If you are an athlete or a professional in the sports field such as referee, coach, event organizer or you're in another related occupation, then you have the opportunity to immigrate to Canada under the Federal Self-Employed Program.

This program is for people who have the skills and abilities that may contribute to professional or organizational athletics in Canada by becoming self-employed.

This program is designed to attract people who are talented athletes, have the intention to stay self-employed in Canada and would like to obtain permanent residence.

Who Qualifies for the Self-Employed Program?

You must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the self-employed program:

• Have suitable experience in your athletic-related profession
• Have the intention of becoming self-employed in Canada
• Meet the set selection criteria
• Meet the required medical, security, and other conditions
• Have enough funds to support your stay in Canada

As an athlete or sports professional, you must have a minimum of 2 years of experience. This experience must be gained between 5 years before the application is submitted and the day the decision on your application is made.

Your experience will be relevant if it fulfills the following criteria:

• You have been self-employed in athletics or World Class Athletes and Cultural Performers for two 1-year periods.
• You have taken part in a world-class athletics event
• You have a combination of experience in the above mentioned activities for a period of 1 year each

What is Required to be Eligible for the Self-Employed Program?

If you applying for the self-employed program, then you must meet the following criteria:

• Have all relevant requirements for a self-employed applicant, for example, required experience, proof of intention and ability, etc
• Must score at least 35 points out of 100 points distributed among these 5 areas:


• Education: 25 points
• Work experience: 35 points
• Age: 10 points
• English or French proficiency: 24 points
• Adaptability: 6 points


• Clear the admissibility requirements to enter Canada. Here's a list of reasons for inadmissibility

Is a Work Permit Required to Immigrate to Canada Under the Self-Employed Program?

If you intend to visit Canada as a member of an international team or as a foreign athlete representing your country, then you are exempt from the requirement of applying for a work permit. A visitor visa will be sufficient to visit.

This exception also applies to any international teams or an athlete’s support staff.

If you intend to immigrate to Canada to join a Canadian team or represent Canada as an athlete, then you are required to apply for a work permit.

However, you will be exempt from the requirements of acquiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) which makes the process of acquiring a work permit much easier.

Do professional athletes need work permits?

If they are from a foreign team or representing a foreign nation, then they do not need a work permit. However, if hired by a Canadian employer, then they require a work permit.

If I am participating in a sporting event in Canada, then do I need a work permit?

If you are representing a foreign country, then you do not need to acquire a work permit to participate in the sporting event under the International Mobility Program.

Why Start with Spring Wave Immigration with a Free Online Assessment?

Congratulations on taking your first step towards Permanent Residency in Canada!

Spring Wave Immigration lawyers dedicate themselves to your immigration case

Our expertise focuses on immigration and visa programs for Canada and the United States

Partnering with an award-winning immigration team greatly increases the likelihood of achieving your specific immigration or visa goals.

Immigration is a complex process that requires strong legal strategy

Begin Your Application for This PR Program Today!

Securing personalized legal help is quick and simple. Begin with our one-minute online immigration assessment form or call us toll-free at +1 (647) 568-8506

We have a dedicated team of licensed professionals standing by, ready to answer your immigration and visa questions. We've been helping people from over 120 countries for over a decade and can help you too.

Book a personal consultation to speak with an award-winning immigration lawyer either in person, over the telephone, or through a video conference.