts, culture, media, sports, and other creative or athletic fields.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible under the Self-Employed Persons Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Relevant Experience You must demonstrate a minimum of two years of full-time experience within the past five years in one or more of the following:
  • Self-employment in cultural or athletic fields, or
  • Participation at an internationally recognized or world-class level in cultural or athletic activities, or
  • A combination of both self-employment and high-level participation

This experience should clearly show your ability to become economically established in Canada.

Eligible Occupations

The program is designed for professionals across a broad range of cultural and athletic fields, including but not limited to:

  • Arts & Culture Authors, writers, journalists, editors, translators, interpreters, librarians, curators, and archivists
  • Media & Creative Industries Producers, directors, choreographers, actors, comedians, musicians, singers, dancers, and visual artists
  • Sports & Fitness Professional athletes, coaches, referees, and recreation or fitness instructors

Selection Criteria (Points-Based Assessment)

Applicants are evaluated using a 100-point assessment system, with a minimum eligibility score of 35 points required to qualify. Points are awarded across the following factors:

Assessment Factor Maximum Points
Relevant Experience35
Educational Qualifications25
Language Proficiency (English and/or French)24
Age10
Adaptability6
Total100

Settlement Funds

While there’s no fixed net worth requirement, applicants need to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their family members upon settling in Canada.

Admissibility

All applicants and their dependents must successfully complete medical examinations, provide police clearances, and submit biometric information as part of the eligibility process.

Required Documents

Applicants will typically need to provide the following:

  • A valid passport or travel document
  • Evidence of relevant experience (contracts, portfolio, media coverage, awards, or reference letters)
  • Educational certificates
  • Language proficiency test results (if applicable)
  • Proof of sufficient settlement funds
  • Medical examination reports, police clearances, and biometrics
  • Business plan or proposal outlining intended self-employment in Canada
  • Proof of potential clients, contracts, or work opportunities in Canada

Application Process

  • Check Your Eligibility: Confirm that you meet the experience and points criteria.
  • Prepare Your Documentation: Collect proof of your professional experience, achievements, and financial readiness.
  • Submit Your Application: Complete all required forms and send your application package to IRCC.
  • Provide Biometrics and Medicals: Complete biometrics, police verifications, and medical examinations as required.
  • Application Review: IRCC will assess your experience, intention, and ability to make a meaningful contribution in Canada.
  • Obtain Permanent Residency: Once approved, you and your family can move to Canada and continue your careers.

How Live Better Immigration Supports You

  • Eligibility Assessment: Evaluate your profile and determine if you meet program requirements.
  • Document Preparation: Present your experience and accomplishments in the most compelling way.
  • Application Assistance: Step-by-step support from form completion to submission.
  • Customized Guidance: Expert strategies to showcase your cultural or athletic contributions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Individuals with professional experience in arts, culture, or athletics who can make a meaningful contribution to Canada’s cultural or sporting sectors.

No. Unlike other business immigration streams, there’s no minimum net worth requirement. Applicants only need sufficient funds to support themselves and their dependents after arriving in Canada.

Experience includes participation in recognized international competitions, exhibitions, performances, or notable cultural or athletic events.

While language abilities are evaluated, applicants with limited proficiency may still qualify if they meet the program’s other eligibility criteria.

Processing times vary depending on the case, typically ranging from 12 to 24 months.
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