Self-Employed Class

Self-Employed Class

This program is for foreign nationals who can create their own employment, by contributing athletically, culturally, or artistically to Canada’s job market. People with sufficient funds and relevant work experience can apply for the Self-employed Program. There is no minimum net worth and/or investment requirement for this program.

Program Requirements

Experience
Minimum two years of experience in last 5 years, either as self-employed or participating at a world class level in art, culture, recreation, or sport activities 
Education
No minimum education requirements
Age
Ideally between 18 to 50 years
Language
No language requirements 
Points  criteria
Must score a minimum of 35 points out of a 100
Medical & Security
Applicants and family members must undergo medical exams, and provide police certificates 
Financial
Must show funds to demonstrate that you can support yourself and your family to in Canada

Eligible professional occupations in art and culture

NOC
Occupation
5111Librarians
5112Conservators and curators
5113Archivists
5121Authors and writers
5122Editors
5123Journalists
5125Translators, terminologists, and interpreters
5131Producers, directors, choreographers, and related occupations
5132Conductors, composers, and arrangers
5133Musicians and singers
5134Dancers
5135Actors and comedians
5136Painters, sculptors, and other visual artists

Eligible technical occupations in art, culture, recreation, and sport

NOC
Occupation
5211Library and public archive technicians
5212Technical occupations related to museums and art galleries
5221Photographers
5222Film and video camera operators
5223Graphic arts technicians
5224Broadcast technicians
5225Audio and video recording technicians
5226Other technical and co-ordinating occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting, and the performing arts
5227Support occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting, photography, and the performing arts
5231Announcers and other broadcasters
5232Other performers (e.g., circus performers, magicians, models, puppeteers, and other performers)
5241Graphic designers and illustrators
5242Interior designers and interior decorators
5243Theatre, fashion, exhibit, and other creative designers
5244Artisans and craftspersons
5245Patternmakers – textile, leather, and fur products
5251Athletes
5252Coaches
5253Sports officials and referees
5254Program leaders and instructors in recreation, sport, and fitness

Selection Criteria

Candidates are assessed against the points assessment under various factors (education, experience, age, language & adaptability). The pass mark is 35 points out of 100.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Comprehensive Ranking System is a points-based system used to assess and score a candidate's profile to rank them in the Express Entry pool. Points are awarded for factors including age, education, language proficiency in English or French, work experience (both in Canada and internationally), and other factors. The higher the score, the better the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.