PNP Programmes
Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) is an immigration pathway designed for skilled professionals who wish to settle in Quebec as permanent residents. Unlike other provincial nominee programs, Quebec has its own selection criteria and operates independently from the federal Express Entry system. The program is managed by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI).
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program, applicants must meet specific criteria based on the Quebec Selection Grid. The key factors considered include:
1. Education
- Applicants must have completed at least secondary-level education.
- Additional points are awarded for higher education levels such as diplomas, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees.
2. Work Experience
- A minimum of one year of full-time work experience in the last five years in a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3).
- Work experience can be obtained within or outside Canada.
3. Language Proficiency
- French language proficiency is a major factor in selection.
- Points are awarded based on listening, speaking, reading, and writing proficiency in French (TEF Canada or TCF exams are accepted).
- Additional points are given for English proficiency (IELTS, CELPIP, or TOEFL scores are accepted but are secondary to French).
4. Age
- Applicants between 18 and 42 years receive the highest points.
- Points decrease gradually after the age of 42.
5. Validated Job Offer
- Additional points are awarded if the applicant has a valid job offer from an employer in Quebec.
6. Family Situation
- Points are awarded if the applicant has a spouse or common-law partner with qualifications contributing to the application.
- Additional points for dependent children.
7. Financial Self-Sufficiency
- Applicants must prove that they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their family upon arrival in Quebec.
Application Process
Step 1: Expression of Interest (Arrima System)
- Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Arrima portal, Quebec’s online immigration system.
- Based on the selection criteria, the highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ).
Step 2: Receiving an Invitation to Apply
- Selected applicants receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for a CSQ.
- The CSQ is a certificate issued by the Quebec government confirming that the applicant has been selected for immigration
Step 3: Submitting the Full Application for CSQ
- Applicants submit supporting documents, including proof of education, work experience, language test results, and financial self-sufficiency.
- Once approved, a CSQ is issued.
Step 4: Applying for Permanent Residence
- After receiving a CSQ, applicants must apply for permanent residence through the federal government (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada – IRCC).
- The applicant must undergo medical and security checks before obtaining permanent residency.
Processing Time
- CSQ Processing: Generally, 6-12 months depending on the applicant’s profile and the number of applications received.
- Federal PR Processing: Once the CSQ is received, the federal processing time for permanent residence takes an additional 6-12 months.
Benefits of the Quebec Skilled Worker Program
- No job offer is required to apply.
- No requirement to be in the Express Entry pool.
- Direct pathway to Canadian permanent residence.
- Faster processing times compared to other immigration programs.
- Quebec offers strong economic and social support for newcomers, including French language training and employment assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
While French is not mandatory, it significantly increases the chances of selection. Candidates with strong French skills are prioritized.
- Improve your French language skills.
- Gain more work experience in a high-demand occupation.
- Obtain a job offer from a Quebec employer.
- Pursue additional higher education qualifications.
Yes, your spouse and dependent children can be included. Your spouse’s education, work experience, and language proficiency can contribute to the selection score.
Once you receive a CSQ, you must apply for permanent residence through IRCC and undergo medical and security checks before receiving your PR.
If you are already in Quebec, you may be eligible for a bridging open work permit while waiting for your PR approval.