Self-Employed program goals

The Self-Employed program was developed to encourage the entry of experienced business persons to Canada who are able to make a substantial investment and thereby create employment and contribute to the economic well-being of Canada.  In order to be approved as an Self-Employed, the applicant must first meet the regulatory definition of a Self-Employed and then comply with the selection criteria for that category of immigrant.

Who is a Self-Employed Immigrant

The following aspects of the regulatory definition should be factored into assessment of a Self-Employed Immigrant:

• intends and has ability to do business in Canada;

• able to establish or purchase a business in Canada;

• will create an employment opportunity for himself;

• will make a significant contribution to the economy or the cultural or artistic life of Canada.

Selection

Applicants are accessed on a point system. Eight factors are taken into consideration. Self-Employed applicants are required to achieve 35 points out of possible total of 100, in order to qualify. Applicants are accessed on the following factors: 

• Education;

• Business Experience;

• Age;

• Knowledge of English and French;

• Adaptability.

Features of the Self-Employed Program

• no immigration "terms and conditions" are imposed requiring the applicant to set up his/her business;

• self-employed immigrants must have the ability to establish a business that will at a minimum create an employment for themselves which will make a significant contribution to the economy or to Canada's artistic or cultural life.

There is no minimum investment level for a self-employed person. The capital required depends on the character of the business. The applicant must have a sufficient amount to create an employment for himself and support his/her family. The applicant must show that he/she has been able to support himself and family through his talents and would be likely to continue to do so in Canada. This includes the ability to be self-supporting until his employment will be created. 

One year of work experience (or equivalent) is required, previous self-employment is not a pre-requisite. A person's experience or past success in business may be strong indicators of ability to establish a business in Canada. Hands on experience in management may also be an excellent measure of ability.