What is the Self-Employed Program?

The Self-Employed Program is a Canadian immigration program for self-employed individuals who have relevant experience either (a) by taking part in cultural activities or athletics at a world-class level or (b) by being a self-employed person in cultural activities or athletics.

What is considered relevant experience under the Self-Employed Program?

To be considered relevant experience, an applicant under the Self-Employed Program must have gained at least 2 years of experience during the period starting 5 years before the day you apply and ending on the day a decision is made regarding your application.

The following count as relevant work experience:

• 2 one-year periods being self-employed in cultural activities or athletics
• 2 one-year periods participating at a world-class level in cultural activities or athletics
• a combination of 2 one-year periods each for both of the above

What occupations are eligible for the Self-Employed Program?

Some eligible professional occupations for the Self-Employed Program are:

• Librarians, archivists, conservators and curators
• Writing, translating, and related communications professionals
• Creative and performing artists

Some eligible technical occupations for the Self-Employed Program are:

• Technical occupations in libraries, public archives, museums, and art galleries
• Photographers, graphic arts technicians, technical occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting, and performing arts
• Announcers and other performers
• Creative designers and craftpersons
• Athletes, coaches, referees

For a full list, please click here.

How are applicants for the Self-Employed Program assessed?

Your experience, English/French language skills, age, education, and certain adaptability factors are used to assess your eligibility, using a 100-point grid system. You earn points based on your qualifications for each of the factors. The current pass mark is at least 35 points.

Can family members accompany the principal applicant?

Yes, you can bring family members that you declared in your application. These include:

• your spouse or common-law partner
• your dependent child (<22 years old)
• your spouse or common-law partner’s dependent child
• a dependent child of a dependent child

How long is the processing time and what are the processing fees?

Assuming your application is complete and accurate, Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) can process applications within 24 months.

The processing fee and right of permanent resident fee for the principal applicant is C$1,540. The fees for your spouse or common-law partner are C$1,040. The fee for each dependent child is C$150.

What are the key considerations in submitting an application?

The requirements might look simple on paper, but often applications are rejected because the documents submitted were inaccurate, incomplete, or non-compliant. Here are some key considerations when applying for the Self-Employed Program:

• How can your application strongly support that your experience will make a significant contribution to the Canadian economy?
• How can you demonstrate your intent and ability to continue these cultural or athletic activities in Canada?
• What impact would your net worth have on your application?
• Can you adjust to issues quickly, and manage changes without errors or delays?