*Update January 12, 2021: All applications after January 25th must be submitted online. There will also be THREE new immigration pilot programs announced for workers in the health, computer, and food processing sectors. If you have experience in any of these industries, Quebec wants you!
No, there is not a provincial nominee program for Quebec. However, Quebec does have programs in place that work similarly. Currently, the provincial nominee programs are a way for skilled workers to fast track their permanent residency applications. While Quebec does not participate in this program, it does have the Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ – Québec experience program). Recently, the Quebec Government has attempted to change the rules of the PEQ and make the process more selective. This was met with a backlash by students and recent graduates in Quebec who felt that the proposed changes would directly impact them and was an unreasonable step by the government. In response to the backlash to the proposed changes, the government has not yet changed the PEQ program.
What is the Québec Experience Program (PEQ)?
The PEQ is a program that offers a fast-tracked application service to skilled workers who are already living in Quebec. A candidate has an answer in 20 business days rather than the 2-3 year wait associated with non-PEQ programs. This program is open to students studying at universities within Quebec and skilled workers already holding jobs. The Quebec Experience Program does require that you prove you have at least advanced- intermediate French skills.
Immigration to Quebec, under the PEQ, is done in two steps. You must first meet the requirements for the Quebec Selection Certificate. This certificate means that the applicant has been approved by the government of Quebec to apply for permanent settlement. Once a Quebec Selection Certificate has been awarded, the applicant can then apply for Canadian permanent residency.
As of January 12, 2021 applications for the PEQ can be submitted onlien through the Arrima platform. After January 25, 2021 all applications must be submitted through teh online process and the Quebec Ministry of Immigration will no longer accept any paper applications.
What Are the PEQ Requirements for Students and Recent Graduates?
The Quebec Experience Program is designed so that international students have the opportunity to begin their permanent residency paperwork before they have completed their studies.
Students who wish to qualify under PEQ must:
- obtain a degree/ diploma from an approved program/ school
- the degree/ diploma must be from the past 36 months
- prove the appropriate level of French language skills
- be at least 18 years old
- be residing in Quebec and intended to settle in Quebec permanently
What Are the PEQ Requirements for Foreign Workers?
The Quebec Experience program is also for foreign workers who meet specific requirements.
- Have work experience in one of the in-demand occupations in Quebec
- Be employed and maintaining legal status in Quebec at the time of application
- Meet the required level of French proficiency
Are You Interested in Immigrating to Quebec?
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VisaPlace Immigration News Contributor
Ella Bergquist
Hello! I am one of VisaPlace's many immigration news contributors. Comment below if you have any questions or comments about this article.
