Immigration Corner | Quebec’s permanent immigration programmes

Dear Miss Powell,

I have been trying to find jobs in Ontario without success. I am thinking of accepting a job in Quebec and wondered about programmes that are available in Quebec to become a permanent resident. Looking forward to your response.

BH

Dear BH,

Quebec has its own unique immigration system with strict French language requirements. The province has recently relaunched three immigration pilot programmes to help address labour shortages in specific industries. I will outline the recently launched pilot programmes and the other pathways to permanent residence.

WORKERS IN TECHNOLOGY, AI, AND VISUAL EFFECTS

The Permanent Immigration Pilot Programme is for workers in the artificial intelligence (AI), information technology (IT), or visual effects sectors. To qualify, you must have a college diploma or higher education, have a minimum of two years of full-time experience in AI, or a related field, and the position must be classified under TEER (Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities) 0, 1, or 2 in the National Occupational Classification.

You must provide proof that you have full-time employment in Quebec’s AI sector, with a salary of at least $75,000 if you are working outside of Montreal and $100,000 if within Montreal. Additionally, you must provide an expert committee’s opinion confirming that the position matches your qualifications.

There are two application tracks based on language proficiency. The Francophone profile requires a minimum French language proficiency of level 7 on the Quebec Scale of Competency Levels, which can be demonstrated through a recognised language test or academic records. Alternatively, the Francization profile involves a commitment to learning French after selection through integration services.

PERMANENT IMMIGRATION PILOT PROGRAMME FOR FOOD-PROCESSING WORKERS

This programme targets workers in the food-manufacturing and beverage-manufacturing sectors. To qualify under this programme, you must have a minimum of a secondary school diploma or a professional studies diploma from Quebec. This certification must be through a minimum of a one-year full-time study programme in Quebec. Additionally, you must hold an eligible full-time job in the required sector in Quebec and have 24 months of eligible, full-time work experience in Quebec within the 36 months preceding application. You must also demonstrate knowledge of spoken French at level 7 on the Quebec Scale of Competency Levels or its equivalent.

PERMANENT IMMIGRATION PILOT PROGRAM FOR BENEFICIARY ATTENDANTS

Quebec’s healthcare system has a high demand for patient-support workers. To meet the increasing demand for these professionals, Quebec introduced the Permanent Immigration Pilot Programme for Beneficiary Attendants.

This programme provides a direct pathway to permanent residency for qualified attendants. The programme includes two main streams: the Work Component and the Work-Study Component. The Work Component requires at least 24 months of full-time experience as a beneficiary attendant while the Work-Study Component is designed for those who have earned a vocational studies diploma in Quebec and have at least 12 months of full-time work experience after graduation.

Applicants must prove financial independence and demonstrate French proficiency at a minimum Level 7 on the Quebec Scale of Competency. The programme will accept up to 600 applications until December 31, 2025.

QUEBEC SKILLED WORKER PROGRAMME

In addition to these pilot programmes, there are other ways to obtain permanent residence in Quebec. One of the most popular options is via the Quebec Skilled Worker Programme. This programme is designed for skilled workers who can qualify based on factors such as education, work experience, age, language proficiency, and adaptability. They must also demonstrate their intention to settle in Quebec and have sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their family members. This programme is like the Federal Express Entry System.

QUEBEC EXPERIENCE PROGRAM

Another option is the Quebec Experience Program. This programme is for foreign workers and international students who have already lived in Quebec and have gained work experience or completed studies in the province. Applicants must demonstrate advanced intermediate knowledge of oral French and meet other specific requirements based on their status as a foreign worker or graduate.

QUEBEC BUSINESS IMMIGRATION PROGRAMME

The Quebec Business Immigration Programme provides pathways for entrepreneurs, investors, and self-employed workers.

Entrepreneur Programme: This is for those looking to start or acquire a business in Quebec and requires a minimum net worth.

Investor Programme: This is designed for individuals making a passive investment and requires a minimum net worth and a five-year term investment through an authorised financial intermediary.

FAMILY SPONSORSHIP

If you have close family in Quebec, family reunification is another way to obtain permanent residence. Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their close family members, such as spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents, to become permanent residents of Canada. Sponsors must meet specific requirements, including demonstrating their ability to financially support the sponsored family members.

Quebec offers various pathways to permanent residence in 2025, including new pilot programmes for skilled workers in AI, IT, and visual effects, as well as options for skilled workers, business immigrants, and family reunification. If you require assistance to decide on the best programme for you, I suggest that you schedule a consultation with a Canadian lawyer to assist you further.

Deidre S. Powell is a lawyer, mediator and notary public. You may connect with her via Facebook, Whatsapp or telephone 613-695-8777. You may also request a Zoom/telephone consultation.