New PSTQ program for skilled workers in Quebec

Quebec is a vast province of Canada, distinct from the rest of the region because of its French language and its autonomy in immigration policies. As of November 29, 2024, the local government implemented the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ), replacing the former Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ). 

As of the date of this publication, it should be recalled that there is a temporary suspension of invitations to apply for permanent selection in this province, which is expected to last until June 30, 2025, however, the new program is offered as a way to simplify the immigration process for skilled workers while Quebec's next multi-year immigration plan is being published.

In today's blog, I will give you a guide to the key aspects of the PSTQ, including general requirements, program categories and recommendations for fulfilling a successful permanent selection application. Let's get started.

‍

What is the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)?

The PSTQ is an immigration program specific to the province of Quebec, designed for skilled workers who wish to settle permanently in the region and contribute to its economy. The PSTQ works through a system of declaration of interest (DOI) by the candidate. 

How is this interest declared? 

The applicant submits his or her immigration profile through the Arrima system , which means that he or she submits information about his or her educational level, work experience and language proficiency, which results in a score and is included in a selection group.

‍

What is Arrima?

Arrima is a portal that serves as an online platform to manage immigration applications of foreign nationals interested in Quebec and is available for the submission of information related to the candidate's declaration of interest. It is through Arrima that the skilled worker provides his or her data. However, this information must be updated, otherwise, he/she may lose the opportunity to be selected.

‍

It is important that you update your declaration of interest!

Candidates who submitted a DOI under the previous program, (PRTQ), must update their profiles on the Arrima platform, so that they will be eligible for the new program, (PSTQ), once the suspension is lifted. Remember that failure to update your statement of interest may deny you the possibility of receiving the coveted invitation!

Okay, now let's look at the PSTQ categories and their main features.

PSTQ Categories

The Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program is characterized by being divided into four categories for different occupations, these are:

1. Category 1: highly qualified and specialized skills
   
   1. For occupations classified as FÉER/TEER (training, education, experience and responsibilities) 0, 1 or 2. For example, university level professions.
   2. At least one year of relevant work experience within the last five years and knowledge of French at level 7 (oral) and 5 (written) is required.
2. Category 2: intermediate and manual skills
   
   1. For occupations classified as FÉER 3, 4 or 5. For example, occupations requiring practical training or vocational diplomas.
   2. Two years of relevant work experience, including at least one year in Quebec, and knowledge of French at level 5 (oral) are required.
3. Category 3: regulated professions
   
   1. For professionals in fields that require specific licenses, such as health or engineering.
   2. Applicants must meet Quebec licensing requirements.
4. Category 4: Exceptional talent
   
   1. For candidates with unique skills or achievements that benefit the Québec economy, culture or society.

‍

What are the general eligibility criteria for PSTQ?

Candidates applying for permanent residency through this program must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Demonstrate the ability to financially support themselves and their family members during the first three months in Quebec.
• Obtain the Quebec and Democratic Values Learning Certification, required for all permanent immigration programs. See the practical manual.
• Hold recognized diplomas that correspond to Quebec standards and meet the experience requirements specific to their category. In some cases, internships may be considered.
• Be fluent in French. Speaking French is essential, as well as having the specific levels required according to the category. To this end, the candidate must submit supporting documents proving that he/she has this linguistic competence.

‍

Immiland's recommendations for preparing your application

Candidates for the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program should keep an eye out for updates from the provincial government because, although invitations are temporarily suspended, the success of a permanent selection application lies in having prepared the immigration profile very well and complying with the new program requirements. 

Before invitations resume no later than June 30, 2025, do the following: 

1. Identify your NOC code and FÉER/TEER category
   To do so, visit the website ofCanada's National Occupational Classification (NOC) system . There you will be able to determine the applicable PSTQ category and its requirements.
2. Check the FAIR category
   The FAIR category, represented by the second digit of your NOC code, indicates the level of education and training typically required for your occupation.
3. Update your Declaration of Interest (DOI)
   To do so, check your DOI on the Arrima portal and verify that it is up to date with accurate information about your occupation, experience and qualifications.
4. Plan your training to certify a good level of French
   If you do not yet meet the required level of French, consider enrolling in a language course or taking a recognized exam. To do so, we offer our language school, Planeta Immiland, which is focused on teaching French/English for immigration to Canada. Visit https://www.planeta-immiland-education.com/

I hope these recommendations will be useful and that you will be able to follow them in good time. Remember that being prepared can give you a competitive advantage when the process reopens in Quebec. Learn more about emigrating to Quebec.

If you still have doubts or need assistance to apply for the PSTQ, you can request an immigration appointment with our regulated consultants in Quebec: Carolina Feican or Laura Gómez. Thanks for reading, see you in the next blog!

With love,

Immiland