What kind of experience is accepted for the Self-Employed Persons Program?

Acceptable experience includes participation at a world-class level in cultural or athletics events, or being self-employed in cultural activities or athletics.

How long does the process take?

Processing times vary, but it can take several months to over a year depending on individual circumstances and the completeness of your application.

Can family members accompany the main applicant?

Yes, your spouse or common-law partner, and dependent children can also be included in your application.

Is there a minimum income required?

There isn't a specific minimum income requirement, but you need to show that you have the financial resources to support yourself and any dependents.

Do I need to provide a police certificate?

Yes, you need to provide a police clearance certificate from each country where you have lived for 6 months or longer since the age of 18.

What type of documents should I include in my portfolio?

Include evidence of your achievements, such as awards, media coverage, contracts, and anything that demonstrates your contributions and success in your field.

Is there an age limit for applying?

There is no specific age limit, but younger applicants may be assessed more favorably in terms of their ability to establish themselves.

Is it necessary to have a business plan?

While not mandatory, a robust business plan can significantly strengthen your application by clearly demonstrating your self-employment plans.

Do I need to undergo a language test?

Language skills are not mandatory, but proficiency in English or French can help with your adaptation and is taken into consideration.

Can I apply online for the Self-Employed Persons Program?

Currently, applications are typically submitted via mail. It's crucial to review the latest guidelines on the official IRCC website.

Canada Self-Employed Persons Program Guide

Find out everything you need to know about Canada Self-Employed Persons Program application process and requirements.

What Is the Canada Self-Employed Persons Program?

The Self-Employed Persons Program for Canada is designed for individuals who have relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics and intend to become self-employed in Canada. To be entitled to this visa, applicants must show that they have participated in cultural or athletic activities at a world-class level or have been self-employed in those areas. The goal of the visa is to enrich Canadian culture and sports by bringing in talented, self-motivated individuals who can contribute and thrive independently.

Self-Employed Persons Program Requirements for Canada

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your Self-Employed Persons Program for Canada. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Relevant Experience
You must have at least two years of experience in cultural activities or athletics, either by participating in world-class level events or being self-employed in these areas.
Intent and Ability to be Self-Employed
Show that you have the intention and ability to create your job and contribute to the cultural or athletic landscape in Canada.
Supporting Documents
Provide documents that support your application, including proof of your achievements and financial ability to support yourself while you establish your business or career.
Medical and Security Check
Undergo a medical examination and security background check to ensure you are admissible to Canada.

How to Apply for Canada Self-Employed Persons Program

Understand the process of applying for an Canada Self-Employed Persons Program, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Determine Eligibility
Before you dive into the application, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, including having at least two years of relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics and the intent and ability to become self-employed in Canada.
Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents to support your application, such as proof of experience, portfolio of your work, financial statements, and identity documents.
Complete Application Forms
Fill out the required application forms, including the generic application form for Canada (IMM 0008) and the additional forms specific to the Self-Employed Persons Program.
Pay the Application Fees
Submit the necessary application fees. Keep a receipt of the payment as it is part of your application.
Submit Your Application
Send your completed application forms and all required documents to the address specified by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Make sure the package is complete to avoid delays.
Wait for Confirmation and Further Instructions
After submission, you will receive a confirmation from IRCC. Follow any additional instructions provided, such as attending interviews or submitting additional documents if required.

Useful Canada Self-Employed Persons Program Resources

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

Self-Employed Persons Program Overview

Application Forms and Guides

Government of Canada Homepage

Canada Self-Employed Persons Program Advice

It’s crucial to prepare a robust and compelling portfolio showcasing your achievements in cultural activities or athletics to support your application for the Self-Employed Persons Program. Include detailed evidence of your past roles, accomplishments, and any notable recognitions. This will significantly strengthen your case and display your potential contribution to Canada.

Canada Self-Employed Persons Program Guide

What Is the Canada Self-Employed Persons Program?

Self-Employed Persons Program Requirements for Canada

Relevant Experience

Intent and Ability to be Self-Employed

Supporting Documents

Medical and Security Check

How to Apply for Canada Self-Employed Persons Program

Determine Eligibility

Gather Required Documents

Complete Application Forms

Pay the Application Fees

Submit Your Application

Wait for Confirmation and Further Instructions

Useful Canada Self-Employed Persons Program Resources

Canada Self-Employed Persons Program Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

Canada Passport Details and Ranking 2024