info@canada-immigration.global
Quebec Skilled Worker
QUEBEC SKILLED WORKER
Welcome to the official website of the Canada Immigration Global. 45+ Years of Excellence
Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) is Quebec’s primary immigration pathway for skilled professionals and workers who wish to settle permanently in the province. Through this program, Quebec selects candidates who demonstrate the ability to integrate economically and socially into a French-speaking labour market.
Unlike federal immigration programs such as Express Entry, the QSWP operates entirely under Quebec’s authority and follows its own selection criteria and procedures.
How the Quebec Skilled Worker Program Works Today
The QSWP is a points-based selection program, but it no longer operates as a direct application system. Instead, Quebec uses the Arrima Expression of Interest (EOI) portal to manage applications.
Candidates first submit an expression of interest through Arrima. Quebec then periodically issues invitations to apply based on labour market needs, language ability, occupation demand, and integration potential. Only invited candidates can submit a full application for selection.
This system allows Quebec to control immigration levels while prioritising candidates who best meet current economic and linguistic objectives.
Is a Job Offer Required Under QSWP?
A validated job offer from a Quebec employer is not mandatory, but it significantly strengthens a candidate’s profile. Applicants with job offers, Quebec work experience, or prior stays in Quebec are often prioritised during invitation rounds.
Quebec also gives preference to:
- Temporary residents already living in Quebec
- Graduates of Quebec educational institutions
- Applicants with strong French proficiency
- Candidates trained in occupations facing labour shortages
Points-Based Selection Under QSWP
Although QSWP is still points-based, selection today is more dynamic than the older fixed scoring tables. Points are assessed across multiple human capital and adaptability factors, but meeting a minimum score does not guarantee an invitation. Key assessment areas include education, area of training, work experience, age, language proficiency (especially French), connections to Quebec, and financial self-sufficiency. Candidates with accompanying spouses or partners are assessed on combined adaptability factors. French language ability now plays a central role in selection and invitation decisions.
French Language and Quebec Values Requirement
All applicants selected under the QSWP must demonstrate:
- Knowledge of Quebec democratic and societal values, either through an approved test or course
- Functional French proficiency appropriate for labour market integration
While English language ability may be assessed, French carries significantly more weight in Quebec’s selection process compared to federal programs.
Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ)
Candidates who are approved under the QSWP receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ). The CSQ confirms that Quebec has selected the applicant for immigration but does not grant permanent residence. After receiving a CSQ, applicants must apply to the federal government for permanent residence. This stage includes medical examinations, criminal background checks, and security screening. Permanent residence is granted only after federal approval.
Processing Times and Application Flow
Processing timelines under the QSWP vary depending on:
- Invitation cycles
- Application volumes
- Candidate profile complexity
- Federal processing times after CSQ issuance
Unlike Express Entry, Quebec immigration processing is not bound by six-month service standards and should be approached as a multi-stage process.
How QSWP Differs from PEQ
The QSWP is often compared to the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), but the two serve different applicant profiles.
The QSWP is intended for skilled workers inside or outside Quebec, while PEQ is reserved for individuals who already have Quebec education or work experience. PEQ is not points-based, whereas QSWP relies on competitive selection through Arrima.
Applicants should choose the pathway that best matches their background and long-term plans.
Why Skilled Workers Choose Quebec
Quebec offers strong opportunities for skilled professionals due to:
- Labour demand in healthcare, IT, engineering, manufacturing, and trades
- Subsidised education and childcare
- Public healthcare
- Government-funded settlement and French language training
- A lower cost of living in many regions compared to other major provinces
For applicants willing to integrate into a French-speaking environment, Quebec offers long-term stability and opportunity.
Popular Immigration Programs
Professional Support for QSWP Applications
Quebec immigration requires careful planning, particularly around language requirements, Arrima profile strategy, and documentation accuracy.
Canada Immigration Global assists applicants with:
- QSWP eligibility assessment
- Arrima profile optimisation
- CSQ application preparation
- Federal permanent residence processing after selection
Talk to our Canadian immigration experts to find your eligibility for the Canada PR Visa programs now and take a huge leap towards your dream life.