Self- Employed Persons

The self-employed program provides an avenue for self-employed people like athletes (coaches, referees, and related occupations) and cultural workers (photographers, writers, performing artists, librarians, etc.). In this category, IRCC gives application points based on age, education, relevant experience, adaptability, and proficiency in English or French.

Requirements

• Have relevant experience for at least two out of the last five years from the date of application for a permanent resident visa
• Demonstrate the intention and ability to become economically established in Canada.
• Score at least 35 in the selection criteria points system. However, a visa officer can still approve an application if the score is less than 35 if the visa officer feels that the points are not a true reflection of the applicant’s ability to become economically established in Canada. The opposite is also true: a visa offer can deny an application with a score over 35 if the officer feels it is not a true reflection of the applicant.”