Federal Self-employed Persons

Are you self-employed and looking to come to Canada? You may be eligible for the Self-Employed Persons Program, if you:

• Have at least 2 years of relevant experience in arts or sports

• Are willing and able to be self-employed in Canada 

• Meet the programs selection criteria

• Meet medical, security and other conditions 

Your experience is relevant if you have:

- Taken part in cultural activities or athletics at a world-class level or 

- Been a self-employed person in cultural activities or athletics 

For cultural activities:

- 2 years ( not continuous) being self-employed in cultural activities, or

- 2 years ( not continuous) participating at a world-class level in cultural activities, or 

- A combination of one year in (a) and (b)

For athletics 

- 2 years (not continuous) being self-employed in athletics, or 

- 2 years (not continuous) participating at a world class level in athletics, or 

- A combination of one year in (a) and (b)

The benefits of this program include no language requirement and immigration without having to work or study in Canada first. Applicants will need to submit their business plan on their proposed Canadian business venture and show a high chance of being financially self-sufficient. Applicants will also be asked to attend an interview several months before a decision is made on their application.

If you plan to immigrate to Quebec, the province has its own immigration program and you can not apply for the Federal Self-Employed Persons Program.