Business Persons and Self-Employed Persons

Securing accurate and reliable immigration advice from the onset is crucial to successfully establishing oneself legally in Canada. This is particularly important if you intend to open an office, migrate as a business owner, or initiate or acquire a business in the country. Ensuring a smooth beginning to your journey is vital.

The Federal Government of Canada actively encourages the establishment and acquisition of new businesses within the nation through various immigration options. Additionally, the majority of Canadian provinces have implemented their own Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which enable them to nominate businesspersons for immigration to Canada. These programs encompass a range of immigration categories tailored to investors, entrepreneurs, business owners, and self-employed persons.

Certain provinces offer particularly dynamic immigration programs designed to attract business investors. These specialized programs facilitate the entry of qualified individuals, bolstering economic growth and development within the provinces. By obtaining the appropriate immigration advice and support, you can confidently navigate these diverse options and select the one best suited to your unique circumstances and ambitions.

SELF-EMPLOYED ARTISTS & SPORTSPERSON:

The Federal Self-Employed Artist/Athlete Program is designed for self-employed artists and athletes who possess exceptional abilities and have the potential to make a significant contribution to Canada's cultural or athletic landscape. This program is part of Canada's economic immigration strategy, which aims to attract and retain skilled professionals to contribute to the country's economic growth and cultural enrichment.

This program is designed to accommodate a wide range of talented professionals, such as interior designers, singers, dancers, writers, directors, choreographers, fashion columnists, and textile designers, players, coachers, etc. This diverse group of skilled individuals can apply for permanent residency in Canada, paving the way for a bright future for themselves and their families. Alongside the primary applicant, their spouse and dependent children up to the age of 22 can also be included in the application, providing an opportunity for the entire family to embrace the benefits of Canadian residency and establish a new life in this vibrant and welcoming country. 

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for the Federal Self-Employed Artist/Athlete Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Self-Employment Experience: Candidates must have a minimum of two years of relevant self-employment experience as an artist or athlete within the five-year period before applying.
2. Net Worth: There is no minimum net worth requirement for this program. However, applicants must have sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their family members upon arrival in Canada.
3. Intention to Reside: Applicants must have the intention to reside in any province or territory in Canada, except for Quebec, which has its own immigration programs.
4. Relevant Experience: Candidates must have experience in cultural activities or athletics and intend to make a significant contribution to their respective fields in Canada.
5. Language Proficiency: While not mandatory, proficiency in English or French is highly recommended to enhance the applicant's ability to establish themselves in Canada.

Relevant experience, as defined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the Federal Self-Employed Artist/Athlete Program, refers to the professional experience that directly relates to the applicant's ability to contribute significantly to Canada's cultural or athletic landscape. This experience must be recent, within the five years preceding the application, and demonstrate the applicant's sustained engagement and accomplishments in their respective field.

For artists, relevant experience includes professional activities in the arts and cultural industry, such as visual arts, performing arts, filmmaking, writing, or other creative roles. For athletes, relevant experience pertains to participation in competitive sports, coaching, or other athletic pursuits at a high-performance level.

To assess the applicant's relevant experience, IRCC will consider various factors, including:

1. Period of self-employment: Applicants must have a minimum of two years of self-employment experience in their field within the five years preceding the application.
2. Nature and scope of work: The work performed by the applicant should be directly related to their artistic or athletic field and demonstrate a significant level of expertise, accomplishment, or recognition.
3. Contribution to the field: Applicants should be able to show that their work has had a positive impact on their industry, garnered recognition, or contributed to the cultural or athletic development in their home country or internationally.
4. Potential to contribute in Canada: Applicants must demonstrate their ability and intention to continue their work in their respective field within Canada and make a significant contribution to the country's cultural or athletic landscape.

Selection Criteria:

The Federal Self-Employed Artist/Athlete Program uses a points-based system to evaluate applicants. A total of 100 points are available, and candidates must score a minimum of 35 points to be eligible. The selection criteria include:

1. Education: A maximum of 25 points are awarded based on the applicant's level of education.
2. Experience: A maximum of 35 points are awarded for relevant self-employment experience as an artist or athlete.
3. Age: Up to 10 points are awarded based on the applicant's age at the time of application.
4. Language Proficiency: Up to 24 points are awarded for proficiency in English and/or French.
5. Adaptability: A maximum of 6 points are awarded for factors that demonstrate the applicant's ability to adapt to life in Canada, such as having a spouse or common-law partner with Canadian work or study experience.

Application Process:

The Federal Self-Employed Artist/Athlete Program application process involves several steps:

1. Preliminary Assessment: Contact Nadeem Law Office for an initial assessment of your eligibility. Our experienced immigration lawyers will review your qualifications and provide guidance on the best course of action.
2. Document Preparation: Gather all necessary documents, such as educational certificates, proof of work experience, language test results, and financial statements. Our team will help you obtain and organize these documents.
3. Application Submission: Our immigration lawyers will assist you in completing the application forms and submit them to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on your behalf.
4. Application Review: IRCC will review your application, and you may be asked to provide additional information or documents. Our team will help you address any questions or concerns raised by the immigration authorities.
5. Medical Examination and Security Checks: Applicants and their family members must undergo a medical examination and pass security checks to ensure they do not pose a threat to Canada's public health or safety.
6. Decision and Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR): If your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document. This document must be presented to Canadian immigration officials upon arrival in Canada.
7. Arrival and Settlement in Canada: Once you arrive in Canada, you will need to take steps to settle in your new home, such as finding housing, enrolling in healthcare, and securing employment. Our team at Nadeem Law Office can provide guidance and resources to help you successfully transition to life in Canada.

Benefits of the Federal Self-Employed Artist/Athlete Program:

The Federal Self-Employed Artist/Athlete Program offers several benefits to successful applicants, including:

1. Permanent Residence: Successful applicants and their family members receive permanent resident status in Canada, which allows them to live, work, and study anywhere in the country (except Quebec).
2. Pathway to Citizenship: Permanent residents can apply for Canadian citizenship after meeting residency requirements and other criteria.
3. Access to Social Benefits: Permanent residents have access to social benefits such as healthcare, education, and social security programs.
4. Opportunity to Contribute: Artists and athletes can contribute to Canada's cultural and athletic landscape, enriching the nation's diversity and promoting international collaboration.

Why Choose Nadeem Law Office?

At Nadeem Law Office, we are committed to providing exceptional service to our clients in Dubai and around the world. Our experienced team of Canadian immigration lawyers can guide you through every step of the Federal Self-Employed Artist/Athlete Program application process, ensuring that your application is accurate and complete.

Our services include:

1. Personalized Consultation: We take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our services to meet your needs.
2. Expert Guidance: Our immigration lawyers have extensive knowledge of Canada's immigration programs and can provide expert advice on the best pathway for you.
3. Document Preparation and Review: We help you gather and organize all necessary documents and review them to ensure accuracy and completeness.
4. Ongoing Support: Our team is here to support you throughout the application process and beyond, helping you navigate any challenges that arise.
5. Comprehensive Settlement Assistance: We offer resources and guidance to help you successfully settle in Canada, from finding housing and employment to enrolling in healthcare and education.

Begin your journey to Canada today by contacting Nadeem Law Office. Our dedicated team of immigration lawyers is ready to help make your dream of living and working in Canada a reality.

Self-Employed Clients from Doha, Qatar and Middle East:

The Federal Self-Employed Artist/Athlete Program is particularly advantageous for self-employed clients from the Middle East region, including many South Asian professionals who have established successful businesses in this dynamic and rapidly growing part of the world. Canada recognizes the wealth of talent and entrepreneurial spirit these individuals bring to the table and offers a unique opportunity for them to expand their horizons and contribute to the country's diverse cultural and athletic landscape. By leveraging their skills and experience, these self-employed professionals can continue to excel in their respective fields while benefiting from the many advantages of Canadian residency. In addition, Canada's inclusive and multicultural society provides a welcoming environment for individuals and families from the Middle East and South Asian regions, enabling them to transition seamlessly into their new lives and communities. 

At Nadeem Law Office, we place a special emphasis on assisting self-employed clients from the Middle East region, including the South Asian professionals who have established successful businesses there. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these individuals and are committed to providing tailored, expert guidance to help them navigate the Federal Self-Employed Artist/Athlete Program. Our experienced team of immigration lawyers is dedicated to serving the specific needs of this diverse clientele, ensuring a smooth and successful transition to life in Canada. By choosing Nadeem Law Office, clients from the Middle East and South Asian regions can trust that they are in capable hands, and that their aspirations of building a prosperous future in Canada will be fully supported. 

The Following Occupations Are Eligible To Apply Under The Self-Employed ategory: 

• Authors, writers (novelist,  copywriter, media writer, etc.)
• Artists, painters, sculptors, art teacher
• Journalists (investigative reporter, news commentator, fashion columnist, etc.)
• Producers, Directors & Editors (stage producer, film editor, radio producer etc.)
• Dancers (ballet dancers, dance instructors, etc.)
• Interior designers (home decorator, kitchen/office designer, etc.)
• Choreographers
• Film and Video Camera Operators
• Composers (songwriter, lyricist, musical director, etc.)
• Musicians & Singers
• Graphic Arts Technicians
• Graphic Designers and Illustrators
• Theatre, Fashion, Exhibit, and Other Creative Designers
• Photographers
• Announcers and Other Broadcasters
• Professional Occupations in Public Relations and Communications
• Translators, Terminologists, and Interpreters
• Patternmakers - Textile, Leather, and Fur Products
• Athletes (boxer, football player, sprinter, etc.)
• Coaches
• Referees 

To book a consultation please email: info@nadeemlaw.com.