Quebec just made a major change that could open new doors for skilled workers wanting to live and work in the province. On June 5, 2025, the Quebec Minister of Immigration, Jean-François Roberge, introduced a fresh immigration pathway, the Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ). This new skilled worker program replaces the older program and is already active. If you’re considering settling in Quebec permanently, the PSTQ could be your best shot—especially if you speak French or have studied or worked in the province.
Why Quebec Changed Its Immigration Program
Quebec is facing serious labour shortages across several regions and sectors. To tackle this issue more effectively, the PSTQ was created with clearer and more focused criteria. The idea is to invite people who are already contributing to Quebec society or are likely to do so in the near future.
The new system targets applicants who:
- Are currently living in Quebec
- Speak French fluently
- Have local work or study experience
- Work in occupations where Quebec urgently needs workers
This means that simply having international qualifications might not be enough, you need to prove your ties to Quebec and your readiness to integrate.
Overview of the PSTQ Streams
The PSTQ is divided into four distinct streams, each with its own focus:
| Stream | Who It’s For |
| 1. Highly Qualified & Specialized Skills | Professionals with advanced degrees and specialized work experience. |
| 2. Intermediate & Manual Skills | Skilled tradespeople and workers with mid-level expertise. |
| 3. Regulated Professions | Those in professions that require a license to work in Quebec (e.g., nurses, engineers). |
| 4. Exceptional Talent | Individuals with unique achievements or skills that benefit Quebec’s economy or culture. |
Each stream uses a point-based scoring system that factors in your education, training, work experience, French proficiency, and connections to Quebec.
What Makes the New Skilled Worker Selection Program Different from the Previous Program
The PSTQ places more importance on two major areas:
- French Language Proficiency: French is now a mandatory requirement in Streams 1, 2, and 3. This is part of Quebec’s broader plan to strengthen the French-speaking population.
- Quebec Experience: Having studied or worked in Quebec, especially outside major urban centers, now gives you a significant edge. The province is particularly interested in retaining those already integrated into local communities.
How the PSTQ Invitation System Works
The process begins with a declaration of interest submitted through Quebec’s Arrima platform. If you applied before November 29, 2024, you’ll need to update your information to be considered under the new system.
Here’s how it works:
- You submit your declaration of interest on Arrima
- Your profile is scored using the new PSTQ point system
- Invitations to apply are sent out based on your score and the needs of Quebec’s labour market
- Details of each round (number of invites, selection criteria) are posted publicly after the fact
When Do Invitations Start?
Invitations will be issued gradually starting in July 2025. The focus will initially be on candidates already in Quebec, especially those who:
- Speak fluent French
- Are employed or have studied in Quebec
- Work in sectors facing worker shortages
- Live in rural or regional areas
This targeted approach ensures that Quebec brings in people who are most likely to succeed and stay long-term. The launch of Quebec’s new Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) marks a turning point for immigration to the province. With its strong emphasis on French language skills, Quebec-based experience, and labour market alignment, the PSTQ offers a clearer, more purposeful route to permanent residence. If you’re planning to apply, make sure your declaration of interest reflects the updated criteria, especially if you’re aiming to qualify under one of the PSTQ streams.
Leave a Reply