Self-employed Persons Program
Introduction to the Self-Employed Persons Program
The Self-Employed Persons Program is an immigration pathway tailored for individuals with relevant experience in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management who wish to establish themselves in Canada. This program is designed to attract self-employed individuals who can contribute to Canada's cultural or agricultural sectors, enriching the country's diversity and economy. Applicants must demonstrate their ability to become self-employed in Canada, meet specific selection criteria, and successfully navigate the application process with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Successful applicants and their families gain Canadian permanent residency, allowing them to pursue their entrepreneurial goals and contribute actively to Canadian society. Here's an overview of the process:
Who can apply
To qualify for immigration as a self-employed person in Canada, you need to fulfill specific requirements:
Relevant Experience:
- You must have at least two years of relevant experience. This could involve being self-employed in cultural activities or athletics at a world-class level.
Capability to be Self-Employed:
- You should demonstrate the willingness and ability to become self-employed in Canada.
Meeting Selection Criteria:
- Your application will be assessed based on various criteria including your experience, education, age, language proficiency, and adaptability.
Medical, Security Checks, and Other Requirements:
- You and your family members must undergo medical examinations and obtain police certificates.
- You need to demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself and your family upon arrival in Canada.
Your relevant experience must occur within the five years before you apply and must meet specific criteria to qualify for points. This process ensures that you can contribute effectively to Canada's cultural or athletic sectors upon gaining permanent residency.
How to apply
If you're considering immigrating to Canada under the Self-Employed Persons Program, here’s how to apply:
Prepare Your Documents:
- Gather necessary documents such as proof of relevant experience, education credentials, language proficiency test results, and financial stability.
Assess Your Eligibility:
- Ensure you meet the program’s requirements for relevant experience in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management. Your experience must be within the five-year period before your application.
Complete the Application Form:
- Fill out the application form provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) accurately and completely.
Submit Your Application:
- Submit your application along with the required fees to IRCC. Ensure all documents are included and meet the specified criteria.
Undergo Assessment:
- IRCC will assess your application based on selection criteria including your experience, education, age, language abilities, and adaptability.
Medical and Security Checks:
- Complete medical examinations and obtain police certificates for you and your family members, demonstrating good health and character.
Wait for a Decision:
- Wait for IRCC to process your application and provide a decision on your eligibility for permanent residency.
Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR):
- If approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can make plans to immigrate to Canada.
Settle in Canada:
- Upon arrival, settle into Canadian life, including finding housing, healthcare, and other essential services.
By following these steps and meeting all requirements, you can successfully apply for permanent residency in Canada as a self-employed person, contributing your skills and expertise to the country's cultural or athletic sectors.
After you apply
After submitting your application under the Self-Employed Persons Program in Canada, here’s what to expect:
- Application Processing:
- Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will review your application to ensure it meets all eligibility criteria and includes all required documents.
- Additional Information or Interview:
- IRCC may request additional information or schedule an interview to further assess your qualifications, experience, and contribution to Canada’s cultural or athletic sectors.
- Medical and Security Checks:
- You and your family members must undergo medical examinations and provide police certificates to meet Canada's health and security standards.
- Decision on Your Application:
- IRCC will notify you of their decision regarding your application for permanent residency. This decision will be communicated through a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) if approved.
- Receive Your COPR:
- Upon approval, you will receive your COPR and a permanent resident visa (if applicable), allowing you to immigrate to Canada.
- Settle in Canada:
- Plan your move to Canada, including arranging housing, healthcare, and other essential services. Take advantage of settlement services to ease your transition.
- Start Your Self-Employed Endeavors:
- Once in Canada, establish yourself as a self-employed individual in your chosen field—whether in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management—as outlined in your application.
- Comply with Residency Obligations:
- Maintain your permanent resident status by meeting residency obligations, ensuring you fulfill the requirements to eventually apply for Canadian citizenship.
By following these steps and preparing for each stage of the process, you can navigate the post-application phase effectively and begin your journey as a self-employed resident contributing to Canada’s diverse cultural and athletic communities.
Prepare to arrive
Once your application under the Self-Employed Persons Program has been approved and you are preparing to immigrate to Canada, here are essential steps to consider:
Review Approval Documents:
- Ensure you have received your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and any required permanent resident visa (if applicable) from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Plan Your Travel:
- Arrange your travel to Canada, including booking flights and organizing transportation from the airport to your initial destination in Canada.
Prepare Important Documents:
- Gather all necessary documents for border entry, including your passport, COPR, and any other documents recommended by IRCC.
Financial Preparation:
- Ensure you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family upon arrival in Canada. This includes covering initial living expenses and business setup costs as outlined in your business plan.
Settlement Planning:
- Research and plan for settlement services available in your destination province or territory. These services can assist with finding housing, healthcare, education, and other essential services.
Network and Business Integration:
- Connect with local business networks, industry associations, and community organizations related to your field of self-employment. Networking can provide valuable support and opportunities for business growth.
Legal and Administrative Considerations:
- Address any legal or administrative requirements related to starting your self-employed business in Canada, such as business registration, permits, and taxation.
Familiarize Yourself with Canadian Culture and Norms:
- Learn about Canadian culture, laws, and societal norms to ease your integration and adaptation into Canadian life.
By preparing thoroughly for your arrival in Canada, you can ensure a smooth transition and focus on establishing yourself as a successful self-employed individual in your chosen field.
Check processing times
Processing times are updated regularly. Check back periodically to stay informed about any changes or updates to your application status.