Self-Employed Persons Program

The Self-employed Persons Program is one of Canada’s federal business programs and is part of economic immigration. Compared to provincial streams, it does not require sticking to and settlement in only one of the Canadian provinces. SEPP offers more freedom and flexibility in terms of location selection.

SEPP is a direct pathway to becoming a Canadian permanent resident and gaining citizenship after. On average, permanent resident visas under the Self-employed Persons Program are processed within two to three years. Family members (spouse, partner, dependent children) can immigrate together with a self-employed artist or athlete.

Self-employed Persons Program does not require any set amount of investment. Neither a business establishment nor any other activities are required before immigration. In other words, it is about a future project that a permanent resident visa applicant will execute in Canada in cultural activities or athletics and needs a PR visa. For this reason, it may seem the requirements are more relaxed and less onerous compared to other business immigration programs. This is true. However, this is also the reason why a well-conceived and realistic plan is super important to succeed. When assessed, along with an applicant’s past conduct, it should prove the likelihood that a permanent resident visa applicant will proceed with the project if their PR visa is granted.