If you are interested in settling in one of Canada’s provinces or territories as a professional athlete, farmer, or artisan, you may be eligible to obtain a business immigrant visa for yourself and immediate family. This is an opportunity for individuals who do not wish to invest their personal funds into another business or government to establish themselves among their peers in Canada.

Federal Self-Employed Program

The Federal Self-Employed Persons Program assesses the eligibility of business immigration applicants using a point-based grading system. Applicants must possess two years of relevant work experience within their field as proof that they can be gainfully self-employed in any Canadian province except Quebec.

Eligibility Requirements:

1. Relevant Work Experience: At least two years of experience in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management within the five years preceding the application.
2. Intention and Ability: Demonstrate the intention and ability to be self-employed in Canada.
3. Selection Criteria: Applicants are assessed based on selection criteria, including experience, education, age, language abilities, and adaptability.
4. Medical, Security, and Other Conditions: Meet the medical, security, and other conditions.

Quebec Self-Employed Program

Similar to its federal counterpart, the Quebec Self-Employed Program requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to be successfully self-employed within their industry. This program also imposes a minimum net worth requirement and the intent to reside in Quebec.

Eligibility Requirements:

1. Relevant Work Experience: At least two years of experience in the profession you intend to practice in Quebec.
2. Net Worth: Have net assets of at least CAD $100,000 obtained legally, including those of a spouse or common-law partner if applicable.
3. Initial Deposit: Make an initial start-up deposit at a financial institution in the region where you intend to practice your profession.
4. Language Proficiency: Knowledge of French is not mandatory but may increase the chances of selection.
5. Intention to Reside in Quebec: Demonstrate the intention to reside in Quebec.
6. Selection Criteria: Applicants are assessed based on criteria such as age, education, experience, language proficiency, and financial self-sufficiency.

Provincial Nominee Programs for Self-Employed Workers

If an applicant wishes to settle in a particular province, they may choose to apply under its own Self-Employed stream of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Each province and territory has its own set of eligibility requirements and selection criteria.

General Eligibility Requirements:

1. Relevant Work Experience: Demonstrate relevant work experience in the desired profession.
2. Proof of Funds: Show proof of sufficient personal funds to establish yourself and support your family in the province.
3. Intent to Reside: Demonstrate the intention to reside in the province or territory.
4. Business Plan: Submit a detailed business plan outlining how you plan to establish and maintain your business.
5. Additional Criteria: Meet additional criteria that may vary by province, such as language proficiency, age, and adaptability.

Each province may have unique streams and criteria under their PNP. It’s important to review the specific requirements of the province you are interested in.