Self-Employed Persons Program
Immigrate to Canada as a Self-Employed Person
Why Choose the Self-Employed Program?
- Direct pathway to PR: Permanent residency for you and your family while pursuing your passion.
- No minimum net worth requirement: Unlike other business programs, you don’t need to be wealthy or famous.
- Inclusive eligibility: Applicants over 50, with modest education, or with limited English/French skills may still qualify.
- Wide range of occupations: Open to professionals in arts, culture, media, sports, and related fields.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify under the Self-Employed Persons Program, you must:
Relevant Experience
At least 2 years of full-time experience (in the last 5 years) in:
- Self-employment in cultural activities or athletics, OR
- Participation at a world-class level in cultural activities or athletics, OR
- A combination of both.
Eligible Occupations
The program covers a wide range of professions, including:
- Arts & Culture: Authors, writers, journalists, editors, translators, interpreters, librarians, curators, archivists.
- Media & Entertainment: Producers, directors, choreographers, actors, comedians, musicians, singers, dancers, visual artists.
- Sports & Fitness: Athletes, coaches, referees, instructors in recreation and fitness.
Selection Criteria (Points System)
Applicants are assessed on a 100-point grid. The minimum passing score is 35 points.
| Factors | Maximum Points |
| Experience | 35 |
| Education | 25 |
| Language Proficiency (English/French) | 24 |
| Age | 10 |
| Adaptability | 6 |
| TOTAL | 100 |
Settlement Funds
Even though there is no set net worth requirement, applicants must show they have enough funds to settle in Canada and support their families.
Admissibility
Applicants and dependents must pass medical exams, police clearance, and biometrics.
Required Documents
Typical documents include:
- Valid passport or travel document
- Proof of relevant experience (contracts, portfolio, media coverage, awards, letters of reference, etc.)
- Educational certificates
- Language test results (if available)
- Proof of settlement funds
- Medical exam results, police certificates, biometrics
Application Process
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet experience and points requirements.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather proof of your experience, achievements, and settlement funds.
- Submit Application: Complete forms and send your application package to IRCC.
- Provide Biometrics & Exams: Complete biometrics, police verification, and medicals as requested.
- Application Assessment: IRCC evaluates your experience, intention, and ability to contribute to Canada.
- Obtain Permanent Residency: If approved, you and your family can settle and continue your careers in Canada.
How We Support You
At Shreehari Immigration, we help talented individuals navigate the self-employed immigration process:
- Eligibility assessment: Calculate your score and confirm if you qualify.
- Document preparation: Showcase your achievements and experience in the strongest way possible.
- Application support: Step-by-step guidance from forms to submission.
- Tailored advice: Strategies to highlight your cultural or athletic contributions.
Let our experts help you transform your passion into a Canadian opportunity. Book your free consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Professionals with experience in cultural activities or athletics who can make a significant contribution to Canada.
No. Unlike other business programs, there is no minimum net worth requirement. You only need enough funds to support yourself and your family after arrival.
Participation in international competitions, exhibitions, performances, or recognized cultural/athletic events.
Language skills are assessed, but even applicants with limited proficiency can qualify if they meet other criteria.
Processing varies, but expect 12–24 months depending on the case.
Take the Next Step
Book your consultation today and let Shreehari Immigration guide you through Canada’s Self-Employed Persons Program.