Quebec Immigration Programs

The province of Quebec operates a variety of immigration programs that allow eligible candidates to obtain Canadian permanent residence. Unlike other provinces, Quebec has significant autonomy over its immigration selection process, which is why its programs are managed separately from federal immigration streams.

Quebec is the only province in Canada with French as its sole official language. As a result, many Quebec immigration programs either require or strongly favor candidates with French language proficiency. However, pathways also exist for non-French speakers, depending on the program and applicant profile.

Quebec Selection System (CSQ)

Applicants selected by Quebec receive a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), which allows them to apply to the federal government for permanent residence. Quebec’s immigration process is therefore a two-step system: provincial selection followed by federal approval.

Main Quebec Immigration Programs

• Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSW)
• Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
• Quebec Investor Program
• Quebec Entrepreneur Program
• Quebec Self-Employed Program
• Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ)

Validated Job Offer in Quebec

A Quebec employer may extend a job offer to a foreign national that can be officially validated by Quebec immigration authorities. A validated job offer provides a significant advantage under the Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW) program.

• 8 points if the job is located in the Montréal region
• 10 points if the job is located outside the Montréal region

Candidates holding a validated job offer are exempt from the QSW application quota, allowing them to submit their CSQ application at any time.

Requirements for a Validated Job Offer

To obtain a validated job offer, both the employer and the foreign national must meet specific criteria set by Quebec immigration authorities.

• Job Position Requirements: The position must comply with Quebec labour market conditions and salary standards.
• Foreign National Requirements: The candidate must possess the qualifications, experience, and legal authorization required to perform the job.

Quebec immigration programs are particularly well suited for applicants with strong French language skills, relevant professional experience, and a genuine intention to settle and integrate into Quebec society.