Quebec is steeped in European culture and history with flourishing cities such as Montreal and Quebec City – the capital. Quebec possesses a stable economy with varied booming industries including information and communications technologies (ICT), distribution biotechnology, and aerospace and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Quebec is the only Canadian province where French is the primary official language, with Quebecois French as the regional variety. The province’s education system is excellent, and most schools have French as the primary medium of instruction.
A renowned center of culture in Canada, Quebec has many creative platforms, broadcasting networks, and government institutions promoting arts and culture initiatives in French.
Quebec doesn’t have a typical Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) like other provinces in Canada. Instead, it has a special immigration deal with the Government of Canada. It has its own Quebec PNP eligibility requirements and rules for selecting newcomers it deems eligible to work, settle and adapt to the Quebecois way of life. Quebec PNP processing times are distinct to each program and are varied.
Learn more about how fast you can move to Canada using its’ immigration visa pathways.
Quebec is the place to immerse in French Canadian culture! Here is a list of the Quebec PNP visa pathways you can use to start your journey to becoming a Quebecer!
Make Your Move to Canada
For Immigrants With Job Offers In Quebec
This Quebec Immigration PNP pathway is designed to attract and retain highly skilled international immigrant workers who want to apply for permanent residence in Canada. To fulfill Quebec PNP eligibility criteria, eligible highly skilled immigrants must also have work experience and a job offer categorized into Quebec’s in-demand jobs list.
Quebec Skilled Worker Program
The Quebec Skilled Worker Program is designed for immigrants with a job offer in Quebec. This program aims to attract skilled individuals who can contribute to the province’s economy and integrate into Quebecois society.
The processing time for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program varies, but it takes approximately 12 to 18 months to receive a decision. Applicants selected for this program will receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), an essential step toward obtaining permanent residency in Quebec. To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:
| Criterion | What Is Evaluated | Maximum Points Scored (Out Of 120) |
|---|---|---|
| Education Levels | Level of education and training area | 14 |
| Training Area | Training area and labor market demand in Quebec | 12 |
| Job Experience | Number of years of experience in the occupation | 8 |
| Age Requirements | Candidate’s age at the time of application | 16 |
| Proficiency of Lanugage | Candidate’s proficiency in using French and English | 22 |
| Family Members in Quebec | Candidate’s relationship with family members in Quebec | 3 |
| Characteristics of Your Spouse | Your spouse’s work experience, education and language proficiency | 17 |
| Valid Job Offer | Location of the job offer | 14 |
The Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Food Processing Workers
The Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Food Processing Workers is a Quebec PNP stream for immigrants with job offers in Quebec’s food industry. This aims to address labor shortages in the food processing industry and contribute to the growth of the provincial economy. The processing time for this program can vary, but it generally takes around 6 to 12 months to receive a decision. To be eligible for this program, applicants must:
- Be presently employed in an eligible occupation in Quebec’s food processing sector
- Hold a job full-time job in Quebec for a minimum of 24 months in an eligible sector during the 36 months before the submission of the application
- Have intermediate oral knowledge of the French language equal to Level 7 on the Échelle québécoise des niveaux de compétence en français des personnes immigrantes adultes
- Be 18 years or older
- Have intentions to settle and actively work in Quebec
- Respect the conditions of their stay in Quebec
The occupations eligible for this program include:
| NOC Codes | Occupations |
|---|---|
| 94140 | Food and beverage processing, process control and machine operator |
| 85100 | General farm worker only in the position of chicken catcher |
| 94142 | Seafood and fish plant worker |
The Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Orderlies
The Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Orderlies is for immigrants with job offers as orderlies in Quebec. This Quebec Immigration PNP stream aims to address the shortage of healthcare professionals in the province by attracting and retaining foreign workers to the province.
The processing time for the Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Orderlies varies, but it takes approximately 6 to 12 months to receive a decision on average. Applicants selected for this program will receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), an important step toward obtaining permanent residency in Quebec. To be eligible for this program, applicants must:
- Be temporary foreign workers in Quebec and work as an orderly, patient service assistant, or nurse aide
- Speak French fluently
- Have experience in Quebec working as an orderly
- Currently have an orderly job in Quebec when they applied
- Have intentions to settle and actively work in Quebec
- Respect the conditions of their stay in Quebec
Occupations eligible for this program include:
- Process control and machine operator, food and beverage processing: NOC 33102
Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Workers in the Artificial Intelligence, Information Technologies, and Visual Effects Sectors
The Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Workers in the Artificial Intelligence, Information Technologies, and Visual Effects Sectors is for individuals working in these industries.
This Quebec PNP program aims to attract skilled workers in these high-demand sectors to contribute to the province’s innovation and economic growth. The processing time for this program can vary, but it generally takes around 6 to 12 months to receive a decision. To be eligible for this program, applicants must:
- Be foreign workers, artificial intelligence graduates in Quebec, or foreign workers in IT and Visual Effects
- Speak French proficiently if they apply using the Francophone profile
- Be accepted for a job in Quebec’s Artificial Intelligence(AI), Information technologies (IT), or Visual Effects sectors
- Satisfy Quebec’s immigration PNPs’ general requirements such as work experience in an eligible sector and job
Start Your Canadian Journey
For Immigrants Who Worked or Studied in Quebec
If you have prior experience working or studying in Canada, you can use the following Quebec PNP program to apply for permanent residency there.
Quebec Experience Class
The Quebec Experience Class is a program designed for immigrants with work experience or who completed their studies in Quebec. This program aims to retain talented individuals already integrated into Quebecois society and has established connections in the province. To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet certain criteria, including:
- Quebec Graduate – if you qualified from an eligible Quebec institution and have a minimum of 12 to 18 months (depending on your study program) of experience working in Quebec;
- Skilled Temporary Worker – if you have had a skilled job in the province for a minimum of 24 months to 36 months
To be eligible for the Programme de l’Expérience Québécoise (PEQ – Quebec experience program), you must:
- Be a Quebec graduate who is an international or a temporary foreign worker
- Work in an occupation at Temporary Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) level 0, 1, 2, or 3 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC)
- Satisfy the general requirements of the program and the specific conditions of the stream you apply to
- Submit, pay your fees, and upload your application (with the required documents)via the Arrima portal
Please note you must apply for this program on the Arrima platform. Arrima is an electronic information management system that functions as an administrative depository for immigration application submissions to Quebec.
For Immigrants That Want to Start a Business in Quebec
If you want to apply for permanent residence in Quebec and want to invest in, start a new, or buy an existing business in the province, here are some business-oriented PNPs in Quebec you can choose from to apply:
- Entrepreneur Program
- Investor Program
- Self-Employed Program
- Entrepreneur
Self-Employed Worker Program
The Self-Employed Worker Program is designed for immigrants who want to start their businesses in Quebec. This program aims to attract individuals with experience in cultural or athletic activities and can contribute to the development of Quebec’s cultural or athletic scene.
The processing time for the Self-Employed Worker Program can vary, but it takes approximately 8 to 14 months to receive a decision on average. To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:
- Net worth of minimum of 100,000 CAD
- Deposit of a minimum of 25,000 to 50,000 CAD in start-up capital
- Minimum two years of work experience in a relevant self-employed occupation
- Score sufficient selection grid points
- Legally work as a self-employed professional in a regulated profession
Entrepreneur Program
The Entrepreneur Program is another pathway for immigrants who want to start a business in Quebec. This program aims to attract individuals who have the intention and ability to create or acquire a business in Quebec and actively participate in its management.
There are two streams under this program. Stream 1 is for foreign entrepreneurs intending to start and run a business in the province, and Stream 2 is for foreign entrepreneurs interested in purchasing and running a business there.
The processing time for the Entrepreneur Program can vary, but it takes approximately 12 to 18 months to receive a decision. To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:
- Minimum start-up deposit between 200,000 and 300,000 CAD, including a minimum of 900,000 CAD net worth
- Ownership and control of a minimum of 25% equity in the business if you intend to start your own
- Own and control at least 51% equity in the enterprise If you choose to buy an existing business
- Actively manage the business
- Score sufficient selection grid points
- Receive an attestation of learning about Quebec and democratic values
Investor Program
The Investor Program is designed for individuals wanting to invest in the Quebec economy. This program aims to attract experienced investors who can contribute to the province’s economic development.
The processing time for the Investor Program can vary, but it takes approximately 12 to 18 months to receive a decision. To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:
- Entry into an investment agreement with a financial intermediary such as an investment broker or a trusted company that has an agreement with the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration and IQ Immigrants Investisseurs Inc.
- Agreement to a five-year term investment of a minimum of 1,200,000 CAD
- Have a minimum of 2,000,000 CAD in net assets
- Have a minimum of two years of business management experience obtained in the past five years
- Score sufficient selection grid points
- Receive an attestation of learning about Quebec and democratic values
For Immigrants With Family in Quebec
If you have any family in Quebec, you can use the following immigration visa pathway to apply to move to the province.
The Family Reunification Program
The Family Reunification Program is designed for immigrants with close family members residing in Quebec. This program aims to facilitate the reunification of families and strengthen the province’s social fabric.
The processing time for the Family Reunification Program can vary, but on average, it takes approximately 12 to 18 months to receive a decision.
To be eligible for this program, applicants must:
- Spouse/Partner
- The spouse or conjugal partner must be at least 16 years old when applying.
- Dependent Child
- If the sponsor sponsors a dependent child, they have to demonstrate their financial capacity.
- Parents/Grandparents
- The sponsor must demonstrate their support for their parents financially.
How to Apply for Quebec Immigration PNP
To apply for the Quebec Immigration PNP, applicants must follow a series of steps, which include:
Step 1: Ensure Your Eligibility
Appplicants must determine the most suitable program based on their eligibility and objectives. One of the best ways to do this is to work with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) to determine which program you’re most eligible for among the RSWP, PEQ, Pilot, or business immigration programs.
Step 2: Create Your Online Profiles and Fill out Your Forms
Applicants must create, complete and register an account on the Quebec Immigration website and submit an online application form.
- For RSWP, submit an expression of interest through Arrima. Only applicants who the minister invites can submit an application for permanent selection via this program
- For PEQ, use the Demande de sélection permanente Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ) – Diplômé du Quebec form
- For the Permanent Immigration Pilot Program, apply using the Arrima platform
Step 3: Gather Your Documentation
Once they have chosen a program, they need to gather all the required documents, such as:
- Identification documents
- Educational certificates
- Work experience letters
- Language test results
- Proof of funds
Each program has its list of documents, so you must pay close attention to the instruction manual you receive when you apply on the Quebec provincial government website.
Step 4: Pay Your Fees and Submit Your Application
Once the online application is submitted, applicants must pay the required fees. The processing fees for the Quebec Immigration PNP can vary depending on the program chosen. After submitting the application and paying the fees, applicants will need to wait for the Quebec government to review their application and make a decision.
The processing time for most applications for permanent selection using the PEQ is within six months. You will be issued a Certificat de sélection du Quebec (CSQ) if selected, confirming you have been set for immigration to Quebec.
Why Quebec is the Place to be in Canada!
The province of Quebec provides a unique and rich alternative experience to living in Canada. Among the many reasons Quebec has endured as a primal destination for immigration within Canada include:
Beautiful Natural Environment
The province’s natural beauty, including stunning landscapes, national parks, and outdoor recreation activities, also adds to the overall appeal of living in Quebec. Quebec has scenic beauty with prominent national parks such as Forillon, Mingan Archipelago, and La Mauricie. It also has a humid continental climate where citizens and permanent residents can enjoy four seasons yearly.
Affordable Living Costs
The province’s strong economy, excellent healthcare system, and world-class education institutions further contribute to its appeal. According to numbeo.com, the cost of living without rent in Montreal, Quebec’s largest city, is 1,254.4 CAD, while in Toronto, Ontario’s largest city is 1,464.2 CAD. Furthermore, according to numbeo.com, rent prices in Toronto are 70.4% higher than in Montreal.
Safe and Secure Communities
Quebec has a safe living environment, excellent education facilities, and options, a low unemployment rate of 4%, according to Canada Job Bank, and an active social scene.
Unique French Canadian Culture
Quebec has its own distinct culture and language, which adds to its charm and allows immigrants to experience a different way of life while still enjoying the benefits of living in Canada.
Quebec is famous for its French Canadian culture and is known as North America’s birthplace of French civilization. Quebec City offers the perfect setting to learn to speak French at your own pace. Quebec City is a UNESCO City of Literature, making it the first francophone city to be bestowed with this honor.
The Quebec PNP Program offers various pathways for immigrants to obtain permanent residency in Quebec. Whether individuals have job offers in Quebec, have studied or worked in the province, want to start a business, or have family members residing in Quebec, programs are available to suit their specific circumstances.
With its unique blend of cultural diversity, economic opportunities, and high quality of life, Quebec is undoubtedly an ideal place to settle in Canada. To immigrate to Quebec in as quick and problem-free a manner as possible, we recommend you enlist the services of an RCIC.
An RCIC is a licensed immigration consultant authorized and certified to represent and guide individuals through their application for permanent residence in Canada. They can examine visa or immigration applications and submit them on behalf of the applicant to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
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FAQs
Can I Immigrate Through the Quebec PNP if I Don’t Have a Job Offer?
Several streams within the Quebec PNP program do not require a job offer. These include the Quebec Experience Class, the Self-Employed Worker Program, the Entrepreneur Program, and the Investor Program. Each of these streams has its eligibility criteria and requirements, so it is important to review the specific program guidelines to determine your eligibility.
Which City in Quebec Has the Highest Chances for Employment?
While employment opportunities can vary depending on the industry and sector, Montreal is often considered the economic hub of Quebec and offers a wide range of job opportunities. The city is home to a thriving technology sector and numerous multinational companies and startups.
Other cities in Quebec, such as Quebec City and Sherbrooke, also offer employment opportunities in various industries. Researching the job market and industry trends in specific cities is advisable to determine where your skills and qualifications may be in high demand.