Self-Employed

Self-Employed Persons Program

Explore Canada’s Federal Self‑Employed Program with Shreehari designed for applicants with significant experience in cultural activities or athletics who plan to contribute to Canada’s cultural or athletic landscape.

Graduation

Immigrate to Canada as a Self-Employed Person

Canada’s Self-Employed Persons Program is designed for foreign nationals with experience in cultural activities or athletics who can make a significant contribution to Canada’s cultural or sporting life. Successful applicants and their families receive permanent residency and the opportunity to continue their careers in Canada.

Why Choose

Why Choose the Self-Employed Program?

Direct pathway to PR:

Permanent residency for you and your family while pursuing your passion.

No minimum net worth requirement:

Unlike other business programs, you don’t need to be wealthy or famous.

Inclusive eligibility

Applicants over 50, with modest education, or with limited English/French skills may still qualify.

Wide range of occupations:

Open to professionals in arts, culture, media, sports, and related fields.

Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

Relevant Experience

Eligible Occupations

The program covers a wide range of professions, including:

Arts & Culture: Authors, writers, journalists, editors, translators, interpreters, librarians, curators, archivists.
Media & Entertainment: Producers, directors, choreographers, actors, comedians, musicians, singers, dancers, visual artists.
Sports & Fitness: Athletes, coaches, referees, instructors in recreation and fitness.

Requirements

Required Documents

Typical documents include:

Valid passport or travel document
Proof of relevant experience (contracts, portfolio, media coverage, awards, letters of reference, etc.)
Educational certificates
Language test results (if available)
Proof of settlement funds
Medical exam results, police certificates, biometrics
Business plan or proposal demonstrating intended self-employment in Canada
Proof of potential clients or contracts in Canada

Selection Criteria (Points System)

Applicants are assessed on a 100-point grid. The minimum passing score is 35 points.

Factors	Maximum Points
Experience	35
Education	25
Language Proficiency (English/French)	24
Age	10
Adaptability	6
TOTAL	100

Settlement Funds

Even though there is no set net worth requirement, applicants must show they have enough funds to settle in Canada and support their families.

Admissibility

Applicants and dependents must pass medical exams, police clearance, and biometrics.

Start your journey

Support

How Shreehari Supports You

At Shreehari Immigration, we help talented individuals navigate the self-employed immigration process:

Eligibility assessment: Calculate your score and confirm if you qualify.
Document preparation: Showcase your achievements and experience in the strongest way possible.
Application support: Step-by-step guidance from forms to submission.
Tailored advice: Strategies to highlight your cultural or athletic contributions.

Let our experts help you transform your passion into a Canadian opportunity. Book your free consultation today.

FAQ

Got questions? We’re on it.

Who can apply under the Self-Employed Program?

Professionals with experience in cultural activities or athletics who can make a significant contribution to Canada.

Is there a minimum investment or net worth required?

No. Unlike other business programs, there is no minimum net worth requirement. You only need enough funds to support yourself and your family after arrival.

What is considered “world-class level” experience?

Participation in international competitions, exhibitions, performances, or recognized cultural/athletic events.

Do I need to be fluent in English or French?

Language skills are assessed, but even applicants with limited proficiency can qualify if they meet other criteria.

How long is the processing time?

Processing varies, but expect 12–24 months depending on the case.