After months of anticipation, Quebec has officially launched its new immigration pathway for skilled workers. On July 17, Quebec issued its first invitations under the Quebec skilled worker selection program, targeting individuals already living in Quebec, with a focus on those who speak French, have work experience or educational credentials from within the province, and who are employed in occupations that help address Quebec’s labour shortages. The Quebec skilled worker selection program aims to streamline the immigration process while ensuring that skilled workers can contribute to the province’s economy.
This milestone marks a significant shift in Quebec’s immigration strategy, replacing the previous Regular Skilled Worker Program with a more targeted approach designed to meet the province’s specific labor market needs while strengthening French-language requirements.
A Quick Background Review
On November 29th, 2024, the Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) was replaced by the Skilled Worker Selection Program (SWSP). However, the program remained inactive until recently, with Quebec’s Minister of Immigration, Francization and Integration, Jean-François Roberge, announcing on June 5, 2025, that invitations would gradually start as of July 2025.
The new program represents a fundamental shift in Quebec’s immigration approach. The PSTQ has stricter French language requirements, whereas the previous PRTQ did not require applicants to speak French. This change reflects Quebec’s commitment to preserving its French-speaking character while addressing critical labor shortages.
First Invitation Round: By the Numbers
Understanding the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program
The inaugural invitation round on July 17, 2025, was carefully targeted and selective:
In the context of the new Quebec skilled worker selection program, prospective immigrants should be aware of the unique requirements and advantages of applying through this pathway.
Stream 1: Highly Qualified and Specialized Skills
The Minister of Immigration, Francization and Integration invited 216 people to apply for permanent selection under this stream of the PSTQ.
Key Requirements for Stream 1 Invitees:
- Minimum score of 768 points
- Current Quebec residency
- Quebec educational credentials (university, college, or secondary vocational level)
- FEER category 0, 1, or 2 occupation
- At least 12 months of work experience in the last five years
- French proficiency: Level 7 or higher (oral), Level 5 or higher (written)
- Spouse French requirement: Level 4 or higher in oral competencies
Stream 4: Exceptional Talent
On July 17, the Minister of Immigration, Francization and Integration invited 22 people to apply for permanent selection.
Requirements for Stream 4:
- Post-graduate diploma (doctorate) required
- Positive opinion from a Ministry partner in a targeted field, OR
- Achievement listed in the Ministry’s List of Exceptional Accomplishments
- Work experience in primary occupation for at least three out of the last five years
Total Invitations Issued
Quebec invited 238 candidates under the Skilled Worker Selection Program, including highly skilled professionals and individuals with exceptional talent.
The Quebec skilled worker selection program reflects the province’s commitment to attracting talented individuals who will enhance Quebec’s diverse culture and economy.
The Four Streams of PSTQ
The PSTQ is organized into four distinct streams: highly qualified and specialized skills, intermediate and manual skills, regulated professions, and exceptional talent.
| Stream | Target Occupations | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Stream 1: Highly Qualified and Specialized Skills | FEER 0, 1, 2 occupations | University graduates, professionals |
| Stream 2: Intermediate and Manual Skills | FEER 3, 4, 5 occupations | Skilled trades, technical workers |
| Stream 3: Regulated Professions | Licensed professionals | Doctors, nurses, engineers |
| Stream 4: Exceptional Talent | Research, innovation | PhD holders, exceptional achievers |
Strategic Priorities: Quebec’s Targeted Approach
The invitations first targeted persons already living in Québec. They mostly prioritize persons who speak French, have Québec work experience or hold a diploma from Québec, in the regions in particular, and who practise an occupation that contributes to relieving the labour shortage.
The Quebec skilled worker selection program is particularly focused on candidates who can demonstrate a strong connection to the province.
This targeted approach serves multiple strategic objectives:
Regional Development Focus
Quebec is particularly interested in candidates who can contribute to regional economic development outside major urban centers. The program prioritizes individuals with regional Quebec experience or education.
Labor Shortage Solutions
The system prioritizes French-speaking candidates who already live, study, or work in Quebec—especially those contributing to regional labour needs. This ensures that immigration directly addresses Quebec’s most pressing workforce challenges.
Integration Success
By focusing on individuals already established in Quebec, the program aims to improve integration outcomes and long-term retention rates.
Scoring System and Selection Criteria
The PSTQ employs a comprehensive point-based system that evaluates candidates across multiple factors:
The evaluation process under the Quebec skilled worker selection program emphasizes the importance of candidates’ ability to communicate in French, reflecting the province’s cultural values.
Point Distribution Categories
Human capital (max 520 points): French proficiency can add up to 200 points across the four language skills, making language skills the most significant factor in the scoring system.
Key Scoring Components:
- French Language Proficiency: Up to 200 points (most heavily weighted)
- Education: Points based on level and Quebec recognition
- Work Experience: Quebec experience receives additional points
- Age: Optimal points for candidates in prime working years
- Employment Offer: Valid Quebec job offers provide bonus points
- Regional Factor: Additional points for regional settlement commitments
Minimum Score Requirements
The first invitation round established a high benchmark with Stream 1 requiring a minimum of 768 points, indicating the competitive nature of the selection process.
Eligibility Requirements: What Applicants Need to Know
Understanding the eligibility requirements for the Quebec skilled worker selection program is crucial for potential applicants to navigate the application process successfully.
General Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the PSTQ, you must be considered a skilled worker. You must be 18 years of age or older.
Universal Requirements for All Streams:
- Age 18 or older
- Plan to settle in Quebec for eligible employment
- Ability to perform intended occupation in Quebec
- Financial self-sufficiency for first three months
- Attestation of learning of democratic and Quebec values
- Compliance with any Quebec scholarship return obligations
French Language Requirements: The New Standard
The PSTQ’s emphasis on French proficiency represents a significant departure from previous programs. The Échelle québécoise des niveaux de compétence en français serves as the measurement standard, with different requirements across streams:
Minimum French Requirements by Skill:
- Oral Comprehension: Level 7 (Stream 1)
- Oral Expression: Level 7 (Stream 1)
- Written Comprehension: Level 5 (Stream 1)
- Written Expression: Level 5 (Stream 1)
These requirements reflect Quebec’s commitment to ensuring successful linguistic integration of immigrants.
Application Process: From Arrima to Selection
The application process for the Quebec skilled worker selection program is designed to be transparent and accessible for skilled workers.
Step 1: Declaration of Interest
Those interested in immigrating to Quebec through this program must complete a declaration of interest in Arrima. The Arrima portal serves as Quebec’s primary immigration management system.
Step 2: Profile Updates
Declarations that have been completed before November 29, 2024 (when the PSTQ came into effect) must be updated. This ensures all candidates are evaluated under the new criteria.
Step 3: Ranking and Selection
Declarations of interest that are submitted are ranked according to the PSTQ scoring system. Those who obtain high scores and are able to meet the criteria may receive an invitation to apply for permanent selection under a stream of the PSTQ.
Step 4: Application Submission
Selected candidates receive invitations to submit complete applications with supporting documentation within specified timeframes.
Comparing PSTQ to Federal Programs
The PSTQ operates independently of federal immigration programs, though successful candidates must eventually apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
| Factor | PSTQ | Express Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Language Priority | French mandatory | English/French options |
| Geographic Focus | Quebec-specific | Canada-wide |
| Selection Authority | Quebec government | Federal government |
| Processing Pathway | Provincial then federal | Direct federal |
| Job Market Focus | Quebec labor needs | National priorities |
Impact on Quebec’s Immigration Landscape
Meeting Labor Market Demands
The Quebec skilled worker selection program’s focus on integrating skilled workers into the local economy aims to address labor shortages effectively.
The first invitation round’s focus on candidates already in Quebec suggests strong alignment with immediate labor market needs. This approach should reduce the time between selection and workforce integration.
Strengthening French-Language Immigration
The mandatory French requirements represent a significant policy shift, likely to increase the proportion of French-speaking immigrants to Quebec over time.
Regional Development Support
The program’s emphasis on regional candidates supports Quebec’s goal of distributing immigration benefits beyond Montreal and Quebec City.
Challenges and Considerations
Limited Invitation Numbers
With only 238 invitations in the first round, competition remains intense. The high minimum score of 768 points indicates that only top-tier candidates are currently being selected.
Transition Period Complexities
Candidates with existing profiles under the previous system must navigate updates and new requirements, potentially creating confusion during the transition.
Documentation Requirements
The program’s emphasis on Quebec credentials and experience may disadvantage qualified candidates without provincial connections.
Future Outlook and Expectations
Invitation Frequency
While Quebec has not committed to a specific invitation schedule, the government indicated that invitations will be issued gradually, suggesting regular but potentially infrequent rounds.
Stream Activation Timeline
The first round only activated Streams 1 and 4. Streams 2 and 3, covering intermediate skills and regulated professions, are expected to begin issuing invitations in subsequent rounds.
Score Trends
Future invitation rounds may see varying minimum scores based on application volume and Quebec’s immediate labor market needs.
Practical Advice for Prospective Applicants
For those considering the Quebec skilled worker selection program, understanding the regional labor market can significantly enhance their chances of success.
Maximize Your French Proficiency
Given the heavy weighting of French language skills, candidates should prioritize achieving the highest possible proficiency levels across all four competencies.
Strengthen Quebec Connections
Work experience, education, or other ties to Quebec significantly enhance selection prospects. Consider opportunities to study or work in Quebec before applying.
Stay Informed on Regional Opportunities
Quebec’s focus on regional development means opportunities may be particularly strong outside major urban centers.
Maintain Updated Profiles
Regular updates to Arrima profiles ensure candidates are considered under current criteria and maintain active status in the system.
Conclusion: Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program
The launch of Quebec’s Skilled Worker Selection Program represents a new chapter in the province’s immigration strategy. The launch of Quebec’s new Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) marks a turning point for immigration to the province.
Overall, the Quebec skilled worker selection program is a pivotal development in the province’s immigration strategy, aiming to enrich Quebec’s labor force with skilled individuals.
With its emphasis on French proficiency, Quebec experience, and labor market alignment, the PSTQ promises to deliver immigrants who are better positioned for successful integration and long-term contribution to Quebec society.
As Quebec continues to refine and expand the program across all four streams, prospective immigrants should prepare thoroughly, particularly focusing on French language development and establishing Quebec connections where possible.
Additional Resources
- Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program Official Page
- French Language Assessment Information
- IRCC Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers
This information reflects the most current data available as of July 2025. Immigration requirements and procedures may change, and prospective applicants should always consult official Quebec government sources for the most up-to-date information.
