Self-Employed Persons Program

The Self-Employed Persons Program is a federal permanent residence program offered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for foreign nationals who meet certain criteria.

This program is intended for individuals who:

• Have relevant experience in the fields of cultural activities or athletics.
• Will make a significant contribution to the cultural or athletic life of Canada. 

You may apply if you:

• Have relevant experience, at least 2 years within the last 5 years in:
   
  • Self-employed cultural activities, or
     
  • Participation at a world-class level in cultural activities, or
     
  • Self-employed athletics, or
     
  • Participation at a world-class level in athletics.
     
• Are willing and able to be self-employed in Canada.
   
• Meet the program’s selection criteria (experience, education, age, language ability, adaptability).
   
• Satisfy medical, security and other requirements (medical exam, police certificates, proof of funds).

• Prepare Supporting Documents
   
• Submit Your Application
   
• Medical and Security Checks
   
• Final Review and Decision

Standard processing times have historically ranged from 24 to 48 months, depending on case complexity, country of residence, and background checks.

Status: paused until January 2027 

• You and your family will receive Permanent Resident (PR) visas.
   
• You will land in Canada and become permanent residents upon arrival.
   
• You can live, work, and study anywhere in Canada as PR holders.
   
• You are expected to continue your self-employed cultural or athletic activities in Canada.
   
• After meeting residency requirements, you may later be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship.

 Ready to take the next step?