Self Employed

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:

  1. 2 one-year periods being self-employed in cultural activities, or
  2. 2 one-year periods participating at a world-class level in cultural activities, or
  3. a combination of a one-year period described in (1), and a one-year period described in (2)

For athletics:

  1. 2 one-year periods being self-employed in athletics, or
  2. 2 one-year periods participating at a world class level in athletics, or
  3. 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

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