Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers

Overview

Quebec's Unique Immigration System

Under the 1991 Canada-Quebec Accord relating to Immigration and Temporary Admission of Aliens, Quebec has the authority to select its own economic immigrants. This constitutional arrangement gives the province significant autonomy in shaping immigration to meet its unique demographic, linguistic, and economic needs.

The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP), now managed through Quebec's Regular Skilled Worker Program, is designed for skilled professionals who intend to live and work in Quebec. Unlike the federal Express Entry system, Quebec uses its own points grid and selection criteria, with an emphasis on French language proficiency and integration into Quebec's distinct society.

Selection is a two-stage process: first, candidates are selected by the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) and receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ). Second, the candidate applies to the federal government for permanent residence, which focuses primarily on medical and security admissibility.

At Grandview Immigration, we help skilled workers navigate Quebec's unique immigration framework, including the points assessment, the Arrima portal, and the permanent residence application process.

Process

How It Works

The Quebec skilled worker selection process has evolved over time and now operates primarily through the Arrima online portal. Understanding the process is essential for a successful application.

The current process generally involves these steps:

1. Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)

   Create a profile through the Arrima portal, providing information about your education, work experience, language skills, and other factors.

2. Receive an Invitation

   MIFI reviews profiles in the EOI pool and issues invitations to submit a selection application based on a points system and labuor market needs.

3. Submit Selection Application

   If invited, submit a detailed application for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) with all supporting documents.

4. Receive CSQ

   Upon approval by MIFI, receive the CSQ confirming Quebec's selection.

5. Apply for Permanent Residence

   Submit the federal permanent residence application to IRCC with the CSQ. IRCC will assess medical and security admissibility.

Processing times vary at both the provincial and federal levels. A complete and well-prepared application is critical to avoiding delays in this two-stage process.

Factors

Key Factors in the Selection Grid

Quebec's selection grid evaluates candidates on a variety of factors. Understanding how points are awarded helps you identify your strengths and areas for improvement.

Key factors in the Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program selection grid include:

• Education: Points are awarded based on your highest level of education and the field of training. Quebec maintains a list of areas of training that are prioritized based on labour market needs.
• Work Experience: Points are awarded for length and type of skilled work experience.
• Age: Younger applicants receive more points, with the maximum points awarded to those aged 18-35.
• Language Proficiency: Significant emphasis is placed on French language proficiency. Both French and English are assessed, but French carries more weight. Proficiency is evaluated across speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
• Connection to Quebec: Points are awarded for prior stays in Quebec, family connections, and validated job offers from Quebec employers.
• Accompanying Spouse or Partner: A spouse's or partner's education, training, work experience, and language skills can add points.
• Financial Self-Sufficiency: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their family upon arrival.

Our team can assess your profile against Quebec's selection criteria and identify strategies to improve your points score and overall competitiveness.