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Amer Rehman, RCIC #R515343 | Member, CICC

Self-Employed Persons Program

The federal Self-Employed Persons Program is not accepting applications. This page sets out what IRCC announced and where to look instead.

Program status is subject to change. Verify current intake status on the IRCC website before applying.

Program Status: Paused Until Further Notice

"We will also extend the current pause on accepting applications to the Self-Employed Persons Program until further notice" (IRCC notice, December 19, 2025). For alternatives, see provincial nominee programs and Express Entry.

What IRCC Announced

In its notice of December 19, 2025, IRCC stated: "We will also extend the current pause on accepting applications to the Self-Employed Persons Program until further notice." IRCC has not given a date for accepting applications again.

Source: IRCC notice on immigration measures for entrepreneurs (December 19, 2025).

Alternative Pathways to Consider

Quebec Business Programs

Quebec's business immigration programs are set by the Ministère de l'Immigration du Québec (MIFI), not IRCC. Verify current intake directly with MIFI.

Express Entry

If you have skilled work experience, review the Express Entry programs.

Provincial Business and Entrepreneur Streams

Our province pages cover business and entrepreneur streams in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.

Program at a Glance

  • Status:Paused until further notice
  • Quebec programs:Verify with MIFI

Assess Your Alternatives

If the Self-Employed Program was your intended pathway, a consultation can identify which alternative fits your profile.

Book Consultation

Last reviewed by Amer Rehman, RCIC (R515343): October 13, 2026.

Find the Right Pathway

With the Self-Employed Program paused, we can assess your eligibility for provincial entrepreneur programs, Express Entry or other alternatives.

Book Consultation

Amer Rehman, RCIC #R515343 | Member, CICC

Information provided is general in nature and current as of the page's last update. Immigration laws, processing times, eligibility criteria, and program requirements are subject to change per IRCC policy updates. This page does not constitute legal advice. Specific cases require individual consultation with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant. Amer Rehman is an RCIC (R515343), member in good standing with CICC.