Being self-employed in Canada doesn’t disqualify you from Canadian immigration streams. Economic streams often need a year of work evidence.
A candidate’s work history is evaluated by IRCC against the NOC system. To determine whether their work history is suitable for the program.
Applicants who apply to a skilled worker program may be eligible to use their foreign self-employed job experience toward eligibility requirements. Documents that prove that you have been self-employed. Accepted by the IRCC, include articles of incorporation and self-employment revenue proof. As well as letters from third parties detailing the services rendered.
Also, if you are interested in applying for self-employed immigration to Canada, you have numerous options.
The Federal Self-Employed Persons Program
Self-employed foreigners with appropriate arts or sports experience and relevant self-employment experience can settle in Canada as permanent residents through the Federal Self-Employed Persons Program. As well as, a candidate must demonstrate knowledge, desire, and capacity to make a significant contribution to Canadian sports or culture to be considered for the program.
Moreover, applicants are required to have two years of previous self-employed employment or to have participated in world-class level cultural or athletic endeavors, as determined by IRCC.
In order to be eligible, a minimum score of 35 is required. It is based on factors such as language proficiency, education, age, experience, and adaptability.
Quebec’s Self-Employed Worker Immigration Program
If independent professionals or tradespeople succeed in establishing themselves in the province under the Quebec Self-Employed Worker Program, they can obtain permanent residency.
According to the Quebec government, self-employed persons must also fulfill the following conditions in order to qualify for the program:
- Select the method of work execution.
- Arrange and manage the tasks.
- Supply necessary tools and equipment.
- Undertake specialized duties primarily.
- Bear profits and potential losses from the work.
Furthermore, to qualify, you must be 18 years old or above. Self-employed in Montreal requires a $50,000 start-up deposit, and outside Montreal, it’s a minimum of $25,000.
To be considered for the Quebec Economic Class program, an applicant must receive a passing grade. In addition to their education, professional experience, fluency in both English and French, Quebecois ancestry, age, financial independence, down payment size, and financial resources, candidates earn up to 99 points (112 if they are accompanied by a spouse or common-law partner).



