Self Employed Visa Canada – Immigrate To Canada As A Self-Employed Person

The Self-Employed Visa program (Self-employed Persons Program) also known as in Canada serves as a gateway for individuals with unique skills and experience to establish themselves as self-employed contributors to the country’s economy.

This program is designed for professionals in fields such as arts, culture, sports, and agriculture, this immigration pathway seeks to attract those who can bring diversity and innovation to Canada.

Eligibility Requirements for  Self-Employed Persons

Eligibility Requirement: To be considered for assessment, a foreign national must meet the Government of Canada’s definition of a self-employed person.

Definition of Self-Employed Person: According to the Canadian government, a self-employed person is someone with relevant self-employed experience in cultural or athletic activities.

Experience Criteria: To qualify, individuals need at least two years of experience either self-employed or participating at a world-class level in cultural activities or athletics, as per Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines.

What is Relevant Experience

Your experience is considered relevant if you have participated in cultural activities or athletics at a world-class level. Alternatively, if you have been a self-employed person in cultural activities or athletics, your experience is also deemed pertinent.

For Cultural Events

1. Self-Employment in Cultural Activities: Two one-year periods of being self-employed in cultural activities for Self-employed Persons Program.
2. World-Class Participation: Two one-year periods of participating at a world-class level in cultural activities.
3. Combination Option: A combination of one-year self-employment in cultural activities and one-year participation at a world-class level

For Athletics

1. Self-Employment in Athletics: Two one-year periods being self-employed in athletics.
2. World-Class Athletic Participation: Two one-year periods participating at a world-class level in athletics

Selection Criteria For Self-Employed Persons

Candidates expressing interest in Self-employed Persons Program are evaluated based on the points assessment for self-employed business immigration to Canada. The minimum passing score for the self-employed persons’ program is 35 out of 100 points.

How To Apply For Self-Employed Person

1. Eligibility Check:
   • Review the eligibility criteria outlined by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
   • Ensure that you meet the minimum requirements, including relevant experience in cultural activities, athletics, or a combination thereof.
2. Documentation Preparation:
   • Gather all necessary documents, such as proof of relevant experience, educational qualifications, language proficiency test results, and any other documents specified by the IRCC.
3. Business Plan Creation:
   • Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your proposed self-employed venture in Canada.
   • Highlight the potential economic and cultural contributions your business will make.
4. Points Assessment:
   • Assess your eligibility by calculating points based on factors like age, education, language proficiency, and experience.
   • The minimum pass mark is 35 out of 100 points.
5. Online Application Submission:
   • Complete the online application form available on the official IRCC website.
   • Upload all required documents and pay the application fee.
6. Biometrics and Medical Examination:
   • Attend a biometrics appointment at a designated location.
   • Undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician to ensure you meet health requirements.
7. Wait for Processing:
   • Allow time for the immigration authorities to process your application. Processing times may vary.
8. Interview (if required):
   • Be prepared for an interview if the immigration officials request one. This may be to further assess your eligibility and business plans.
9. Decision Notification:
   • Receive a decision on your application. If approved, you will be issued a Self-Employed Visa.
10. Permanent Residence Application (if applicable):
    • If granted a Self-Employed Visa, you may apply for permanent residence after meeting the conditions outlined by the IRCC.

Eligible occupations within Canada’s artistic, cultural and athletic fields include

Other eligible occupations include

• Creative and performing artists
• Technical support and other jobs in motion pictures
• Creative designers
• Social media influencers
• Craftspeople
• Professionals in the motion picture industry

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do you qualify for self-employed Canada visa?

To qualify for the Self-Employed Canada Visa, you need relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics and must demonstrate the ability to contribute to Canada’s cultural or athletic scene

How much is a self-employed visa for Canada?

The fee for a Self-employed Visa is around $2,140.

Do you need a work permit to be Self-Employed in Canada?

Yes, self-employed individuals in Canada typically need a work permit, such as the Self-Employed Program or another applicable work permit, to legally engage in self-employment activities in the country.

Do I need to register as self-employed Canada?

Yes, if you are self-employed in Canada, you generally need to register your business with the appropriate provincial or territorial authorities.