Self-Employed Persons Program (SEP) – Art / Culture / Athletics
This is an immigration pathway for self-employed professionals in art, culture and athletics fields. The purpose of this program is to attract foreign professionals who have relevant experience and have the intention and ability to continuously be self-employed and to make a significant contribution in Canada.
This is an immigration pathway for self-employed professionals in art, culture and athletics fields. The purpose of this program is to attract foreign professionals who have relevant experience and have the intention and ability to continuously be self-employed and to make a significant contribution in Canada.


Eligibility is easy to meet

Eligibility
- Age: No age limit
- Self-Employed Experience: Achieved in the past 5 years
- At least 2 years of experience in cultural activities or athletics, or
- At least 2 years of experience in participation at a world-class level in cultural activities or athletics
- Intention and ability to be self-employed in Canada and to make a significant contribution to specific economic activities
- Education: No minimum requirement
- Language: Have basic skills in English or French
- Proof of funds: Have sufficient fund to support your business and family after you arrive in Canada
- Scoring: Obtain at least 35 out of 100 points in the Self-Employed Persons Program points system
Accompanying Family Members
- Your spouse or common-law partner, and
- Your dependent child under 22 years old
Application Process:






FAQ
1. Does the program have requirements for the applicant's place of residence?
No, it is a federal program and there are no restrictions on place of residence.
2. Is that all self-employed persons are eligible for this program?
No. It only applies to professional or technical occupations in art, culture, recreation and sport.
3. What does “world-class level” mean?
It identifies persons who are known internationally. It also identifies persons who may not be known internationally but performs at the highest levels in their discipline.
4. Do the 2 years of relevant experience need to be continuous?
It can be two 1-year periods of continuous experience.
5. How much do I need to invest in my business in Canada?
There is no minimum investment level for a self-employed person. The capital required depends on the nature of the work.