immigration, where applicants are required to invest a sum of their own funds into a company or government, or acquire funding from a private organization, eligible applicants are instead only asked to provide proof of their experience within their industry as well as evidence supporting their claims to being successfully self-employed.

Federal Self-Employed Program Requirements

At least two years of relevant work experience in the applicant’s professional industry are required within the five years that precede their business immigration application.

Professional athletes and individuals in the arts and culture industry must either provide proof of: 

Two years of being self-employed within their industry, or

Two years of participating at a world-class level within their domain, or

A combination of one year of each of the above.

Self-employed persons wishing to own and operate a farm must be equipped with two years of farm management experience within the five-year period immediately preceding their application. All those applying to the Federal Self-Employed Program must intend to settle in any Canadian province or territory with the exception of Quebec, who has its own self-employed immigration program.

Selection Criteria for Federal Self-Employed Program

In addition to meeting the experience requirements, applicants will also be graded on a point system to better assess their eligibility for a Self-Employed Visa.