Self-employed Class
Your Pathway to Canadian Immigration
What is Self-employed Class?
The Self-Employed Persons Program in Canada is designed for individuals who intend and are able to become self-employed in Canada. This program provides a pathway to permanent residency for individuals who can make a significant contribution to Canada’s cultural or athletic sectors.
Definition of a Self-Employed Person
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), a self-employed person is a foreign national who has:
- Relevant experience
- The intention and ability to be self-employed in Canada
- The capacity to make a significant contribution to Canada’s economy, arts, or sports sectors
Key Requirements for the Self-Employed Class
Eligibility Criteria
To immigrate as a self-employed person, you must:
- Have relevant experience
- Be willing and able to be self-employed in Canada
- Meet the program’s selection criteria
- Satisfy medical, security, and other conditions
Relevant Experience
Your experience is considered relevant if you have:
- Participated in cultural activities or athletics at a world-class level OR
- Been self-employed in cultural activities or athletics
Experience Requirements
You must have at least two years of relevant experience within the five years before applying and up to the decision date of your application.
Significant Contribution
Although not explicitly defined, a significant contribution can range from national to local impact. For example, a dance teacher in a small town could still qualify under this category.
Occupations Eligible for the Self-Employed Class
Eligible occupations fall under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) Unit Group 5, which includes:
- Librarians, archivists, conservators, and curators
- Authors, writers, editors, and journalists
- Translators, terminologists, and interpreters
- Producers, directors, choreographers, musicians, singers, and dancers
- Actors, comedians, painters, sculptors, and visual artists
- Photographers, graphic designers, and illustrators
- Interior designers and decorators
- Athletes, coaches, sports officials, and referees
Points System and Application Process
The Self-Employed Persons Program operates on a points-based system with a maximum of 100 points. You must score at least 35 points to qualify.
| Criterion | Maximum Points |
| Education | 25 |
| Experience | 35 |
| Age | 10 |
| Language Proficiency (English/French) | 24 |
| Adaptability | 6 |
| Total | 100 |
Applicants must also meet medical, legal, and other requirements.
Application Process
Federal Self-Employed Visa
Applications for the federal Self-Employed Visa have been paused until January 2027 to allow IRCC to process the existing backlog. Until then, alternatives include the Quebec Self-Employed Visa or other self-employment pathways.
Quebec Self-Employed Visa
If you wish to settle in Quebec, you must apply to the Government of Quebec for a Selection Certificate. To qualify, you must have at least two years of eligible self-employment experience within the five years before applying.
Alternatives to the Self-Employed Persons Program
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Some provinces offer self-employed streams within their PNPs, each with its own selection criteria.
- Canada Start-Up Visa Program: Designed for entrepreneurs looking to establish a new business in Canada.
- Buy a Business and Move to Canada: A viable pathway for those interested in purchasing an existing business in Canada.
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