Self-employed persons

    The Self-Employed Persons Program seeks to attract applicants who have the intention and ability to become self-employed in Canada. Self-employed persons are required to have either:
    • relevant experience that will make a significant contribution to the cultural or athletic life of Canada or
  • experience in farm management and the intention and ability to purchase and manage a farm in Canada.

Learn about:

To be eligible as a self-employed person, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Have relevant experience
  • Meet the selection criteria for self-employed personsand
  • Meet medical, security and other requirements

Relevant experience

Relevant experience is defined as:
  • participation at a world-class level in cultural activities or athletics
  • farm management experience or
  • self-employment in cultural activities or athletics. Please consult the Related Links section at the bottom of this page for a list of activities that qualify. You will also find a link to definitions of terms that apply to self-employed persons.

Selection criteria

You will be assessed on selection criteria that include your experience, education, age, language abilities and adaptability, Medical, security and other requirements, you and your family members must pass a medical examination and security and criminal checks. 

    Self-employed: How to apply

    1. SIMPLIFIED PROCESS: There is a waiting list to come to Canada as an immigrant investor. This means it may be several years before your application is processed. The simplified application process guarantees your place in the lineup. Your application will be processed based on the regulations in effect on the date you submit your application, even if they change after you apply. More on Simplified process.

    2. You must use the regular application process if: you have been selected by Quebec and/or intend to settle there or you have been lawfully admitted to Canada for a period of at least one year and your application for permanent residence will be submitted to the Canadian visa office in Buffalo or you have been lawfully admitted into the United States for a period of at least one year and you are submitting your application to the Canadian visa office in Buffalo.

    Self-employeds: After applying

    You wait for your turn to come. You will be contacted by CIC department to submit your documents. After you submit you rdocuments, a Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) officer will verify that you have submitted all the required documentation. Officer will then call you for interview if required. Officer will issue you and your depends medical.

    Self-employed: Arrving

    Self-employed: Frequently Asked Questions

For more information Contact us.