Canada offers several programs for permanent residence, including those provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the various provinces. These include the popular federal Express Entry programs, family sponsorship programs, and provincial nominee programs. However, one lesser-known option is the Federal Self-Employed program. This program is not widely promoted and lacks comprehensive information on official government websites, requiring the expertise of experienced lawyers. To qualify, applicants must have relevant experience, meet selection criteria, be willing and able to be self-employed in Canada, and meet medical, security, and other conditions. The program has a minimum of 35 points out of 100 for applicants to qualify.
The program has several advantages, including serving as a one-step process to permanent residence and lacking any candidate pools or invitations to apply. The “world-class” experience is not a strict requirement; individuals do not have to be famous or at the top of their field globally to qualify. The self-employed experience must be at the same occupation as the one back in the home country. Having a combination of self-employed and employed experience does not disqualify applicants. Additionally, incorporated company ownership and management may qualify, but it is recommended to seek guidance from an experienced immigration lawyer.
Immigration laws change frequently, and it’s important to stay updated. For the most recent information, visit the official website of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The information in these articles is not legal advice.