The Self-Employed Persons Program offers a pathway for individuals with experience in cultural or athletic fields to immigrate to Canada permanently. Although applications were paused on April 30, 2024, it’s important to understand how the program works for future opportunities. 

The program focuses on those who can make a meaningful contribution to Canada’s cultural or athletic landscape.

To qualify, applicants must have relevant experience, either in cultural activities or athletics, within the last five years. This could involve working at a world-class level or being self-employed in the field. 

The program has specific requirements, including passing medical and security checks and demonstrating that you have enough funds to support yourself and your family after arriving in Canada. Additionally, applicants are evaluated based on selection criteria such as age, education, language abilities, and adaptability.

Ways to Immigrate to Canada as a Self-Employed Person

There are a few key ways to qualify for this program. The main criteria include having relevant experience in either cultural activities or athletics. This experience must be either two one-year periods of self-employment or participation at a world-class level in the last five years. Applicants with more experience earn more points.

Cultural activities can include roles such as artists, musicians, and actors, while athletic experience may involve being a professional athlete, coach, or organizer of sports events. The program is designed to attract individuals who can enhance Canada’s cultural or athletic sectors. The more experience you have, the stronger your application will be. 

Additionally, factors such as education, age, language proficiency, and adaptability are considered in the overall assessment.

The process also includes an evaluation of your potential to succeed in Canada. So, even if you have relevant experience, ensuring you have a detailed plan for your future self-employment in Canada can greatly improve your application’s chances of approval.

Self-Employed Immigration Programs Fee

The fees for the Self-Employed Persons Program start at $2,385. This amount covers the processing of the application for both the primary applicant and any included family members. In addition to this, applicants must also pay for biometric services, which include fingerprinting and photographs. The biometrics fee is typically paid when submitting the application to avoid delays.

Other potential costs include third-party fees for medical exams, police certificates, and language testing. It’s essential to factor these costs into your budget when applying. Ensure that all fees are paid using Canada’s online payment tool to prevent any issues with the processing of your application.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Self-Employed Visa in Canada?

The processing time for the Self-Employed Persons Program can vary depending on several factors. On average, it can take up to 22 months for the visa to be processed. Delays can occur due to background checks, medical exams, or incomplete applications.

One of the critical steps in the process is providing biometrics, which includes submitting fingerprints and photos. After receiving a letter from the immigration office, applicants have 30 days to complete their biometrics. It’s important to stay on top of deadlines and submit any additional documents promptly to avoid further delays.

Additionally, factors like the volume of applications, the complexity of your case, and any security concerns may extend the processing time. Applicants should ensure all required documents are submitted in a timely manner to avoid setbacks. It’s also useful to regularly check for any updates regarding your application to avoid missing any steps.

How to Apply for Self-Employed Visa

Applying for the Self-Employed Persons Program is done entirely online. First, applicants must create an account in the Permanent Residence Online Application Portal. Once the account is set up, applicants must complete a series of digital forms, including the Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008) and Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669).

Additionally, supplementary information such as family details and travel history is required. Applicants may also need to upload PDF forms that apply to specific situations, such as the Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union (IMM 5409) or the Separation Declaration for Minors Travelling to Canada (IMM 5604).

It’s important to ensure all forms are filled out correctly, that the biometric fees are paid, and that all required documents are uploaded. Any mistakes or incomplete applications will result in delays or even rejection. Once the application is complete, the applicant must sign the forms electronically and submit the application.

After submission, you will receive further instructions, including details on how and where to submit biometrics. Keeping up with all requests for additional documents or information will help ensure the application is processed without delays.

Another key element in the application process is ensuring that your documentation is up-to-date and accurate. Changes in family status, work experience, or education must be reported to avoid complications later in the process. Applicants should carefully review their applications before submission to ensure all information is correct.

Are you a talented professional in culture or athletics looking for a fresh start in Canada? SEP Immigration can help you navigate the application process and ensure every step is handled with care. Contact us today to begin your journey toward becoming a permanent resident of Canada.