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Quebec’s Permanent Work Permits

Each year Quebec welcomes immigrant workers whose skill sets match current needs in the market. Unlike other Canadian Provinces which participate in the Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec does not have a specific Provincial Nominee Program. Instead, there are three unique programs for permanent workers in Quebec. These are: the Regular Skilled Worker Program, the Quebec Selection Certificate and the Self-Employed Worker Program. Currently, the permanent selection application process is based on expressed interest in living and working in Quebec. Recently, the Quebec government proposed changes to the PEQ program which would have made the program more selective. These changes were proposed in an attempt to attract skilled workers who would meet a specific market demand. However, backlash from students already in Quebec has led to the Quebec government introducing a grandfather clause which would help protect students already in Quebec.

Before you begin anything else, it is important to understand the job market, how your skills meet current needs and if the province is truly right for you. This research can be done using Quebec’s Getting Informed tool which provides important information about the feasibility of immigrating to Quebec. The second step in the process is to complete and submit an expression of interest to the immigration office. The third step is to determine which program for permanent workers you want to apply for. As each program is specifically designed to meet the needs of immigrants it is important that you apply for the best one for your personal circumstances.

What is a Quebec Selection Certificate (QSC)?

Immigration to Quebec is approved through two separate streams: selection (provincial level decision) and admission (federal level decision). Therefore, a potential applicant must pass both levels. The selection process is completed by an applicant obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate. This certificate states that you have been selected by Quebec’s government for immigration. Obtaining this certificate is necessary but does not guarantee that you will become a Canadian permanent resident.

Requirements:

Like Canadian Express Entry, selection for the Regular Skilled Worker Program is based on points awarded for specified factors and criteria. The number of points that you have will determine if you are eligible to be selected for the program. A detailed grid of the points system can be found on the Quebec immigration website.

The factors and criteria cover nine relevant topics:

1. Training: This factor considers your level of education and level of training complete.
2. Work Experience:Where have you worked and for how long.
3. Age: The most points are awarded for people immigrating between the ages of 18 and 35.
4. Knowledge of French and English: You will need to demonstrate the level of language ability you have in both English and French.
5. Time Spent in Quebec and Family Relationships: Have you spent time in Quebec and do you have an family relationships with Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
6. Job Offer: Do you have a permanent job offer with an organization recognized by the Quebec government.
7. Spouse:The same information that you have provided will need to be provided regarding your spouse.
8. Other Factors:These include things such as number of children under the age of 22 that would accompany you.
9. Financial Self-Sufficiency: You will need to sign contract that you are able to support yourself and your family’s needs for at least 3 months after you arrive in Quebec.