Self-Employed Persons Program
Canada’s Self-Employed Persons Program is a pathway to permanent residence for individuals in cultural or athletic professions who can make a significant contribution to Canada’s cultural or athletic life.
Important update: As of April 30, 2024, IRCC has paused new intake for this program to reduce backlog, but is continuing to process already-submitted applications.
How it works:
Meet eligibility – You must have at least two years of relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics and intend to be self-employed in Canada.
Point-based selection – A score of 35 points or more (out of 100) on IRCC’s grid is required.
Pass checks – Medical, criminal, and security screenings are mandatory.
Settle and contribute – While there’s no fixed net-worth threshold, you must convince the visa officer that you have enough funds to settle and pursue your self-employed activity.
Why consider this route?
For artists, athletes, and cultural professionals, this offers a unique PR path that values your creative or athletic talents.
No limitations on where you settle—contribute to Canada’s cultural vitality wherever you choose.
If your application was already submitted before the pause, IRCC is still processing it.
With Nivara Immigration, we assess your background, help you maximize your score, and guide you through the submission—even amid the current pause.
