Self-employed Immigration

The Self-employed program is designed to attract foreign nationals who have the ability to employ themselves and make significant contributions to cultural activities, athletics (sports) or farming in Canada.

You need to meet the following requirements in order to apply::

• Relevant Experience (See below)
• Intention and ability to be self-employed that will create employment at least for yourself in Canada
• Intention to make a significant contribution in specified economic activities:
     - self-employment in cultural activities or in athletics or;
     - participation at a world-class level in cultural activities or athletics or;
     - purchase farming land and manage a farm
  

Relevant Experience:
A self-employed applicant must have self-employment experience in the fields of culture, athletics or farm management for more than two years within the last five years (period before the date of application or decision of permanent resident visa). The self-employment experience requirement does not apply to those who have participated in a world-class level in cultural or athletics activities for more than two years within the last five years. "World class" level identifies persons who are known internationally. It also identifies persons who may not be known internationally but perform at the highest levels in their discipline.

Examples of self-employed category:
music teachers, artists, illustrators, film makers, freelance journalists, choreographers, set designers, coaches/trainers, theatrical/musical directors, impresarios and farmers.

No immigration conditions are imposed on the self-employed class. You must have enough money to support yourself and your family members after you arrive in Canada.

Self-employed person's financial asset may also be a measure of intent and ability to establish economically in Canada. There is no minimum investment level for self-employed person. The capital required depends on the nature of the work.

If you would like to immigrate to Canada as self-employed, please fill out a Self-employed Free Assessment.