Skip to main contentSkip to content
XIPHIAS Immigration
Federal Self-Employed Persons Program
At a glance

Quick facts

Minimum investment CA$0; Typical timeline 24 months; 3 highlights

Minimum investment
CA$0
Currency: CAD
Typical timeline
From application start
Highlights
  • Canada
  • Self-Employed Immigration
  • Residency by Talent
Program

Program specifics

Route type
Talent Based Residency
Eligible residency pathway
Last updated
Subject to regulatory change

Information is indicative and may change; confirm current terms with an advisor.

~10 sec

Quick eligibility check

Answer 2 short questions. No data is sent to our servers.

0/2 answered
0 yes 0 no0%
1Question 1 of 2 — Do you have at least 2 years of experience in cultural or athletic professions?
2Question 2 of 2 — Do you plan to continue your self-employment in Canada?

Select answers above to get an instant indication and tailored next steps.

We respect your privacy — answers stay in your browser.

Contact us

Program overview

The Federal Self-Employed Persons Program enables experienced professionals in cultural, artistic, or athletic fields to obtain Canadian Permanent Residency by contributing to the country’s cultural or athletic development. It’s an ideal route for individuals who can demonstrate self-employment experience and intend to continue their profession in Canada.

Investment overview

This program does not require a monetary investment. Instead, eligibility is based on professional achievements, recognition, and intent to be self-employed. Applicants must demonstrate financial capacity to settle and support their families.

Costs & proof of funds

Costs & funds

Program fees & proof of funds

Fees listed: 3 line items. Estimated totals: CA$2,340 (CAD). Proof of funds items: 1.

Estimated program totals
CAD: CA$2,340
Required proof of funds
CAD: CA$15,000

Detailed fee table

Program fee breakdown with price, timing and notes.
ItemPriceWhenNotes
Government Processing Fee (Approx.)CA$1,625—

For main applicant, payable to IRCC

Right of Permanent Residence FeeCA$515—

Payable upon approval

Medical & Biometrics FeeCA$200—

Estimated per applicant

Swipe horizontally to see all columns.

We’ll share a personalized cost sheet after your pre-screen.
Estimates only — final costs may vary by case & government updates.

Proof of funds

  • Settlement FundsCA$15,000

    Required to demonstrate ability to support self and family

Required (CAD): CA$15,000

Figures are indicative and may change with family size, project selection and program updates.

Official

Government fees

Total (CAD): CA$2,140
  • IRCC Processing Fee

    —

    CA$1,625
  • Right of Permanent Residence Fee

    —

    CA$515

Eligibility

  • Minimum 2 years of experience in cultural, athletic, or farm management sectors.
  • Proven intent and ability to be self-employed in Canada.
  • Score at least 35 points on the IRCC selection grid.
  • Meet medical, security, and language (English/French) standards.
  • Show proof of settlement funds for you and your family.

Key benefits

  • Direct PR pathway for self-employed professionals in cultural, athletic, or artistic fields.
  • No investment or net worth requirement.
  • Include spouse and dependents in your PR application.
  • Operate independently or collaborate with Canadian organizations.
  • Federal program — no need for provincial nomination.
Checklist

Document checklist

8 total items

Documents vary by profile and family composition; we'll tailor your final list.

Identity Documents
2 items
  • Passport and national ID copies for all family members
  • Birth and marriage certificates

Must be translated if not in English or French.

Professional Experience
2 items
  • Portfolio or evidence of professional work
  • Letters of reference from employers, institutions, or event organizers

Demonstrate self-employment or world-class participation.

Financial Documents
2 items
  • Proof of settlement funds (bank statements, savings)
  • Tax records or income proof

Sufficient to support family post-arrival.

Compliance & Medical
2 items
  • Police clearance certificates
  • Medical examination reports

Must meet IRCC health and character standards.

Snapshot

Eligible dependents

3 of 4 categories included

3 of 4 categories eligible. Children up to 22. Parents from 0+ years. Spouse included. Siblings not included.

IncludedNot included
Spouse
Included
Yes
Children
Up to 22 years22
Yes
Parents
From 0+ years0+
Yes
Siblings
Not included
No

Application process

Process

How it works

  1. Step 1: Check Eligibility

    Confirm your experience and intent to work as a self-employed professional in Canada.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks

  2. Step 2: Prepare Documentation

    Collect proof of achievements, finances, and self-employment plans.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks

  3. Step 3: Submit Application to IRCC

    Apply under the Federal Self-Employed Persons Program with complete documents.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks

  4. Step 4: Complete Biometrics & Medicals

    Provide fingerprints and medical exams as part of background checks.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks

  5. Step 5: Receive PR Approval

    Once approved, you and your family obtain Canadian Permanent Residency.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
Disclosure

Risk & compliance

Please read carefully. These notes are informational and do not constitute legal or financial advice.

Risk notes

2 items
  • Applications may be refused if contribution to Canada’s culture or athletics is unclear.
  • Processing times vary by case and IRCC workload.

Program rules change periodically. Always consult the official source and independent counsel.

Cost estimator

Calculator

Cost estimator

Indicative estimate. Excludes exchange/transfer charges and third-party legal costs. Official fees may change without notice.

Choose a base option

Family size

Adults (incl. principal)
Children (<18)

Government & due-diligence fees

  • CA$200
    1 × CA$200 = CA$200
  • CA$515
    1 × CA$515 = CA$515

Summary

Self-Employed Program Application
fixed • Qty 1
CA$1,625
CA$1,625
Biometrics & Medicals
fixed • Qty 1
CA$200
CA$200
Right of Permanent Residence Fee
fixed • Qty 1
CA$515
CA$515
Estimated total
CA$2,340

Who this program is NOT for

  • Lack of relevant or verifiable experience.
  • Failure to prove intent for self-employment in Canada.
  • Low selection score below 35 points.
  • Criminal record or failed background checks.

Not a match? Explore other programs in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Artists, athletes, and cultural professionals with relevant experience who intend to be self-employed in Canada.

No, the program is based on talent and experience, not capital investment.

Yes, your spouse and dependents can be included for permanent residency.

Typically 18–24 months, depending on IRCC timelines.

Yes, as a federal program, it allows settlement in any province or territory.
Explore

Other programs in Canada