The province of Quebec retains a high level of autonomy and authority over its immigration programs and policies. For this reason, Quebec’s immigration programs are unique, offering a number of pathways not available in the other provinces.
Generally, those interested in applying for permanent residence in Quebec must first apply for and receive a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ). Once an applicant has a CSQ, they are eligible to submit an official application for permanent residence to the federal immigration authorities. Quebec offers two economic immigration programs for those interested in immigrating to the province:
- Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program (QRSW)
- Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
Other programs are also available for business people, this includes: Québec Entrepreneur Program, Québec Investor Program, and Québec Self-Employed Worker Program. Each of which has its own eligibility requirements and criteria.
Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program (QRSW)
This immigration program is operated by the province of Québec for candidates who have skilled work experience and will be able to make lasting contributions to Quebec’s economy as members of the workforce.
Arrima Online Portal
The Quebec Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Inclusion (MIFI) launched the Arrima online portal to manage applications to the Quebec Regular Skilled Worker (RSWP) program. Candidates who want to apply must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) form online, which contains information regarding the candidate’s language proficiency, work experience, field of training, and education.
MIFI will then select candidates from this pool of candidates to submit an application for a Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ). Upon receiving an invitation to apply (ITA), candidates will have limited time to submit their complete application.
Processing time for applications for a CSQ submitted through the Arrima portal is expected to be 6 months.
Selection Factors – Québec RSWP Points Grid
Applicants must meet the minimum required scores on the eligibility points grid below. Please note that points for education are awarded based on the applicant’s area of study. Applicants applying without a spouse or common-law partner must reach a minimum of 43 points on the employability factors and 50 points total. Applicants applying with a spouse or common-law partner must reach a minimum of 52 points on the employability factors and 59 points total.
Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
This program targets candidates with French-language proficiency who have educational experience or work experience in Quebec. It is one of Quebec’s priority immigration programs, meaning that applications are processed at a much faster rate than other programs, such as Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP).
Program Requirements
Applicants must meet the following general requirements for the program:
- Have the intention of settling in Québec;
- Have lived temporarily in Québec with the primary goal of working or studying and have respected the conditions of their stay;
- Demonstrate advanced intermediate knowledge of oral French; only the principal applicant needs to demonstrate French, accompanying spouse and children do not;
- Undertake to provide for their needs and, where applicable, those of their spouse or de facto spouse and dependent children included in their application for a certificat de sélection du Québec, for a minimum period of 3 months;
- Be at least 18 years old and hold a valid passport.
Bakouni 