The Self-Employed Persons Program is open to individuals with self-employed experience as farmers, athletes (at an international level), or artisans. To qualify under the Self-Employed Persons Program, an applicant must demonstrate that he/she has relevant agricultural, artistic, or athletic experience that will allow the applicant to be successfully self-employed in Canada and, to make a significant contribution to his or her field. Relevant experience consists of at least 2 years of experience* either self-employed or participating at a world class level in art, culture, recreation, or sport activities designated by Element Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
* Experience must be during the period starting 5 years before the day you apply and ending on the day IRCC make a decision on your application. At a minimum, your experience must be:
For cultural activities:
- 2 one-year periods being self-employed in cultural activities, or
- 2 one-year periods participating at a world-class level in cultural activities, or
- a combination of a one-year period described in (1), and a one-year period described in (2)
For athletics:
- 2 one-year periods being self-employed in athletics, or
- 2 one-year periods participating at a world class level in athletics, or
- a combination of a one-year period described in (1) above, and a one-year period described in (2) above
To qualify as a self-employed immigrant, the applicant must meet the definition of a self-employed person and, get a minimum of 35 points based on five selection criteria (experience, education, age, language abilities and adaptability) and point system.
Medical, security checks and other requirements
- You and your family members must have a medical exam and get police certificates.
- You must also show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family after you get to Canada.
Contact us for assessment and more information
