Self-employed Persons

How can I qualify to immigrate to Canada as a self-employed person?

To qualify as a self-employed person, you must have two years of relevant experience and show that you intend to become self-employed in Canada.

You must also score at least 35 points on a selection grid designed to determine whether you will be able to make an economic contribution to Canada.

How do I immigrate to Canada to become a self-employed person?

You must:

• meet the definition of a self-employed person;
• pass a medical examination; and
• pass criminal and security checks.

Find out more about how to apply.

What is the relevant experience requirement to immigrate as self-employed persons?

See this detailed definition of relevant experience.

Under the Self-Employed Persons Program, what does cultural activities mean?

Cultural activities include jobs generally seen as part of Canada’s artistic and cultural fields. Examples include:

• authors and writers,
• creative and performing artists,
• musicians,
• painters,
• sculptors and other visual artists,
• technical support and other jobs in motion pictures,
• creative designers and
• craftspeople.

Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) provides a full list of qualifying activities for self-employed persons.

Under the Self-Employed Persons Program, what is meant by a significant contribution?

There is no formal definition of “significant contribution.” Visa officers can use their judgment. A contribution to athletics or the arts, even at less than a national standard, may still be significant at the local level.

Please note that you must contribute to economic activities in Canada. This does not mean you cannot contribute to some activities outside of Canada.

Is there a net worth requirement for the self-employed program?

There is no regulated minimum net worth requirement. However, you will have to satisfy a visa officer that you have enough money to:

• settle in Canada with your dependants and
• finance the work on which your selection was based.

Find out more about the funds you need.

What are the language requirements to immigrate under the program for self-employed people?

If you applied as a self-employed person on or after March 3, 2011, you must include the results of an English or French language test with your application. This will ensure your language skills are considered when we assess your application.

It must be a third-party language test from an agency approved by IRCC.

This rule applies to all self-employed applicants who want to claim points for their language skills.