Self-Employed Persons Class
Statutory definition
IRPR s 100 defines the self-employed persons class as persons who have relevant experience in: cultural activities (arts, music, sport); athletics; or farm management. They must have the intention and ability to become self-employed in Canada in one of those fields and be expected to contribute to the cultural, artistic, athletic, or economic life of Canada. IRPR s 101 sets out the selection criteria including a points test and an ability to be self-sufficient assessment.
Explanation
The Self-Employed Persons Class is a niche program for high-level cultural workers, athletes, and farm managers who have an established track record at the international or national level. The selection criteria include points for experience (cultural or athletic participation for 2 years in the last 5), age, language, education, and adaptability. Processing times are lengthy. This program is not designed for general self-employment — a person who simply wishes to run a business in Canada does not qualify.