Quebec has relaunched its Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) as of August 5, 2025, after a pause for redesign. The province aims to better match immigration with labor market needs, focusing on French language skills and experience in Quebec. This move is part of a larger immigration policy overhaul announced in mid-2025, which seeks to manage the number of newcomers and support Quebec’s economic and social goals.
The Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) announced on June 5, 2025, that the PSTQ would reopen, with new invitations to apply for permanent selection starting in July 2025. Only candidates who submitted or updated their Arrima portal profiles on or after November 29, 2024, are eligible for these invitations. This date marks the start of the new PSTQ rules.
Invitation Rounds and Numbers
The first round of invitations under the new Skilled Worker Selection Program took place on July 17, 2025. In this round, 216 candidates were invited under Stream 1, which targets highly qualified and specialized workers. Additional invitations went to Stream 4, which is for exceptional talent. A second draw on July 24, 2025, issued 238 invitations, again focusing on highly skilled and exceptional candidates. These early rounds show Quebec’s strong interest in attracting top talent who can fill key roles in the local economy.
Start of new PSTQ rules; previous program (PRTQ) replaced
Announcement of PSTQ reopening
PSTQ relaunched
First round of invitations under new PSTQ
Second round of invitations under new PSTQ
Program Structure and Streams
The redesigned PSTQ now has four streams to cover a wide range of labor market needs:
- Highly Qualified and Specialized Skills (TEER 0–2 occupations): For candidates with advanced skills and experience in high-demand jobs.
- Intermediate and Manual Skills: For those with skills in trades and manual work.
- Regulated Professions in Quebec: For people working in jobs that require special licenses or certification in Quebec.
- Exceptional Talent: For candidates with outstanding achievements or unique skills.
This structure allows Quebec to select workers who can help fill shortages in many different sectors, from technology to skilled trades.
Scoring System and Selection Criteria
The new points grid for the Skilled Worker Selection Program scores candidates out of 1,400 points. The system gives the most weight to three main areas:
- Human Capital (up to 520 points): This includes French language skills (up to 200 points), age (up to 120 points for those aged 20–30), education (up to 130 points), and recent skilled work experience (up to 70 points).
- Response to Quebec Needs (up to 700 points): Points are awarded for having a Quebec diploma (up to 200 points), Quebec work experience (up to 160 points), employment outside Montréal (up to 50 points), and working in jobs where there are shortages (up to 120 points).
- Adaptation Factors (up to 180 points): These include a spouse’s French skills, time spent in Quebec regions, non-degree studies in Quebec, and having relatives in the province.
This scoring system rewards candidates who are most likely to settle and succeed in Quebec, especially those who already have ties to the province.
French Language Requirement
French language skills are now mandatory for Streams 1 to 3. Candidates must show results from approved language tests, such as TEF Canada, TCF Canada, DELF, or DALF. For example, those applying under Stream 1 must show at least level 7 in spoken French and level 5 in written French on the Échelle québécoise des niveaux de compétence en français. This requirement supports Quebec’s goal of keeping French as the main language in the province.
Eligibility Focus
The Skilled Worker Selection Program now gives priority to candidates who already live in Quebec, especially those with Quebec diplomas or work experience. French-speaking applicants also have a clear advantage. This focus helps Quebec integrate newcomers more easily and fill local labor shortages. Candidates from outside Quebec or those without strong French skills will find it harder to qualify under the new rules.
Broader Immigration Policy Context (2024-2025)
Quebec’s recent immigration policy changes go beyond the Skilled Worker Selection Program. The province has set new targets for 2026-2029, aiming to reduce both temporary and permanent immigration levels. For example, the number of temporary foreign workers under Quebec’s control is set to drop from 72,000 to 65,000 over four years, with a 50% reduction planned for Montreal. The government also plans to give priority to temporary residents already in Quebec when granting permanent residence.
Some programs have been suspended as part of this strategy. The Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ) for workers and graduates is on hold until November 30, 2025. The Program for Refugees Abroad (Collective Sponsorship) will not accept new applications until December 31, 2027. These pauses allow Quebec to manage the number of newcomers and update its programs.
New draft regulations also propose stricter French language requirements for foreign workers who want to renew their work permits. There will also be more oversight of international students. While these changes aim to help newcomers settle and find work, they may make it harder for some foreign workers and students to stay in Quebec.
Practical Implications for Applicants and Employers
For applicants, it is now essential to update Arrima profiles after November 29, 2024, to be considered for invitations. French language skills and Quebec experience are more important than ever. Those without these advantages may find it difficult to qualify. The points system encourages candidates to gain local education or work experience before applying.
For employers, the new Skilled Worker Selection Program means a greater focus on hiring French-speaking candidates and those with experience in Quebec. With lower immigration targets and stricter rules, the labor market may tighten, making it harder to find workers in some fields. Employers may need to help candidates improve their French or look for other immigration options during program suspensions.
Expert Analysis and Perspectives
Immigration experts see Quebec’s relaunch of the Skilled Worker Selection Program as a way to better match newcomers with the province’s needs. The focus on French and local experience is expected to help newcomers settle and stay in Quebec. However, some warn that stricter rules and lower intake could make labor shortages worse in some sectors if not managed carefully.
Business groups and immigrant advocacy organizations have raised concerns about the suspension of popular programs like the PEQ and the new language requirements. They urge the government to find a balance between helping newcomers settle and meeting the province’s economic needs. As reported by VisaVerge.com, many stakeholders believe that keeping Quebec competitive will require ongoing adjustments to immigration policy.
Historical Background and Program Evolution
The PSTQ replaced the previous Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ) on November 29, 2024. The change included a pause in invitations so that Quebec could redesign the program’s selection criteria and scoring system. The goal was to better reflect the province’s labor market needs and demographic goals.
The Arrima portal remains the main way for candidates to submit their interest and be considered for invitations under the Skilled Worker Selection Program. You can access the Arrima portal here.
Future Outlook and Pending Developments
Quebec’s immigration proposals for 2026-2029 are still under public consultation as of mid-2025. These proposals may include further reductions in immigration and new rules for temporary residents and international students. The government plans to keep refining the Skilled Worker Selection Program and other immigration programs to make sure they match the province’s needs.
Applicants and employers should watch for official updates on program criteria, invitation rounds, and new regulations. Staying informed is key to making the most of Quebec’s changing immigration landscape.
Official Resources and Contact Information
For the most up-to-date information on the Skilled Worker Selection Program and other immigration programs in Quebec, visit the official MIFI website. The site offers details on eligibility, application steps, and contact information for further questions.
Takeaways and Next Steps
- For applicants: Focus on improving French language skills and gaining Quebec work or study experience. Update your Arrima profile to meet new requirements.
- For employers: Plan for a tighter labor market and support candidates in meeting language and experience requirements.
- For all stakeholders: Monitor official announcements and be ready to adapt to further changes in Quebec’s immigration policy.
Quebec’s Skilled Worker Selection Program relaunch marks a major shift in how the province selects and supports newcomers. By focusing on French language and local experience, Quebec aims to build a workforce that can thrive and stay in the province for the long term.
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