Invitation to Submit a Permanent Selection Application through the Regular Skilled Worker Program in Quebec

Recent Invitations

On August 6, 2024, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration (MIFI) announced the results of the 69th and 70th invitation rounds for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) through its Arrima platform.

• 69th Invitation Round (July 25, 2024):
  • Number of Candidates Invited: 1,560
  • Minimum Score Required: 579
  • Criteria: Candidates must have at least level 7 oral proficiency in French.

• This invitation was also addressed to those candidates who had a valid job offer outside the Montreal Metropolitan Community.
• The occupation they held appears in the following list of the National Occupational Classification (NOC 2016):

• 70th Invitation Round (August 1, 2024):
  • Number of Candidates Invited: 1,490
  • Minimum Score Required: 580
  • Criteria: Candidates must have at least level 7 oral proficiency in French.
  • This invitation was also addressed to those candidates who had a valid job offer outside the Montreal Metropolitan Community.

In total, Quebec has issued 18,112 invitations through the regular Arrima draws in 2024, reflecting a robust immigration strategy to attract skilled workers to the province.

Summary of 2024 Arrima Draws

The Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP) is a key pathway for individuals seeking to immigrate to Quebec as skilled workers. This program is designed for those who wish to establish themselves in Quebec, whether they are currently residing in the province or abroad. Below is a comprehensive overview of the criteria, scoring system, application process, and other essential details related to the RSWP.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the RSWP, applicants must meet specific criteria:

• Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• Education: A minimum level of education is required, which varies depending on the applicant’s situation. Points are awarded based on the highest level of education attained.
• Work Experience: Relevant work experience in a skilled occupation is crucial. Points are awarded based on the duration and nature of the work experience.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in French and/or English is assessed. While French is the primary language in Quebec, English proficiency can also contribute to the score.
• Job Offer: Having a validated job offer from a Quebec employer can significantly enhance an applicant’s score.
• Family in Quebec: Points can be awarded if the applicant has family members residing in Quebec who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

Expression of Interest (EOI)

To initiate the application process, candidates must submit an EOI through the Arrima portal. This submission includes personal information and qualifications, which will be scored based on the aforementioned criteria. Quebec’s immigration ministry conducts regular draws from the Arrima pool, inviting candidates with the highest scores to apply for permanent selection.

Application Process

Once invited, candidates must follow these steps:

• Submit Supporting Documents: After submitting the application, candidates will receive a personalized list of required documents. This includes proof of language proficiency, educational credentials, work experience, and an attestation of learning about Quebec values.
  • Document Submission Timeline: Candidates have 60 days from the submission of their application to provide the necessary documents. All documents must be in French or English or accompanied by a certified translation.

Processing of Applications

The processing of permanent selection applications involves several steps:

• Evaluation of Application: Applications are assessed based on the selection grid, which evaluates the applicant’s potential for integration into Quebec’s labor market.
  • Possible Outcomes:
    • Selected: If the applicant meets all criteria, they will receive a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), allowing them to apply for permanent residence in Canada.
    • Not Selected: If the application does not meet the required criteria, it may be rejected.

These draws are part of Quebec’s ongoing efforts to manage its immigration system effectively while addressing labor shortages in various sectors. The emphasis on French language proficiency and job offers outside Montreal aligns with the province’s goal of promoting regional development and integration.