AbdullaiHave you ever had the desire to start over somewhere new, where there are plenty of job options available at arrival?
You may have pondered how your qualifications and experience might pave a path for you to live and work overseas.
The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) was created to offer an opportunity that can change the lives of many skilled professionals like you.
And if you have previously worked as a qualified healthcare worker, IT specialist, or engineer, you can apply for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Quebec Skilled Worker Program, from eligibility criteria to how you can maximize your chances of success.
What is the Quebec Skilled Worker Program all about?
The Quebec government launched the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) as an immigration initiative to draw in qualified professionals to the Canadian city.
Because it functions independently, the Quebec Skilled Worker Program differs from the Federal Express Entry System in that it enables Quebec to choose eligible applicants on its own, according to its unique labor market demands and cultural norms.
The program uses a point-based system to assess applicants based on a number of criteria, including age, work experience, education, language proficiency, and adaptability.
Successful candidates will also receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), which allows them to apply to the federal immigration authorities for permanent residence in Canada.
How Does the Quebec Skilled Worker Program Differ From the Federal Programs?
Canada’s Express Entry system is a federal program that is widely known; however, the Quebec Skilled Worker Program is also unique in its own ways.
The following are what differentiate it from the popularly known program:
- The Quebec Skilled Worker Program has its criteria and processes for selecting qualified candidates, unlike the federal program. The Quebec government chooses candidates that align with their economic needs.
- Secondly, while applying for the QSWP, there is no need for an express entry profile, which you are required to have while applying for the federal programs.
- Lastly, the program allows you to include your family when applying for the program. The program gives you the chance to include your spouse and children, granting permanent residence to the entire family once accepted into the program.
Eligibility for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
The QSWP is a point-based system as explained earlier. You will need a minimum of 50 points depending on how you are graded if you are applying alone.
However, if you are applying with your spouse and children or common-law partner, you will need a minimum of 59 points to be accepted into the program.
So what are the things that will earn you such points?
1. Education
Education alone has a maximum of 26 points when applying for the QSWP. Your education category matters a lot in earning points, which alone can earn you up to 14 points depending on your relevance and level of your degree or diploma. For instance, if you have a doctorate, you will be awarded 14 points.
The remaining points are then allocated to the area of training based on whether your qualifications align with the in-demand fields in Quebec.
2. Work Experience
Your work experience matters a lot if you want to earn more points. People with longer work histories tend to be awarded higher points, unlike people with shorter work histories.
Your work experience alone can earn up to 8 points, whether paid or unpaid, gained within 5 years preceding the application.
For instance, if you have work experience of less than 6 months, you are earning 0 points, but if you have experience of 4 years or more, you will be awarded the maximum point for work experience, which is 8 points.
3. Language Proficiency
Another factor that can guarantee you the overall points for you to be granted into the program is language proficiency.
Proficiency in French is a major factor in the QSWP that can earn you up to 16 points, as the province values people who can integrate effortlessly into its French-speaking societies.
However, there is still hope if you are good in English because it alone can also earn you up to 6 points, which is a total of 22 points if you are good at both. You will be tested for language proficiency, and the accepted language tests include the Test de Connaissance du français (TCF) for French and IELTS for English.
4. Age
Your age is another determinant that can influence your points. Age alone has a maximum of 16 points in total.
The younger you are, the higher your points, because the Quebec government believes that the younger you are, the more you are expected to contribute to Quebec’s workforce for a longer time.
5. Adaptability
If you have a previous connection to Quebec, you can also be awarded extra points for your ability to integrate into the province. This includes past work or study experience in Quebec, as well as having family members residing in the province.
For instance, if you have family in Quebec, you can earn up to 3 points, while if you have previous work or study experience in Quebec, or long-term visits, you can earn up to 5 points.
So, once you meet up with the minimum points threshold as stated earlier, which varies based on the factors outlined above, you can go on to apply for the QSWP.
How to Apply for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
The first step in applying for the QSWP is to start by using Quebec’s online calculator to estimate your points based on the selection criteria, such as your age, education, and language proficiency, among others. If you notice you meet up with the estimated point, then you can go on with the next step.
Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest
Once you have checked and confirmed your eligibility, the next step is for you to submit an expression of interest. You can do this by creating a profile on the Arrima portal and providing details about your education, work experience, and skills.
After creation, the profiles are then ranked based on labor market needs, with top-ranking candidates receiving invitations to apply for the CQS (I will explain better about it later in this article).
Step 3: Invitation to Apply for CSQ
Next, you will receive an invitation to apply for the CSQ via the email address you used to register for the Arrima portal once your article has been ranked and you have been chosen as the top-ranked individual. Depending on demand, the CSQ application process normally takes 6–12 months and costs CAD 844.
Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents
After receiving the invitation, you will be asked to submit supporting documents such as educational credentials, proof of work experience, and language test results, among other things.
Step 5: Apply for Permanent Residence
Once the paperwork has been successfully submitted, you will need to pay CAD 1,365 to apply for permanent residence with the federal government. This stage involves medical and background checks. To apply for permanent residence with the federal government, it typically takes an additional 15–20 months to be processed.
Common Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ)?
The Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) is an important document that confirms that a candidate has been chosen by Quebec for immigration. Without the CSQ, you cannot apply for permanent residence in Canada. Once the CSQ is issued, the applicant proceeds to the federal stage, where they undergo medical and security checks before receiving permanent residence.
2. What Are the In-Demand Occupations in Quebec?
Quebec regularly updates its list of in-demand professions to address labor market shortages yearly. Currently, high-demand sectors include Information Technology (software developers, IT analysts, and cybersecurity professionals), Healthcare (nurses, medical technologists, and pharmacists), and Engineering (civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers).
3. Can I Apply for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program without a Job Offer?
Yes, you can apply for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) without a job offer. However, having a job offer can increase your chances of being selected, as it provides additional points in the selection process.
3. Is IELTS required for Quebec?
Yes, IELTS (General Training) is accepted for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) if you are applying in English. However, Quebec prioritizes French, and proficiency in French, proven through tests like Test d’évaluation de français, may improve your chances of selection.
Final Thoughts
In summary, if you are considering leaving your home as a professional in your field to start somewhere else with your family fresh and new, Quebec might be the best option for you if you meet the requirements listed in this article.
The process is simple and straightforward; however, its major downside might be the language barriers and the difficulty of navigating the challenging immigration processes. Apart from that, there is not much you are expected to do.
Abdullai