Quebec Skilled Worker Program (PSTQ): The 2025 Permanent Residency Pathway

The Quebec Skilled Worker Program—officially known as the Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ)—is Quebec’s main immigration pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residency. This program is distinct from Canada’s federal Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs, featuring its own points system, selection streams, and requirements, with a strong focus on French language skills and Quebec-specific experience.

Program Overview & 2025 Updates

• The PSTQ now operates with four specialized selection streams:
  • Highly qualified and specialized skills
  • Intermediate and manual skills
  • Regulated professions
  • Exceptional talent
• French language proficiency is now mandatory for most streams.
• Invitations to apply are issued through rounds based on points and Quebec’s economic priorities. The first wave in July 2025 focuses on individuals living, working, or studying in Quebec—especially in-demand jobs outside Montréal.

How the Program Works

1. Expression of Interest (Arrima Portal):
   • Create or update your profile on Arrima, Quebec’s online talent pool.
   • Profiles are scored and ranked using Quebec’s points grid, with factors including French proficiency, education, age, work experience, validated job offer, family/study/work in Quebec, and adaptability.
2. Invitation to Apply: High-scoring candidates are invited to submit a full application for the Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ).
3. Application Submission: Submit required documents and application on Mon Projet Québec within the deadline.
4. CSQ & Canadian PR: If selected, receive a CSQ, then apply to the federal government for permanent residence (medical and security checks apply).

Key Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Minimum 18 years old.
• French Language: French skills proven by accredited tests (TEF, TCF, DELF, DALF).
• Education: Diploma (Quebec or equivalent) tied to your stream and occupation. Examples include DEPs (900+ hours for vocational), college/university diplomas, or recognized foreign qualifications.
• Work Experience: At least 1 year of relevant experience (Stream 1); for most, must be recent and related to your occupation.
• Financial Self-Sufficiency: Must show you can support yourself and any accompanying family for your first 3 months in Quebec.
• Values Attestation: Complete and obtain the “Attestation d’apprentissage des valeurs démocratiques et des valeurs québécoises.”
• Other Factors: Spouse’s French, Quebec relatives, study/work in Quebec, validated regional job offers, and in-demand occupations can greatly increase your score.

Points Grid Highlights

• French language: Up to 200 points for main applicant (extra points for spousal French ability).
• Quebec education/work: Strong preference for Quebec graduates and in-province experience.
• Regional initiatives: Extra points for working/studying outside Montréal and for jobs on the “in deficit” list.

Streams Breakdown (2025)

• Stream 1: TEER 0, 1, or 2 occupations (NOC). At least 1 year of related experience, Quebec or foreign diploma, strong French.
• Stream 2: TEER 3, 4, or 5 (intermediate/manual skills). Focus on trades, operators, and related fields.
• Stream 3: Regulated professions, which require additional licensing.
• Stream 4: Exceptional talent (arts, sports, outstanding researchers, etc.).

Application Process Timeline

1. Step 1: Submit (or update) your declaration of interest using Arrima (free, valid 1 year).
2. Step 2: Await invitation; check minimum cut-off score and stream details as published after each round.
3. Step 3: If invited, gather documents and apply for a CSQ via Mon Projet Québec. (Must accept invitation within 30 days, then file within 60 days or 12 months for regulated professions.)
4. Step 4: Upon approval, receive CSQ, then apply for Canadian PR with the federal government.

Tips for Success

• Maximize French proficiency—the highest scores depend on it.
• Gain Quebec experience—study or work outside of Montréal for extra points.
• Target in-demand occupations based on current Quebec labour lists.
• Keep all profiles and documents up to date; invitations are based on the latest criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is French required? Yes, for most streams, proven French proficiency is mandatory.
• Can I apply from outside Quebec? Yes, though initial invitation waves focus on current residents, overseas applicants with strong French and in-demand skills are welcome.
• Do I need a job offer? Not always, but a validated offer in a needed occupation adds many points.

Why Choose the Quebec Skilled Worker Program?

• Direct route to Quebec permanent residency for skilled workers and their families.
• Benefits those with strong French, local experience or education, or in-demand professions.
• Streamlined online process with transparent, point-based selection and regular draws.