Last Updated 07 September 2026

Quebec Immigration Programs: Eligibility, Requirements & How to Apply

Quebec has its own immigration system under the Canada–Quebec Accord, which allows the province to select immigrants who plan to live and work in Quebec. Skilled workers selected by Quebec generally receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) before applying for permanent residence through the Government of Canada.

The main Quebec immigration pathways include the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ), Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), business immigration programs, and family reunification. The right option depends on your occupation, education, work experience, French-language skills, employment situation, and plans to settle in Quebec.

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Quebec Immigration Programs

Important:  The former Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ/QSWP) has been replaced by the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ). The PSTQ is now Quebec's main skilled-worker selection programme.  This means the older QSWP points grid, old eligibility rules and historical draw information should not be presented as current requirements.

Why Choose the Quebec Immigration Program?

• 45,000 permanent residents: Quebec plans to welcome around 45,000 permanent residents each year under its current immigration plan.
• 28,275 skilled workers: Quebec has planned around 28,275 admissions through its skilled-worker category.
• Strong demand for French speakers: French-language skills are an important factor in Quebec's immigration system.
• PSTQ is the main skilled-worker route: The Skilled Worker Selection Program is Québec's main pathway for skilled professionals.
• Targeted invitations: Quebec invites candidates based on occupations, French skills, work experience and labour-market needs.
• 14,615 PSTQ invitations: Quebec issued 14,615 invitations through the PSTQ between December 2025 and June 2026.
• Regional opportunities: Candidates willing to work and settle outside major cities may benefit from Quebec's regional immigration priorities.

Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)

The Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) is designed for people who want to permanently settle and work in Quebec. Candidates first submit an expression of interest through Arrima. Quebec assesses profiles based on its current selection criteria and labour-market priorities. Candidates who meet the requirements and are selected may receive an invitation to submit an application for permanent selection.

The PSTQ has four streams, designed for different types of skilled workers:

• Highly qualified and specialized skills
• Intermediate and manual skills
• Regulated professions
• Exceptional talent

Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)

The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) is designed for certain people who already have a connection with Québec through study or temporary employment. The programme has two main categories:

• Quebec Graduates: This route is intended for eligible international students who have completed qualifying studies in Quebec and meet the programme requirements.
• Temporary Foreign Workers: This route is intended for eligible temporary foreign workers who have qualifying work experience in Quebec.

Quebec Business Immigration Programs

Quebec also offers business immigration options for people who want to establish, manage or invest in a business in the province. These options include entrepreneurs, investors and self-employed workers. Applicants must meet the requirements of the relevant programme, which may include business experience, financial capacity, investment or business plans, and other eligibility conditions. The specific requirements depend on the business immigration pathway selected.

Quebec Family Sponsorship

Quebec also has a family reunification system for eligible residents who want to sponsor certain family members. Depending on the relationship, sponsorship can cover eligible:

• Spouses or partners
• Dependent children
• Parents
• Grandparents
• Other eligible relatives in specific situations

Family sponsorship involves both Quebec and federal immigration requirements, so applicants should check the current rules before submitting an application.

How Does Quebec Immigration Work?

The Québec immigration process for economic immigrants generally involves two main stages

Stage 1: Selection by Québec

Applicants must first apply through the appropriate Québec immigration programme. For skilled workers, the process may begin by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Arrima. If selected, the applicant can apply for Québec selection and, if approved, receive a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ).

Stage 2: Apply for Permanent Residence

After receiving the CSQ, the applicant must submit a separate application for permanent residence to the Government of Canada. The federal government then checks the applicant's admissibility, including medical, security and background requirements, before making the final permanent residence decision.

Quebec Immigration Requirements

There is no single eligibility requirement for all Quebec immigration programmes. Requirements depend on the programme you choose.

Applicants may need:

• A valid passport
• Relevant education
• Work experience
• Appropriate occupation
• French-language ability
• English-language ability, where relevant
• Proof of professional qualifications
• Professional licence or authorisation, where applicable
• Job offer, where required
• Proof of financial capacity
• Police certificates
• Medical examination
• Valid immigration documents
• Intention to settle in Quebec

For skilled workers, French has an important role in Quebec's selection system, and current invitation criteria can include specific French-language requirements.

Quebec Immigration vs Express Entry

Quebec immigration should not be treated as another Provincial Nominee Program. Quebec has a distinct role in Canada's immigration system under the Canada–Quebec Accord.

Steps to Apply for Quebec Immigration

Step 1: Choose a Québec immigration program that matches your education, work experience, occupation and language skills.

Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Arrima if required for your program.

Step 3: If your profile meets Québec's current requirements, you may receive an invitation to apply.

Step 4: Accept the invitation and submit your application, documents and fees within the given time.

Step 5: If approved, Québec will issue a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ).

Step 6: Submit your permanent residence application to the Government of Canada.

Step 7: Complete the required medical, security and background checks.

Step 8: After approval, complete the final formalities and move to Québec to settle.

Quebec PNP Draw Updates

How can the Y-Axis help you?

Y-Axis, the world’s best overseas immigration consultancy, provides unbiased immigration services for every client based on their interests and requirements.

The impeccable services of Y-Axis include the following:

• Free eligibility check through Quebec Immigration Points Calculator
• Expert guidance/counseling for Quebec Immigration
• Coaching services: French coaching, IELTS proficiency Coaching 
• Free career counseling; book your slot today. 
• Complete guidance for Canada PR visa
• Resume Marketing services to find jobs in Quebec