On this page you will find:
- Current status of the program
- Who can apply and eligibility rules
- Definition of relevant experience
- Selection criteria and point system
- Medical, security, and settlement requirements
- Examples of eligible occupations
The Federal Self-Employed Persons Program, part of Canada’s business immigration offering, is designed for individuals with relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics who can make a significant contribution to Canadian society.
As of April 30, 2024, the program is paused and will not accept new applications until January 2027.
Who Can Apply?
To immigrate under this program, applicants must:
- have relevant experience in cultural or athletic fields
- be willing and able to be self-employed in Canada
- meet the program’s selection criteria
- pass medical, security, and other admissibility checks
Relevant Experience
Applicants must show at least two years of experience within the five years before applying. More years of experience (up to five) increase the points you can earn.
Experience can include:
- Cultural activities:
- two one-year periods of self-employment in cultural activities
- two one-year periods of participation at a world-class level in cultural activities
- a combination of one year of self-employment and one year of world-class participation
- Athletics:
- two one-year periods of self-employment in athletics
- two one-year periods of participation at a world-class level in athletics
- a combination of one year of self-employment and one year of world-class participation
Selection Criteria
The program uses a points-based system. Applicants are assessed on:
- experience
- education
- age
- language abilities
- adaptability
A minimum of 35 points out of 100 is required.
Medical, Security And Other Requirements
Applicants and their family members must complete a medical exam and provide police certificates. They must also show they have enough money to support themselves and their family after arrival in Canada.
Examples Of Eligible Occupations
The program has historically included a wide range of cultural and athletic occupations such as:
- librarians and archivists
- curators, authors, editors, and journalists
- translators and interpreters
- musicians, singers, actors, comedians, visual artists
- photographers, designers, artisans, and craftspeople
- athletes, coaches, referees, and other sports officials
The farm management option under this program was permanently closed in 2018.
FAQ
Is the Self-Employed Persons Program currently open?
No. The program stopped accepting applications on April 30, 2024, and will remain paused until January 2027.
Who is eligible to apply once the program reopens?
Applicants must have relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics, be willing to work for themselves in Canada, and meet all selection and admissibility criteria.
What counts as relevant experience?
You must show at least two years of self-employment or world-class participation in cultural or athletic activities within the past five years before applying.
How does the selection system work?
Applicants are scored on experience, education, age, language skills, and adaptability. You need at least 35 points out of 100 to qualify.
Are family members included in the application?
Yes. Family members are included, but they must complete medical exams and provide police certificates. You must also prove you have enough funds to support them in Canada.
