If the program is paused, what are my realistic options as a self-employed applicant to Canada?

With federal self-employed intake closed, the practical path is to monitor IRCC for the new entrepreneur pilot expected to be announced, and to avoid relying on the old program for any near-term plan. Confirm the status directly on the official IRCC page rather than third-party sites.

Depending on your background, other routes may suit you better in the meantime, such as Express Entry programs for skilled workers or provincial nominee entrepreneur and business streams. A qualified assessment of your work history and goals can identify which currently open program is the best fit.