Self-Employed Persons Program

About This Program

The Self-Employed Persons Program was designed for foreign professionals with experience in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management who intended to become self-employed in Canada. If IRCC resumes the program, the following requirements are expected to apply.

Areas of Experience

There are three areas of qualifying experience:

• Cultural activities — singers, dancers, musicians, authors and writers, editors, journalists, translators, painters, artisans and craftspeople, interior and graphic illustrators, photographers, film and video camera operators, and more.
• Athletics — athletes (e.g. baseball player, boxer, figure skater, football player, golfer, hockey player, skier, and more), coaches, sports officials, referees, program leaders, and instructors in sport and fitness.
• Farm management — experience in managing a farm, with an intention to buy and manage a farm in Canada.

Additional Requirements

Having at least 2 years of experience in any of the three categories above qualifies you for this program. Additional requirements include:

• Education
• Language proficiency
• Age
• Sufficient funds to support yourself upon arrival in Canada
• Medical exam
• Police certificate

Exploring Alternative Pathways

While this program is suspended, there may be other immigration pathways available to you, including Provincial Nominee Programs or Express Entry. We can help you evaluate your options and find the best path forward.