How to Immigrate to Canada as a Self-Employed

How to Immigrate to Canada as a Self-Employed

Are you a self-employed individual considering immigrating to Canada? While it may seem like a daunting task, with the right information and approach, it is definitely achievable. As a self-employed person, finding a job offer or employment can be a challenge, and this could affect the evaluation of your application. 

In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of immigrating to Canada as a self-employed person, and provide some useful suggestions to help you navigate the process successfully. So, if you are interested in realizing your dream of immigrating to Canada, keep reading to discover some valuable tips on how to make it happen.

Top Reads: Step by Step Guide to Study in Canada as an International Student 

How to Immigrate to Canada as a Self-Employed?

Let’s have a closer look at how immigration to Canada works for self-employed candidates.

Step 1: Get Help from an RCIC (optional)

Suppose you are planning to immigrate to Canada as a self-employed person. In that case, one of the most important steps you can take is to seek the help of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). These professionals are knowledgeable about the immigration process and can help you navigate the complexities involved in immigrating to Canada.

One of the primary benefits of working with an RCIC is that they can help you optimize your skills, qualifications, and experiences to ensure that you have the best possible chance of success in your immigration application. They can also provide you with guidance on the best immigration plan for your specific case, and help you to maximize your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

When it comes to choosing an RCIC to work with, it is important to do your research and select a consultant who has a proven track record of success. Look for customer testimonials and other vetting methods to ensure that you are working with a reputable and reliable consultant.

Top Reads: Easiest Way To Travel To Australia From Nigeria

Step 2: Choose a Program

Once you have decided to immigrate to Canada as a self-employed person and have sought the help of an RCIC, the next step is to choose the right program to apply through. One of the options available to you is the Self-Employed Persons Program.

The Self-Employed Persons Program is designed for individuals who have relevant experience in cultural activities, athletics, or farm management. In order to be eligible for this program, you must meet certain requirements, such as having at least two years of relevant experience in the field and demonstrating that you have the intention and ability to be self-employed in Canada.

It is important to note that the Self-Employed Persons Program is valid for any province across Canada, except Quebec. Quebec has its own, separate immigration processes and regulations. If you are interested in immigrating to Quebec as a self-employed person, you will need to explore other options.

When choosing a program, it is essential to consider your specific qualifications and experience to determine which option is the best fit for your needs. Your RCIC can provide guidance and advice on the different programs available and help you determine which one is the most appropriate for your particular situation.

By choosing the right program and ensuring that you meet all of the requirements, you can greatly increase your chances of a successful immigration application and start your new life as a self-employed individual in Canada.

Top Reads: Top 10 Canadian Scholarships For Nigerian Students

Step 3: Go through the Eligibility Requirements

Once you have chosen the program you want to apply through, the next step is to ensure that you meet all of the eligibility requirements. For the Self-Employed Persons Program, the criteria are not overly complicated, but it is essential that you meet them perfectly to have a successful application.

In order to qualify for the program, you must have at least two years of relevant work experience and demonstrate that you intend to become self-employed while residing in Canada. You will also need to score at least 35 out of 100 on the federal government’s selection grid, which is used to determine whether the candidate has the necessary qualifications to contribute towards Canada’s economic growth.

The selection grid consists of five criteria: education, experience, age, proficiency in English or French, and adaptability. The maximum number of points that can be achieved in each category varies, with education being worth the most at 25 points and adaptability being worth the least at 6 points.

It is also important to note that in addition to meeting the eligibility requirements for the Self-Employed Persons Program, you must also meet the basic immigration conditions such as passing medical, security, and background checks. For example, anyone with a criminal record for a dangerous offense will not be granted admission into the country, even if they meet all of the other requirements.

Going through the eligibility requirements and ensuring that you meet all of the necessary criteria is crucial for a successful immigration application. Your RCIC can help you understand the requirements and guide you through the process to increase your chances of success. By carefully reviewing the eligibility criteria and addressing any potential issues, you can put yourself in the best position to achieve your goal of immigrating to Canada as a self-employed person.

Top Reads: 17 Top Canadian Universities That Don’t Require IELTS

Step 4: Apply

The next step in immigrating to Canada as a self-employed person is to apply for the program you have chosen. The application process requires you to download the application package online and complete all the required documents.

In most cases, you will also need to submit supporting documents such as language tests and certificates. It is important to carefully review everything multiple times to ensure that your application is complete and filled in correctly. The smallest mistake can result in long delays, a refusal of your application, or even being found inadmissible or banned completely for a period of five years.

It is important to note that the application process can be time-consuming and complex. That’s why it is essential to work with an experienced RCIC consultant who can guide you through the process, review your application, and ensure that it is complete and accurate.

Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the Canadian immigration authorities, who will make a decision based on the information you provided. The process can take several months, and it is important to be patient during this time.

Top Reads: What To Expect During A Green Card Interview

Step 5: Pay your Fees

Once you have completed your application for the self-employed immigration program in Canada, you will be required to pay several fees before submitting it. These fees are necessary to cover the costs of processing your application and ensuring that you meet all the eligibility requirements.

The fees you will need to pay include processing fees, the Right of Permanent Residence Fee, biometrics fees, and any relevant third-party fees. The processing fees are charged by the Canadian government to cover the cost of reviewing and processing your application. The Right of Permanent Residence Fee is a one-time fee that confirms your status as a permanent resident in Canada.

Biometrics fees are charged to cover the cost of taking your fingerprints and photograph, which are required for security and identification purposes. Finally, third-party fees may be charged for additional services such as language testing or educational credential assessments.

It is important to note that these fees can be substantial, and you should budget accordingly when planning your move to Canada. In some cases, the fees may be waived or reduced based on your circumstances. For example, some applicants may be eligible for fee waivers if they are refugees or have low incomes.

Top Reads: Study and Work Opportunities in New Zealand for International Students

Step 6: Submit your Application 

After completing your application package, paying your fees, and double-checking that everything is in order, the next step is to submit your application. You will need to mail your application package to the address provided in the instruction guide. 

It is important to ensure that you have included all the required documents and that they are completed correctly. Any missing information or errors could result in delays or even the rejection of your application. That is why it is a good idea to make copies of your entire application package for your own records. This will help you keep track of what you have submitted and also be useful if you need to make any changes or updates to your application later.

Once your application has been submitted, you will need to wait for the Canadian immigration authorities to process it. This can take several months or longer, depending on a variety of factors such as the volume of applications being processed and the complexity of your case. During this time, it is important to stay patient and wait for the authorities to contact you with updates or requests for additional information if needed.

Top Reads: 200+ Green Card Interview Questions 2023

Step 7: Go for Your Biometrics

Biometrics are a crucial part of the immigration process. They are taken to confirm your identity and ensure that you are not a security risk. Biometrics are basically your fingerprints and a photograph.

After submitting your application, you will receive a letter explaining how to give your biometrics and where you need to go. This has to be done in person. You will be given 30 days from when you receive the letter to submit your biometrics.

It is important to make sure that you follow the instructions given to you and provide your biometrics within the given time frame. Failure to do so may result in your application being delayed or even refused.

It is important to note that biometrics are mandatory for all applicants, including children and seniors, and you will have to pay the biometrics fee. The fee is currently CAD $85 per person, and a family applying together will not have to pay more than CAD $170.

Once your biometrics have been collected, they will be valid for 10 years. If you have given your biometrics in the past for a previous immigration application, you may not have to give them again, but you will still need to check the requirements for your specific case.

Top Reads: Easiest Way To Travel To Australia From Nigeria

Step 8: Wait: Your Application is being Evaluated

Once you have submitted your application and completed your biometrics, the waiting game begins. The processing time for a self-employed immigration application to Canada is approximately 34 months. During this time, your application will go through a review phase where immigration officials will evaluate your eligibility and assess your ability to contribute to Canada’s economy.

It is important to be patient during this time as the process can be lengthy. However, you can check the status of your application online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website using your unique application number. 

Once a decision has been made, you will be notified via letter. If your application is approved, you will be asked to send your passport to the visa office so your permanent resident visa can be issued. 

In the meantime, it is important to keep your contact information up to date so that you can be reached if any additional information is required from you.

Top Reads: 12 Hotcake Sites To Find Jobs In Canada For 2023

Step 9: Arrive in Canada

Once you have received approval and your permanent resident visa, you are ready to arrive in Canada and complete your landing process. When you arrive at the airport, you will meet with a Canada Border Services Agent who will review your paperwork and determine whether you are allowed to enter Canada or not. As long as everything is in order, you will be allowed to enter.

It is important to note that once you arrive in Canada, you will need to meet the residency obligations to maintain your permanent residency status. This means that you will need to be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within a five-year period. 

Other Immigration Paths for Self-Employed 

In addition to the Self-Employed Persons Program, there are other pathways for self-employed individuals who are interested in immigrating to Canada, such as the Start-Up Visa, Business Visa, Investor Visa, or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). 

Each province’s PNP offers at least one Entrepreneur stream based on their labour market needs. For example, in Alberta, farmers can apply under the Self-Employed Farmer Stream. The application process for these programs will be similar to the one described above, but some programs may yield quicker results. It’s important to research and choose the program that best suits your needs and qualifications.

Top Reads: How to get permanent residency in the US

Where to Find Help with Immigration?

As mentioned earlier, the process of immigrating to Canada as a self-employed person can be complicated and time-consuming. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) who is an expert in all things immigration and can provide valuable guidance based on your circumstances and goals. An RCIC can help you navigate the various pathways available for self-employed immigrants and ensure that your application is complete and filled out correctly. With the help of an RCIC, you can come to Canada within a shorter timeframe and in the most efficient manner possible. If you are a freelancer and have always dreamed of moving to Canada, now is the time to act and seek the guidance of an RCIC.

Conclusion 

Immigrating to Canada as a self-employed person is not overly complicated but can be time-consuming. The process involves checking the eligibility criteria, completing the application package, paying the required fees, submitting the application, giving biometrics, waiting for the application to be evaluated, and finally, arriving in Canada. However, the process can be made more efficient by seeking the assistance of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), who can provide expert guidance on the best pathway to follow based on individual circumstances and goals. Additionally, other immigration programs such as the Start-Up Visa, Business Visa, Investor Visa, or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) may be more suitable and yield quicker results. Overall, with careful planning and the right guidance, the dream of moving to Canada as a self-employed person can become a reality.