When it comes to proving work experience for Canadian immigration, many people assume that only traditional employment where you’re an employee working for an employer counts. However, that’s not always the case. We’ve had several clients who successfully used self-employment work experience to secure Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada. Mr. Rahim’s journey is one of those stories, and it’s a testament to the power of perseverance.
A Rocky Start: Visa Refusal and Judicial Review
Mr. Rahim, a 39-year-old fashion designer from Nigeria, initially sought to come to Canada for further education. We secured his admission into a master’s program in New Brunswick and prepared a strong application for his study permit. Despite this, the application was refused. This was a significant setback, but Mr. Rahim wasn’t ready to give up.
Upon reviewing the GCMS (Global Case Management System) notes, we discovered that the refusal was likely due to the application not being properly reviewed. We knew we had a strong case, so we worked with our legal team a nd the submotted a request judicial review.
When the case reached federal court, it was settled out of court—an acknowledgment that the application should not have been refused in the first place. This application went back to the officer for redetermination. Additional documents were requested and Mr. Rahim’s study permit was finally approved, and he made his way to Canada.
Applying for Permanent Residency with self-employment work experience from your home country
Once in Canada, Mr. Rahim completed his studies and then, like many graduates, applied for his Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). During this time, he also got married. With the completion of his studies, an active express entry profile and living in New Brunswick he became eligible for the New Brunswick Student Connect Stream.
He successfully applied for his nomination using his self-employment work experience from his home country and was nominated. This nomination boosted his express entry points by 600. This led to the receipt of an Express Entry - Invitation To Apply (ITA).
Many applicants worry that self-employment won’t be recognized for immigration purposes, but his case proves otherwise. His fashion design business in Nigeria was well-documented, with all the necessary elements: a registered business, tax payments, a regular salary, and detailed records of his clients and projects.
What Worked for Mr. Rahim:
Legitimate Business: His business was fully registered and compliant with Nigerian laws.
Tax Records: He consistently paid taxes, demonstrating a steady income stream.
Client Base: His business had a verifiable client base, showing that his work was both professional and in demand.
Salary and Documentation: Rahim paid himself a regular salary, with all transactions well-documented.
The Final Step: PR Application and Approval in 4 months
On January 31st, 2024, Mr. Rahim received his Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Permanent Residency. We carefully packaged the documents for his application and on March 29th, 2024 we submitted his PR Application.
However, a few months later, we received a request for additional documentation (ADR) on July 30th, 2024. This included proof of funds and a comprehensive Schedule A form (Schedule A: Background/Declaration -IMM 5669 - is a document required by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) during certain immigration processes, including Permanent Residency applications. This form collects detailed personal history information about the applicant and, in some cases, their family members)
Our team promptly submitted the requested documents, reinforcing the strength of his application. After four months of diligent preparation and anticipation, Mr. Rahim’s PR application was officially approved on August 7th, 2024!
From Consultation to PR: What We Can Do for You
Many people give up on their Canadian immigration goals after refusing, but Mr. Rahim’s journey from a student to a permanent resident proves persistence pays off. If you have a similar background in fashion design or any other self-employed profession, don’t hesitate to explore your options.
Schedule a session: Immigration rules can be complex. While this information provides a general overview, it's essential to consult with an immigration professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. Contact us or schedule a consultation today to start your journey to Canada and contribute to the country's prosperous future.
Post-ITA Application Guidance: If you received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and need help finalizing your application, make sure that all information in your application is accurate and up-to-date! We are here to help you package your application efficiently and accurately. Contact us today to get started.
Yes, self-employment work experience from your home country can potentially qualify you for Permanent Residency, depending on the specific requirements of the immigration program. Ensure your experience is well-documented and aligns with the criteria. If you’re managing multiple tasks like applying for residency and working on your Linguistics Dissertation help to balance your responsibilities effectively.
About the caregiver route coming up by September, what will you/can do for me. I am a certified health and geriatric care assistant, certified by the university of Port Harcourt teaching Hospital and an auxiliary nurse from a private hospital. What can your team do for me please?