Quebec Just Reopened Its Skilled Worker Program—Are You Eligible?

In a significant move for immigration hopefuls, Quebec has officially issued its first invitations under the new Skilled Worker Selection Program (Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés or PSTQ) on July 17, 2025. This development signals the province's renewed commitment to addressing labour shortages and attracting skilled individuals who can contribute meaningfully to Quebec's economy and society.

Significance of Quebec's Skilled Worker Invitations

The recent Skilled Worker invitations issued by Quebec mark a pivotal step in the province's renewed immigration strategy. By targeting candidates already residing in Quebec—especially those with strong French language skills, local educational qualifications, and experience in high-demand occupations—the province is addressing critical labour shortages while supporting smoother integration. This move also signifies the official relaunch of the revamped Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ), reinforcing Quebec’s commitment to attracting and retaining top talent through a more structured, localized, and efficient selection process.

1. Revival of the PSTQ Program

After months of inactivity since replacing the Regular Skilled Worker Program in 2024, Quebec has finally revived the PSTQ. This first round of invitations marks the reopening of a crucial immigration pathway for skilled individuals seeking permanent residency in Quebec. The program's reactivation demonstrates the government's effort to streamline talent acquisition and respond to the province's economic needs.

2. Focus on In-Demand Occupations

The latest PSTQ draw prioritizes candidates currently residing in Quebec who possess either highly specialized skills or exceptional talent. This includes those with local work experience or educational credentials and fluency in French—all factors critical for economic integration and addressing existing labour shortages.

3. Transparent, Points-Based Selection

Quebec continues to adopt a transparent, merit-based approach. For instance, Stream 1 (Highly Qualified and Specialized Skills) required a minimum of 768 points. The focus on quantifiable criteria ensures that only the most eligible and qualified candidates are selected, reinforcing the program’s credibility and fairness.

4. Boost for Francophone Integration

Language remains central to Quebec's immigration policy. Candidates in Stream 1 were expected to demonstrate oral French proficiency at level 7 or higher. This emphasis not only promotes smooth cultural integration but also aligns with the province’s mission to preserve its French linguistic heritage.

5. Encouraging Exceptional Talent

Through Stream 4, Quebec invited 22 individuals classified as having exceptional talent—primarily doctorate holders with distinguished achievements or endorsements. This underscores the province's ambition to attract innovators, researchers, and thought leaders who can drive long-term socio-economic development.

For more details on Quebec’s updated immigration policies, visit Quebec Immigration 2025: New Policies and PEQ Changes.

Breakdown of the July 17 Draw

Stream 1: Highly Qualified and Specialized Skills

• Invitations Issued: 216

• Minimum Points: 768

• Eligibility Criteria:

  • Reside in Quebec

  • Hold a Quebec-issued diploma (vocational, college, or university level)

  • Have a job in FEER category 0, 1, or 2

  • Minimum 12 months of relevant work experience in the last 5 years

  • Meet French proficiency requirements (Level 7 oral, Level 5 written)

  • Spouse (if applicable) must also demonstrate basic French skills

    
    

Stream 4: Exceptional Talent

• Invitations Issued: 22

• Eligibility Criteria:

  • Possess a postgraduate (doctoral) degree

  • Have either a partner endorsement or proof of a notable accomplishment

  • Have 3 out of 5 years’ experience in the primary field

These efforts reinforce Quebec’s priority to attract well-rounded, high-calibre professionals with local ties and long-term settlement potential.

Learn more about the program on CanadaVisa: Quebec Skilled Worker Immigration.

About the PSTQ

The PSTQ is Quebec’s revamped version of the Regular Skilled Worker Program, now with stricter and more tailored criteria to ensure applicants align with the province’s unique labour market and cultural requirements. The program consists of four streams, of which only Stream 1 and Stream 4 were activated in this round.

General Requirements Across All Streams

To qualify under the PSTQ, candidates must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Intend to settle in Quebec for work unrelated to self-owned businesses

• Possess the skills and qualifications to perform the intended job

• Sign a Financial Self-Sufficiency Contract

• Obtain an Attestation of learning Quebec’s democratic values

• Comply with scholarship return conditions, if applicable

All candidates must submit a Declaration of Interest via the Arrima portal. Submissions made before November 29, 2024, need to be updated for consideration under the PSTQ scoring system.

Interested in improving your profile? Explore guidance and updates at A2Zimmi’s Homepage.

Quebec's latest immigration draw offers hope and direction for skilled workers already in the province. Whether you're a tech professional, healthcare worker, or doctoral researcher, Quebec is signalling its readiness to welcome talent that aligns with its values and needs.

If you believe you meet the eligibility requirements for the PSTQ or want to explore other immigration pathways to Canada, schedule a consultation with A2Zimmi today: Book a Consultation.

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