Effected from November 25, 2023, Quebec implements new immigration pilots and policies.
These changes include a range of actions and policy adjustments that impact several immigration streams in Quebec. Keep yourself updated on these developments and be aware of how they might affect you. Examine how Quebec’s new immigration rules and pilots might impact your immigration journey.
Quebec implements new immigration pilots and policies – New economic pilot streams are now accessible
In an effort to address the severe labor shortage in the province, Quebec has announced the revival of three long-standing economic immigration pilot projects. Applications for these initiatives will be accepted from November 23, 2023, through December 31, 2024. Eligible applicants may actively submit their applications for the following immigration streams during this time:
Quebec introduces a permanent immigration pilot program catering to workers in food processing with a cap of 600 applications. Quebec implements another permanent immigration pilot program specifically for orderlies, with a cap of 600 applications. Additionally, Quebec launches a third permanent immigration pilot program targeting workers in the artificial intelligence, information technologies, and visual effects sectors, allowing for 700 applications. Although these programs periodically open and close to applicant submissions, it is important to note that all three projects are expected to end permanently on January 1, 2026.
Economic programs
Major adjustments to Quebec’s economic immigration schemes in the near future will now require fluency in French as a qualification. According to the Quebec scale of French proficiency levels, applicants for the Quebec Experience Program and the Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) will now need to meet a minimum language competency level of 7 in spoken French. Moreover, this level 7 language competency criterion applies to other economic and pilot initiatives as well, creating a standard criteria for talented people who want to come to Quebec as permanent residents.
Furthermore, additional amendments to Quebec’s immigration regulations involve the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), now stipulating a written French proficiency requirement of level 5 or higher, aligning with established standards. Notably, commencing on November 23rd, candidates applying for the graduate segment of the PEQ must have completed a program in French or undertaken a minimum of three years of secondary or post-secondary education in the language.
For spouses sponsored through these economic programs, a level 4 proficiency in oral French—equivalent to a proficiency level 4 in speaking and listening—is obligatory.
Finally, a pivotal change unfolds on November 29, as the Qualified Skilled Worker Selection Program (QWSP) steps in to replace the QWSP.
Family sponsorship
A significant change affecting those sponsored for immigration to Quebec under a family sponsorship scheme takes effect on November 23rd. If the sponsored person is between the ages of 18 and 55, the sponsoring person is now required to complete and sign a welcome and integration plan.
With the help of this plan, the sponsored person will receive all-encompassing support that includes help getting ready for their arrival in Quebec, facilitating access to public services and resources that are essential for integration, and supporting their language learning efforts in French.
Additional modifications
Together with the aforementioned modifications, Quebec has made additional changes to its corporate immigration streams, which will come into effect on January 1st, 2024.
The changes primarily require French competence for all business streams, which include the Entrepreneur, Self-Employed, and Investor programs. Notable extra modifications include stricter residency requirements, the implementation of a work permit requirement. And other tweaks intended to improve Quebec’s commercial immigration procedures.
Quebec implements new immigration pilots and policies – Migration to Quebec
Among all Canadian provinces, Quebec boasts the highest degree of autonomy when overseeing the yearly influx of skilled workers and immigrants. This autonomy is granted by the Quebec-Canada Accord, allowing the province significant control with minimal federal supervision. The Quebec-Canada Accord grants the province significant autonomy over programs and policies while imposing little federal supervision.
Quebec has revealed its immigration goals, which are in line with the federal immigration strategy of Canada. The province plans to accept at least 49,500 foreigners this year, with an extra 50,000 expected in 2024 and 2025. Similar to the federal plan, Quebec’s immigration policy primarily centers on economic measures. Each year between 2023 and 2025, Quebec will reserve over 32,000 seats for new foreign skilled workers.
Beyond its own immigration jurisdiction, Quebec has a significant impact that highlights the importance of Francophone immigration in Canada as a whole. This campaign demonstrates the province’s dedication to advancing the immigration of French-speaking people across the nation, a group of immigrants that is becoming more and more well-known. As well as, the initiatives taken by Quebec highlight the larger influence that the province hopes to have in promoting a prosperous Francophone population outside of its borders.
Explore your pathway to move to Canada with Immigtoronto. Our team of skilled RCICs offers customized immigration solutions, ensuring a trustworthy and professional process. Contact us at [email protected]
