In an important development for Canadian immigration, the province of Quebec has initiated its 2025 immigration intake by issuing the first round of invitations under its revamped Skilled Worker Selection Program. This draw, conducted through the Arrima portal, signals the province’s strategic priorities for the coming year and provides a hopeful pathway for skilled professionals worldwide who dream of making Quebec their home. As this is the inaugural draw of the year, it offers invaluable insights into the profiles and qualifications that the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) is currently prioritizing.
On July 15, 2025, Quebec’s MIFI conducted a significant invitation round, marking a pivotal moment for aspiring immigrants. In this draw, 1,210 candidates were invited to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (Certificat de sélection du Québec, or CSQ). The minimum score required to receive an invitation in this round was 605 points on the Quebec Expression of Interest (EOI) ranking system. This draw stands out not just for its numbers but for its specific criteria, which underscore Quebec’s commitment to addressing its labour market needs while promoting the French language. The invitations targeted candidates who met specific requirements, including a high level of French proficiency, validated job offers in key sectors, and work experience in occupations facing shortages across the province. This strategic selection demonstrates a clear intention to integrate new immigrants smoothly into both the economy and society. Candidates with a score of 605 or higher who also possessed a level 7 or higher in French proficiency (oral and written) according to the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) were prioritized. Furthermore, a significant portion of the invitations went to individuals with a validated job offer located outside the Montréal Metropolitan Community (CMM), reflecting the government’s ongoing efforts to encourage regional immigration and distribute economic growth more evenly across the province.
Understanding the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)
The Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ), or Regular Skilled Worker Program, is Quebec’s primary pathway for economic immigrants. It is a points-based system designed to identify and select individuals who have the greatest potential to successfully establish themselves economically in the province. Unlike the federal Express Entry system, which manages applications for most other provinces, Quebec maintains its own distinct immigration system due to its unique cultural and linguistic identity. The process begins with a candidate submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the online Arrima portal. This EOI is not a formal application but rather a profile that showcases a candidate’s qualifications. Based on the information provided, each candidate is awarded a score and placed into a pool with other hopefuls. The scoring is comprehensive, evaluating a wide range of human capital and integration factors. These include age, level of education, area of training, skilled work experience, and, most critically, proficiency in French and English. Additional points are awarded for having a connection to the province, such as family members residing in Quebec or a validated job offer from a Quebec employer. MIFI periodically conducts draws from this EOI pool, inviting the highest-ranking candidates or those who meet specific criteria (like in the most recent draw) to submit a full application for a CSQ.
The Indispensable Role of the Arrima Portal
Since its introduction, the Arrima portal has become the centerpiece of Quebec’s skilled worker immigration process. It was designed to streamline the application system, moving away from the previous paper-based, first-come-first-served model to a more dynamic, responsive EOI system. This digital platform allows the Quebec government to manage the pool of candidates more effectively and select individuals who are best suited to meet the province’s evolving economic and demographic needs. The process for a potential immigrant is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. An individual must first create a secure profile on the Arrima platform. Once the profile is active, they can proceed to complete and submit an Expression of Interest form. This form collects detailed information about their skills, work history, language abilities, and other factors. After submission, the EOI is valid for one year, during which the candidate can update their profile if their circumstances change—for example, by improving their language test scores or securing a job offer. This dynamic nature is a key feature, as it allows candidates to actively improve their standing in the pool. It is through Arrima that MIFI conducts its regular invitation rounds, and successful candidates receive their official invitation to apply for a CSQ directly through the portal.
Key Steps in the Arrima Process: A summary of the journey from initial interest to final application.
Scoring and Ranking: The system automatically calculates a score based on the information provided, ranking the candidate against others in the pool.Receiving an Invitation: MIFI holds periodic draws, inviting candidates who meet the score threshold and other specific criteria to apply for selection.Application for CSQ: Upon receiving an invitation, candidates have a limited time (typically 60 days) to submit a complete application for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) and pay the required fees.Federal PR Application: Once a CSQ is issued, the candidate can then proceed to the final step: submitting an application for permanent residence to the federal government, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). IRCC will conduct medical and security checks before granting permanent resident status.
Crucial Factors for a Successful Quebec Immigration Application
Success in the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program hinges on a candidate’s ability to score highly on several key factors. While all elements of the EOI are important, some carry significantly more weight and can dramatically increase one’s chances of receiving an invitation. Chief among these is French language proficiency. Quebec places an immense value on the ability of newcomers to communicate and integrate in French. A high score on a recognized French language test, such as the TEF Canada or TCF Québec, is arguably the single most influential factor in the points grid. A strong command of French not only awards substantial points but also makes a candidate eligible for targeted draws that prioritize francophone or bilingual individuals. Beyond language, a candidate’s Area of Training (AOT) and work experience are critical. Quebec publishes a list of high-demand occupations and areas of training that correspond to its labour market needs. Candidates whose education and work experience align with these in-demand fields receive a significant number of points. Finally, securing a validated job offer from a Quebec employer is a powerful asset. A validated offer provides a large number of points and demonstrates a clear economic connection to the province, often placing a candidate at the top of the selection list. In particular, offers for positions located outside of the bustling Montreal region are highly favored, as they support the province’s goals for regional economic development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)? The PSTQ is Quebec’s main immigration program for skilled workers who wish to live and work in the province. It uses a points-based system to select candidates who have the best potential for successful economic integration, with a strong emphasis on French language skills and in-demand occupations.
What is the Arrima portal? Arrima is the online platform used by the Quebec government to manage the pool of candidates for the PSTQ. Aspiring immigrants must create a profile and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Arrima to be considered for an invitation to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ).
How does the scoring system for Quebec skilled workers function? The scoring system evaluates various factors, including age, education, work experience, area of training, language proficiency in French and English, and connections to Quebec like a job offer or family. Each factor is assigned a certain number of points, and candidates with higher overall scores are more likely to be invited.
Is French language proficiency mandatory for the PSTQ? While not strictly mandatory to submit an EOI, achieving a high score without strong French proficiency is extremely difficult. French language skills are the most heavily weighted factor, and most successful candidates demonstrate at least an intermediate to advanced level of French.
What happens after receiving an invitation from Quebec? After receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through Arrima, a candidate must submit a full application for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) within a specified timeframe. If the CSQ is granted, the applicant can then apply to the federal government (IRCC) for permanent residence in Canada.
The content above is not intended to provide legal advice or opinions of any kind and may not be used for professional or commercial purposes.
Profile Creation and EOI Submission: The first step is creating a detailed profile in the Arrima portal and submitting an Expression of Interest to enter the candidate pool.Scoring and Ranking: The system automatically calculates a score based on the information provided, ranking the candidate against others in the pool.Receiving an Invitation: MIFI holds periodic draws, inviting candidates who meet the score threshold and other specific criteria to apply for selection.Application for CSQ: Upon receiving an invitation, candidates have a limited time (typically 60 days) to submit a complete application for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) and pay the required fees.Federal PR Application: Once a CSQ is issued, the candidate can then proceed to the final step: submitting an application for permanent residence to the federal government, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). IRCC will conduct medical and security checks before granting permanent resident status.
Crucial Factors for a Successful Quebec Immigration Application
Success in the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program hinges on a candidate’s ability to score highly on several key factors. While all elements of the EOI are important, some carry significantly more weight and can dramatically increase one’s chances of receiving an invitation. Chief among these is French language proficiency. Quebec places an immense value on the ability of newcomers to communicate and integrate in French. A high score on a recognized French language test, such as the TEF Canada or TCF Québec, is arguably the single most influential factor in the points grid. A strong command of French not only awards substantial points but also makes a candidate eligible for targeted draws that prioritize francophone or bilingual individuals. Beyond language, a candidate’s Area of Training (AOT) and work experience are critical. Quebec publishes a list of high-demand occupations and areas of training that correspond to its labour market needs. Candidates whose education and work experience align with these in-demand fields receive a significant number of points. Finally, securing a validated job offer from a Quebec employer is a powerful asset. A validated offer provides a large number of points and demonstrates a clear economic connection to the province, often placing a candidate at the top of the selection list. In particular, offers for positions located outside of the bustling Montreal region are highly favored, as they support the province’s goals for regional economic development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)? The PSTQ is Quebec’s main immigration program for skilled workers who wish to live and work in the province. It uses a points-based system to select candidates who have the best potential for successful economic integration, with a strong emphasis on French language skills and in-demand occupations.
What is the Arrima portal? Arrima is the online platform used by the Quebec government to manage the pool of candidates for the PSTQ. Aspiring immigrants must create a profile and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Arrima to be considered for an invitation to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ).
How does the scoring system for Quebec skilled workers function? The scoring system evaluates various factors, including age, education, work experience, area of training, language proficiency in French and English, and connections to Quebec like a job offer or family. Each factor is assigned a certain number of points, and candidates with higher overall scores are more likely to be invited.
Is French language proficiency mandatory for the PSTQ? While not strictly mandatory to submit an EOI, achieving a high score without strong French proficiency is extremely difficult. French language skills are the most heavily weighted factor, and most successful candidates demonstrate at least an intermediate to advanced level of French.
What happens after receiving an invitation from Quebec? After receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through Arrima, a candidate must submit a full application for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) within a specified timeframe. If the CSQ is granted, the applicant can then apply to the federal government (IRCC) for permanent residence in Canada.
The content above is not intended to provide legal advice or opinions of any kind and may not be used for professional or commercial purposes.
Profile Creation and EOI Submission: The first step is creating a detailed profile in the Arrima portal and submitting an Expression of Interest to enter the candidate pool.Scoring and Ranking: The system automatically calculates a score based on the information provided, ranking the candidate against others in the pool.Receiving an Invitation: MIFI holds periodic draws, inviting candidates who meet the score threshold and other specific criteria to apply for selection.Application for CSQ: Upon receiving an invitation, candidates have a limited time (typically 60 days) to submit a complete application for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) and pay the required fees.Federal PR Application: Once a CSQ is issued, the candidate can then proceed to the final step: submitting an application for permanent residence to the federal government, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). IRCC will conduct medical and security checks before granting permanent resident status.
Crucial Factors for a Successful Quebec Immigration Application
Success in the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program hinges on a candidate’s ability to score highly on several key factors. While all elements of the EOI are important, some carry significantly more weight and can dramatically increase one’s chances of receiving an invitation. Chief among these is French language proficiency. Quebec places an immense value on the ability of newcomers to communicate and integrate in French. A high score on a recognized French language test, such as the TEF Canada or TCF Québec, is arguably the single most influential factor in the points grid. A strong command of French not only awards substantial points but also makes a candidate eligible for targeted draws that prioritize francophone or bilingual individuals. Beyond language, a candidate’s Area of Training (AOT) and work experience are critical. Quebec publishes a list of high-demand occupations and areas of training that correspond to its labour market needs. Candidates whose education and work experience align with these in-demand fields receive a significant number of points. Finally, securing a validated job offer from a Quebec employer is a powerful asset. A validated offer provides a large number of points and demonstrates a clear economic connection to the province, often placing a candidate at the top of the selection list. In particular, offers for positions located outside of the bustling Montreal region are highly favored, as they support the province’s goals for regional economic development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)? The PSTQ is Quebec’s main immigration program for skilled workers who wish to live and work in the province. It uses a points-based system to select candidates who have the best potential for successful economic integration, with a strong emphasis on French language skills and in-demand occupations.
What is the Arrima portal? Arrima is the online platform used by the Quebec government to manage the pool of candidates for the PSTQ. Aspiring immigrants must create a profile and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Arrima to be considered for an invitation to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ).
How does the scoring system for Quebec skilled workers function? The scoring system evaluates various factors, including age, education, work experience, area of training, language proficiency in French and English, and connections to Quebec like a job offer or family. Each factor is assigned a certain number of points, and candidates with higher overall scores are more likely to be invited.
Is French language proficiency mandatory for the PSTQ? While not strictly mandatory to submit an EOI, achieving a high score without strong French proficiency is extremely difficult. French language skills are the most heavily weighted factor, and most successful candidates demonstrate at least an intermediate to advanced level of French.
What happens after receiving an invitation from Quebec? After receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through Arrima, a candidate must submit a full application for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) within a specified timeframe. If the CSQ is granted, the applicant can then apply to the federal government (IRCC) for permanent residence in Canada.
The content above is not intended to provide legal advice or opinions of any kind and may not be used for professional or commercial purposes.
Profile Creation and EOI Submission: The first step is creating a detailed profile in the Arrima portal and submitting an Expression of Interest to enter the candidate pool.Scoring and Ranking: The system automatically calculates a score based on the information provided, ranking the candidate against others in the pool.Receiving an Invitation: MIFI holds periodic draws, inviting candidates who meet the score threshold and other specific criteria to apply for selection.Application for CSQ: Upon receiving an invitation, candidates have a limited time (typically 60 days) to submit a complete application for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) and pay the required fees.Federal PR Application: Once a CSQ is issued, the candidate can then proceed to the final step: submitting an application for permanent residence to the federal government, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). IRCC will conduct medical and security checks before granting permanent resident status.
Crucial Factors for a Successful Quebec Immigration Application
Success in the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program hinges on a candidate’s ability to score highly on several key factors. While all elements of the EOI are important, some carry significantly more weight and can dramatically increase one’s chances of receiving an invitation. Chief among these is French language proficiency. Quebec places an immense value on the ability of newcomers to communicate and integrate in French. A high score on a recognized French language test, such as the TEF Canada or TCF Québec, is arguably the single most influential factor in the points grid. A strong command of French not only awards substantial points but also makes a candidate eligible for targeted draws that prioritize francophone or bilingual individuals. Beyond language, a candidate’s Area of Training (AOT) and work experience are critical. Quebec publishes a list of high-demand occupations and areas of training that correspond to its labour market needs. Candidates whose education and work experience align with these in-demand fields receive a significant number of points. Finally, securing a validated job offer from a Quebec employer is a powerful asset. A validated offer provides a large number of points and demonstrates a clear economic connection to the province, often placing a candidate at the top of the selection list. In particular, offers for positions located outside of the bustling Montreal region are highly favored, as they support the province’s goals for regional economic development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)? The PSTQ is Quebec’s main immigration program for skilled workers who wish to live and work in the province. It uses a points-based system to select candidates who have the best potential for successful economic integration, with a strong emphasis on French language skills and in-demand occupations.
What is the Arrima portal? Arrima is the online platform used by the Quebec government to manage the pool of candidates for the PSTQ. Aspiring immigrants must create a profile and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Arrima to be considered for an invitation to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ).
How does the scoring system for Quebec skilled workers function? The scoring system evaluates various factors, including age, education, work experience, area of training, language proficiency in French and English, and connections to Quebec like a job offer or family. Each factor is assigned a certain number of points, and candidates with higher overall scores are more likely to be invited.
Is French language proficiency mandatory for the PSTQ? While not strictly mandatory to submit an EOI, achieving a high score without strong French proficiency is extremely difficult. French language skills are the most heavily weighted factor, and most successful candidates demonstrate at least an intermediate to advanced level of French.
What happens after receiving an invitation from Quebec? After receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through Arrima, a candidate must submit a full application for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) within a specified timeframe. If the CSQ is granted, the applicant can then apply to the federal government (IRCC) for permanent residence in Canada.
