What is the Self-Employed Program (SEPP) Visa?

The Canada Self-Employed Program is a Permanent Residency pathway designed for individuals with relevant experience in cultural activities, arts, entertainment, or athletics who can make a significant contribution to Canada’s cultural or sporting sectors. Eligible applicants may include artists, musicians, actors, writers, filmmakers, athletes, coaches, and other self-employed professionals with proven achievements and international or national recognition in their field.


Who is Eligible?

1

Cultural professionals with relevant self-employed experience

2

Athletes and sports professionals with qualifying achievements

3

Individuals with experience in arts, entertainment, or athletics

4

Applicants able to contribute significantly to Canadian cultural or sports life

5

Individuals meeting Canadian immigration admissibility requirements

6

Applicants with valid passports and supporting documents

7

Professionals with sufficient financial support for settlement

8

Applicants intending permanent settlement in Canada

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Step-by-Step Application Process

1

Check Eligibility

Review eligibility requirements related to cultural or athletic self-employed experience.

2

Gather Professional Evidence

Collect proof of achievements, awards, contracts, portfolios, publications, or competition records.

3

Prepare Required Documents

Arrange passports, financial documents, identity documents, and supporting paperwork.

4

Complete PR Application

Fill out the Canada Self-Employed Program Permanent Residency application forms accurately.

5

Pay Application Fees

Submit immigration processing and biometrics fees online.

6

Submit Supporting Documents

Upload professional records, experience proof, and supporting documentation.

7

Medical and Background Checks

Applicants may need medical examinations, police clearances, and biometrics.

8

Receive PR Approval

Successful applicants receive Canadian Permanent Residency approval.

Required Documents

  • Valid passport

  • Proof of self-employed experience

  • Portfolio or professional achievement documents

  • Awards, certifications, or competition records

  • Financial proof and settlement funds

  • Educational and professional qualification documents

  • Passport-size photographs

  • Police clearance certificates

  • Medical examination reports

  • Tax or income records (if applicable)

  • PR application forms and supporting paperwork

  • Supporting identity and civil documents

Note : Additional documents may be requested based on profile assessment

Processing Time

Self-Employed Program

Canada Self-Employed Program applications may take approximately more then 10 Years depending on document assessment, background checks.

More Then 10 Years

Visa Application Fees

Applicant TypeFees
Principal Applicant
C$1050
Right of Permanent Residence Fee
C$490
spouse or common-law partner
C$1040
Dependent Child
C$150
Biometrics Fee
CAD 85

Note : Fees are subject to change as per government updates.



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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Canada Self-Employed Program?

It is a Permanent Residency pathway for cultural and sports professionals with relevant self-employed experience.

Who can apply under the Self-Employed Program?

Is work experience mandatory for this program?

Does this program grant Permanent Residency?

Is IELTS required for the Self-Employed Program?

Can family members be included in the application?

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