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Canada’s Self-Employed Program is a great option for those who want to be self-employed in Canada. Unlike the Entrepreneur’s Visa Program, there is no net-worth requirement, allowing you the freedom to start your Canadian business on your own terms. To qualify, you must have at least two years of relevant experience in your field, and your application will be assessed based upon your education, age, language proficiency, and adaptability (ease of assimilating into Canadian society). You need to score at least 35 points on a selection grid designed to determine whether you will be able to make an economic contribution to Canada.

If you are looking to establish, invest in, or acquire a business in Canada, the immigration lawyers at Pax Law are here to help. We can advise you on the best strategy under the Self-Employed Program, and will ensure that your visa documentation is perfect, submitted correctly and on time.

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This Canadian immigration Self-Employed Program is designed to attract those applicants who intend and are able to become self-employed in Canada. A unique feature about the Self-employed Program which sets it apart from an Entrepreneur’s Visa Program is that there is no net-worth requirement. However, you must have sufficient funds for immigration purposes according to the usual visa procedure, this includes supporting any dependents (spouse or children) that you are intending to bring into the country with you. This means you have the freedom to set up your business on your own terms, contributing to the Canadian economy in your own unique way without the pressure of a certain profit margin or corporate mindset.

• have relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics; and
• be willing and able to make a significant contribution to the cultural or sporting life in Canada as artisans or as athletes at an international level

• at least two years experience of participation in cultural activities or athletics at a world-class level;
• at least two years experience of self-employment in cultural activities of athletics; or
• at least two years of farm management experience

The National Occupation Classification (NOC) of Canada has a complete list of all the career types that fall under these two categories which, for the most part, there is no exception to.

Application will be assessed based on your:

• Experience – At least two years experience in your field (points up to five years)
• Education – Relevant tertiary or skills qualification in your field
• Age – Ideally between the ages of 18 and 35
• Language abilities – Proficient in Canada’s official languages (basic, moderate, high)
• Adaptability – How easy it would be to assimilate into Canadian society

Self-employed persons who intend to live in Quebec are not eligible under this program and should apply under the Quebec Self-Employed Program.