Frequently asked questions:
Investors, entrepreneurs and self‑employed persons

Self-employed persons

What is meant by a “significant contribution”?

There is no formal definition of what constitutes a significant contribution. This gives visa officers the ability to use their judgment and allow them to recognize that a contribution to athletics or the arts, even at less than a national standard, may still be of significant benefit at the local level. For example, a music teacher with reasonable qualifications will be in a better position to make a significant contribution in a small town than in a large city.

Please note that you must contribute to economic activities in Canada. While this does not preclude some activities outside of Canada, your experience must include a significant contribution within Canada.