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Self-Employed PR

Self-Employed Persons Program

Canada's Self-Employed Persons Program (SEPP) offers permanent residence to individuals with world-class experience in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management who intend to make a significant contribution to Canadian cultural or athletic life, or to manage a farm.

Processing Time22–24 months
Min. Experience2 years
Min. Score35 / 100 points
Language Req.CLB 4 (farm exempt)

Who Is This Program For?

Cultural Activities

Performing artists, musicians, visual artists, authors, film directors, photographers, choreographers, and other cultural professionals who have experience in their field at a world-class level and intend to be self-employed in Canada in their field.

Athletics

Athletes who have competed at a world-class level (Olympic, Paralympic, or equivalent international competition) and plan to contribute to Canadian athletic life as a competitor or coach at the world-class level.

Farm Management

Experienced farm owners and operators with a genuine intention to purchase and operate a farm in Canada. Farm management applicants are not required to meet the language requirement or the "significant contribution" standard.

Eligibility Requirements

Points Selection Grid

FactorMax Points
Experience35
Education25
Age10
Language (English or French)20
Adaptability10
Minimum Required35 / 100

Application Process

1
Self-assessment — Calculate your points using IRCC's self-assessment tool. Ensure you meet the 35-point minimum and have 2+ years of qualifying experience.
2
Gather documents — Portfolio of work, contracts, awards, media coverage, competition results, or other evidence of world-class experience. Language test results. Education credentials.
3
Complete medical exam — Book with a designated panel physician and complete the immigration medical examination.
4
Submit application — File IMM 0008 and supporting documents with IRCC (online submission). Pay application fees.
5
Decision — IRCC reviews your experience and self-employment intent. If approved, you receive permanent residence for yourself and your family.

Fees

FeeAmount
Principal Applicant$1,365 (processing + RPRF)
Spouse / Common-Law Partner$1,085
Dependent Child (each)$175
Biometrics$85 per person

Is the Self-Employed Program Right for You?

Book a free consultation with David Johl, RCIC, to assess your experience, calculate your points, and determine if the Self-Employed Persons Program is your best pathway.

This page is for general information only and does not constitute immigration legal advice. Program rules change frequently — always verify details at canada.ca. For personalised guidance, consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). Mirus Immigration · David Johl · RCIC R519520.