The Quebec Self-Employed Worker Program allows qualified individuals with two years of experience of self-employed worker, the opportunity to obtain permanent residence so that they can effectively establish themselves as an independent tradesperson or and create their own job in Quebec.
The Quebec Self-Employed Worker Program is an immigration pathway that targets newcomers with experience creating their own jobs. Successful applicants are able to immigrate to Quebec where they will create their own job by practicing a profession or trade on their own account. As with all of Quebec’s immigration pathways, when in operation, this program allowed applicants to apply for a certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ – Québec selection certificate). Upon receiving a CSQ, an applicant becomes eligible to submit an official application for Canadian permanent residence.
Quebec Self Employment Program Requirements
| Factor | Minimum requirements |
|---|---|
| Education level | Secondary school general diploma |
| Professional experience as a self-employed worker | Have acquired a minimum of two years of experience in the profession or trade that they intend to practice after establishing themselves in Quebec. |
| Financial self-sufficiency | Submit a contract to prove financial self-sufficiency. |
| Deposit for startup | Register a start-up deposit of at least $50,000 at a local financial institution if based in the metropolitan area of Montreal. Candidates based outside of Montreal will be required to deposit at least $25,000. |
| Minimum net worth | Have legally acquired a minimum of CAD$100,000 in net worth, alone or with the help of their spouse or common-law partner in the event that the spouse or common-law partner is accompanying. |
Quebec Self-Employed Worker Points Assessment Grid
All Self-Employed Worker Program candidates must meet the passing score under the Quebec Economic Class selection grid for the Quebec Self-Employed Program. Candidates will be awarded up to 99 points (112 points if accompanied by a spouse or common-law partner) for factors that include education level, professional experience, language proficiency in French and English, stay and family in Quebec, age, financial self-sufficiency, amount of deposit, and financial resources.
Note: MIDI has announced that Quebec Self-Employed Worker has reached its target of 50 applications received between August 15th, 2018 and March 31st, 2019. This program will not accept any further applications during this period. Applicants who have taken an approved language test showing French-language proficiency at an advanced intermediate level are exempt from this intake threshold and may submit an application at any time.