The Quebec immigration program is a prominent Canadian immigration initiative, uniquely designed to encourage immigrants to settle in this province. With independent regulations and criteria, Quebec establishes specific conditions to effectively support individuals seeking to work and live here. Join Phan Immigration to dive into Quebec’s immigration programs, which are tailored to preserve the French-Canadian language and culture.
Brief Introduction to Quebec, Canada
Quebec is the only province in Canada where French is the predominant language. Notably, Quebec is recognized by the Canadian government as an autonomous region with a distinct cultural identity and political system, setting it apart from other provinces in the country.
Geography:
- Quebec is the largest province in Canada (excluding territories).
- Its main geographical features include the St. Lawrence Lowlands, the Canadian Shield, and the Appalachian Mountains.
- Prominent high peaks include Mont d’Iberville (1,652 m) and Mont Jacques-Cartier (1,268 m).
- Forests and lakes cover a significant portion of Quebec’s land area.
Population:
- According to Statistics Canada, Quebec’s population is approximately 9.1 million, accounting for 24% of Canada’s total population.
- Population density is 6 people per km².
Economy:
- Quebec’s GDP in 2024 reached CAD 452.1 billion, with a growth rate of 1.9% over the past 5 years as of 2024.
- Key contributing sectors include manufacturing, real estate, healthcare, and social assistance (accounting for 32.7% of GDP).
- The unemployment rate in Quebec, as of July 2024, was 6.3%.
Income and Cost of Living:
- Average annual after-tax income for couples: CAD 90,900.
- Average annual after-tax income for couples with children: CAD 115,100.
- Average annual after-tax income for individuals living alone: CAD 36,000.
- Free healthcare and low education costs.
Immigration Policy:
- Quebec has its own immigration policies, aiming to attract up to 500,000 immigrants annually.
- Programs such as the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP), Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), and programs for entrepreneurs and investors help attract immigrants and drive economic growth in the province.
Benefits of Settling in Quebec, Canada
Settling in Quebec, Canada, is an excellent decision for those seeking development opportunities in Canada. With standout advantages and an exceptional quality of life, Quebec has become a renowned destination for immigration:
- Flexible Immigration Policies: Quebec has its own immigration system with diverse programs, including skilled worker, study, and investment streams, offering various options tailored to individual applicants.
- Fast Processing Times: Immigration applications in Quebec are typically processed within 6 to 12 months, allowing immigrants to settle quickly.
- Diverse Job Opportunities: Quebec has a high demand for labor in fields such as information technology, agriculture, healthcare, and more.
- High Quality of Life: Residents enjoy numerous social benefits and reasonable living costs. Quebec offers a safe living environment and a modern healthcare system. Education is free for children from grades 1 to 12.
- Unique Cultural Identity: As the only province in Canada with French as the official language, Quebec provides a distinctive cultural environment for those who appreciate French language and culture.
- Family Settlement: Quebec’s immigration programs allow the entire family (including spouse and children) to obtain Permanent Residency (PR) together.
Seven Popular Immigration Programs in Quebec, Canada
Depending on your individual and family circumstances, you can consider the following popular Quebec immigration programs:
Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) Program
The Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) program is a critical step in the immigration process to Quebec, Canada. Applicants must obtain this mandatory certificate before applying for an immigration visa. The issuance of the CSQ is determined through a points-based system, evaluating criteria such as age, education level, work experience, French language skills, and more.
The immigration process to Quebec involves two main stages: provincial selection and federal approval. In the first stage, the Quebec government reviews and issues the CSQ to eligible applicants. In the second stage, your application must be approved by the Canadian federal government to complete the immigration process. Both stages must be completed to legally settle in Quebec.
Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) offers an excellent opportunity for temporary foreign workers and international students to become Canadian Permanent Residents. The PEQ requires applicants to have lived, studied, or worked in Quebec and possess French language skills at a minimum of CLB 5 (intermediate-advanced), contributing to the province’s economic development.
Eligibility Requirements for the PEQ:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have graduated from a full-time program at an eligible educational institution in Quebec within the 36 months prior to applying.
- Have lived in Quebec for at least half the duration of the study program.
- Meet the minimum French language requirement (CLB 5).
- Demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to live in Quebec.
- Have work experience in Quebec as a temporary foreign worker or international student.
Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) is an immigration program designed to attract skilled workers from around the world to work and live in Quebec. It is one of the most popular immigration programs due to its clear evaluation criteria and attractive settlement opportunities.
Eligibility Requirements for the QSWP:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Arrima portal for evaluation.
- Achieve a minimum CRS score of 67.
- Have experience in a qualifying occupation.
- Work experience must not be in the following ineligible sectors:
- Short-term loans, check cashing, or pawnshops.
- Production, distribution, or sale of pornographic products or services, or involvement in the sex industry, such as nude dancing, escort services, or erotic massage.
Quebec Investor Program (QIP)
The Quebec Investor Program (QIP) is designed for investors with strong financial capacity to contribute to Quebec’s economic development. The evaluation process is rigorous, selecting the most suitable candidates. Investors must prepare detailed financial documentation and a clear investment plan to increase their chances of success in the immigration process.
Eligibility Requirements for the Quebec Investor Program:
- Have a minimum net worth of CAD 2,000,000, legally accumulated.
- Commit to investing at least CAD 1,200,000 in a designated investment fund or financial institution in Quebec.
- Achieve a minimum French language proficiency of NCLC 7.
- Demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to support yourself and your family.
- Have completed at least high school education in Quebec or hold an equivalent foreign credential.
- Have at least 2 years of management experience within the 5 years prior to applying.
Quebec Self-Employed Worker Program
The Quebec Self-Employed Worker Program attracts individual entrepreneurs, contributing to the local economy by encouraging the establishment of new businesses. The evaluation process requires applicants to demonstrate stable financial capacity, solid management experience, and a feasible business plan for development in Quebec.
Eligibility Requirements for the Quebec Self-Employed Worker Program:
- Have a minimum net worth of CAD 100,000.
- Have at least 2 years of experience in the field the applicant intends to practice in Quebec.
- Achieve a minimum French language proficiency of NCLC 7.
- Have completed at least high school education in Quebec or hold an equivalent foreign credential.
- Make a deposit with a financial institution in Quebec, with the amount depending on the business type:
- Within the CMM area: CAD 50,000.
- Outside the CMM area: CAD 25,000.
- Demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to support yourself and your family for the first 3 months after receiving PR.
Quebec Entrepreneur Program
The Quebec Entrepreneur Program requires applicants to meet high standards in financial capacity, management experience, and a feasible business plan in Quebec. The program targets two groups:
- Entrepreneurs looking to start a business in Quebec.
- Investors intending to purchase an existing business in the province.
The evaluation process is stringent, aiming to select candidates with the potential to contribute to Quebec’s economic development.
Eligibility Requirements for the Quebec Entrepreneur Program:
- Demonstrate strong financial capacity to execute a business plan in Quebec.
- Have completed at least high school education in Quebec or hold an equivalent foreign credential.
- Achieve a minimum French language proficiency of NCLC 7.
- Show a clear intent to start or manage a business in Quebec.
Validated Job Offer
A Validated Job Offer is a significant and advantageous factor in the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSW). Applicants receive 8 points if the job is in Montreal and 10 points if it is in another region of Quebec. A validated job offer exempts applicants from registration quotas and accelerates the process of obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ).
The QSW prioritizes skilled workers who meet the province’s labor market needs. A validated job offer demonstrates the applicant’s ability to integrate into Quebec’s economy and aligns with the province’s goal of attracting talent.
Process for Participating in Quebec, Canada Immigration Programs
Stage 1: Obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ)
Obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) is the critical first step in the immigration process to Quebec, Canada. This stage includes the following steps:
- Step 1: Submit an Expression of Interest (Déclaration d’intérêt). Applicants must access the Arrima portal to complete an Expression of Interest, indicating their desire to settle in Quebec.
- Step 2: Receive an invitation to apply for selection. If you meet Quebec’s selection criteria, you will receive an invitation to apply, marking your eligibility to proceed with the evaluation process.
- Step 3: Submit a formal selection application. After receiving the invitation, you must submit a formal application along with supporting documents, including details of your education, work experience, language skills, and more.
- Step 4: Evaluation by the Quebec government. The Quebec government will evaluate your application based on the provided criteria and documents. If approved, you will receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), confirming your selection to settle in Quebec.
Stage 2: Apply for Permanent Residency with the Canadian Government
Applying for Permanent Residency with the Canadian government is the final step to complete the immigration process to Quebec, Canada. After receiving the CSQ, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Prepare your Permanent Residency application. After obtaining the CSQ, prepare the required forms and documents as per the guidelines of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Step 2: Submit your application online. Create an account on IRCC’s Permanent Residency Online Application Portal and submit your application along with related documents (online submission is mandatory as of September 23, 2022).
- Step 3: Pay the associated fees. Pay the required fees, including processing fees, biometrics fees (if applicable), and more.
- Step 4: Complete medical and security checks. You and accompanying family members must undergo medical examinations to meet Canada’s health requirements and provide police clearance certificates to confirm no criminal or security issues.
- Step 5: Await IRCC’s decision. IRCC will review your application. If approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residency and instructions for entering Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions About Immigrating to Quebec, Canada
What is the Arrima Portal?
Arrima is a free online platform launched in 2018 when the Quebec Immigration Act came into effect. It is designed to manage skilled worker applications for Quebec, similar to Canada’s Express Entry system. Individuals wishing to immigrate to Quebec can create a profile and apply for consideration under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP or RSWP). Eligible applicants are evaluated and ranked based on their scores compared to others in the pool, using the Expression of Interest (EOI) system, or “système de déclaration d’intérêt” in French.
Currently, the Arrima system serves the following groups:
- Individuals applying for permanent or temporary residency in Quebec.
- Employers seeking to hire workers.
- Immigration representatives.
Arrima is primarily used by the Quebec government to manage EOI submissions for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP). The platform is also expanding to include other economic immigration streams, such as the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), for temporary workers and international students.
Can a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) Be Extended into a Work Permit?
Yes, applicants can extend their Work Permit if they hold a valid one. If their Work Permit expires before receiving the CSQ, they will need an LMIA to extend their work authorization.
Which Occupations Are Prioritized for Immigration to Quebec, Canada?
Quebec currently prioritizes skilled worker applications in high-demand industries. The top 10 in-demand occupations in Quebec, Canada, are:
- Registered Healthcare Professionals (NOC 31301)
- Welders and Machine Operators (NOC 72106)
- Electricians (NOC 72200)
- Chefs (NOC 63200)
- F&B Supply Chain Workers in Restaurants and Hotels (NOC 65200)
- Business Managers – Sales and Advertising (NOC 10022)
- Programmers (NOC 21232)
- Accountants (NOC 11100)
- Administrative Assistants (NOC 13110)
- Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers (NOC 21321)
Is French Proficiency Mandatory for Immigrating to Quebec, Canada?
French proficiency is not mandatory for immigrating to Quebec. However, since French is the official language of Quebec, knowing French will open up more job opportunities, especially in the public sector and companies based in Quebec.
Choosing to settle in Quebec, Canada, offers long-term stability for your family and exceptional career development opportunities. If you have any questions about Quebec’s immigration programs, don’t hesitate to contact Phan Immigration at hotline 078 208 4466 for in-depth and comprehensive consultation.
