What do Artists, Musicians, Athletes, and farmers have in common? Not much! But they all may qualify to immigrate to Canada as Self Employed Persons.

Over the years, we’ve helped many people immigrate as Self Employed persons. These have included “Rappers” from Korea; Symphony musicians from Taiwan; Artists and Kung Fu Masters from China; Concert pianists from Singapore; and Farmers from India. You can’t get a more diverse group than that!

No matter what their background, we’ve helped them through the Canada Immigration system, by reviewing their case, advising on how they can prove their qualifications, preparing them for their interview, and taking through the system. We’ve had them bring their Portfolio’s, CD’s and other examples of their work, and in some cases, they’ve even demonstrated their Kung Fu at the interview!

A Self Employed person is an immigrant who intends and has the ability to be self employed in Canada, in cultural activities, athletics, or in managing a farm. If you have participated at a world class level in your field, you don’t have to have been self employed before coming to Canada.

Self Employed persons are foreign nationals who have 2 years of “relevant experience”, and have the intention and ability to be self employed in Canada, and to make a significant contribution to “specified economic activities” (cultural activities, athletics or the purchase and management of a farm) in Canada.

Self Employed persons must obtain an assessment of 35 points on the Self Employed Assessment Grid.

Relevant Experience means at least 2 years experience in:

1. Self employment in cultural activities or in athletics;
2. Participation at a world class level in cultural activities or athletics; or
3. Farm management experience.

You don’t need to prove you will hire any employees; however, you must show that the proposed business will generate enough income to support yourself and your family. Farmers, artists, sports personalities, actors, consultants, and musicians are examples of applicants who may qualify.

It is similar to the Entrepreneur category except that:

1. No investment is required;
2. No minimum net worth is required;
3. No employees are necessary;
4. The visa is unconditional, rather than conditional.

The information on CanadaVisaLaw.com’s Web Site has been prepared so you may learn more about the services we offer. These materials do not constitute legal advice, and are not intended to provide specific advice about your particular situation. Because the law constantly changes and is subject to varying interpretations, we urge you to contact us regarding any specific problem you may have, and we advise you not to take, or refrain from taking, any action based upon materials in this Web Site without consulting legal counsel.