Canada has quietly made a powerful shift in immigration policy—and it could open the door for thousands of skilled workers waiting for their chance to settle in Quebec. If you hold a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) but live outside the province or even overseas, the Quebec International Mobility Program Plus (IMP+) Open Work Permit might be your golden opportunity.
This initiative gives eligible CSQ holders a direct route to work in Quebec without the usual requirement of a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). It’s part of Canada’s broader effort to address labour shortages and streamline the immigration journey for qualified workers.
Let’s break down what this means and how you can take advantage of it.
What is the Quebec International Mobility Program Plus (IMP+) Open Work Permit?
Launched under ministerial instructions on May 24, 2022, the International Mobility Program Plus (IMP+) allows certain foreign nationals—who already hold a CSQ but live outside Quebec—to apply for an LMIA-exempt open work permit. Here’s the catch: you must intend to live and work in Quebec, even if you currently live in another Canadian province or abroad.
This work permit is coded under A76, and it opens a temporary work window for CSQ holders while they wait for their permanent residency to be finalized.
Who is Eligible?
To apply under this stream, you must meet all of the following:
- Hold a valid CSQ
- Either not yet applied for permanent residency OR
- Already applied before CSQ expiration, and PR application is still in process
- Reside outside Quebec at the time of application (either overseas or in another Canadian province)
- Apply online using an IRCC Secure Account (exceptions apply for paper applications)
- Receive an official letter of invitation from the Quebec government to apply under IMP+ (A76)
- Show proof that you intend to live and work in Quebec
Note: Applicants who currently reside in Quebec do not qualify under this specific stream.
What Documents Are Required?
Depending on your situation, you may need to prepare the following:
| Document Type | Description |
| CSQ | Must be valid at the time of application |
| Letter of Invitation | Issued by Quebec’s Ministry (MIFI) |
| Proof of Intent to Reside in Quebec | Lease agreements, job offers, etc. |
| PR Application Proof (if submitted) | Acknowledgement of Receipt, Approval in Principle, or X/E number |
| Proof of residency outside Quebec | Required for in-Canada applicants (e.g., lease, CRA assessments) |
Make sure to upload all supporting documents under the “Client Information” section of your application.
Important: Application Cap and Timing
Canada has set a strict annual cap of 7,350 applications under code A76. Once the cap is hit, all extra applications are refused or returned, even if fully complete. That’s why timing is critical. Once you receive your letter of invitation, submit your application as soon as possible.
If your application is accepted under the cap, you can receive a 3-year open work permit (or until your passport expires).
How Does the Processing Work?
Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
- In-Canada applicants use form IMM 5710
- Outside-Canada applicants use form IMM 1295
- Applications are processed by specific IRCC networks based on your location
- If approved, the permit will state:
- City: Quebec NES
- NOC: 99999 (Open)
- Employer: Open
- Province: Quebec
- Work location will be restricted to Quebec only
Applications made at the port of entry will be automatically refused.
Family Members? They’re Covered Too!
Family members of the principal applicant (spouses, partners, and dependent children) may also qualify for open work permits, but their documents will also be restricted to Quebec.
Depending on your PR status, codes C41, C46, or C49 may apply for your family’s work permits.
Why This Matters for Immigration to Quebec
With growing labour demands and a unique immigration process, Quebec is using this tool to ensure qualified candidates don’t get lost in the system. The Quebec IMP+ Open Work Permit bridges the gap between selection and settlement, making it easier for skilled workers to establish themselves quickly while awaiting PR. If you hold a CSQ and live outside Quebec, this is your chance to get one step closer to living and working in one of Canada’s most culturally rich and economically vibrant provinces.
The Quebec IMP+ Open Work Permit gives CSQ holders outside Quebec a faster path to employment, income, and settlement. But act quickly—space is limited, and demand is growing.
Make sure you meet the eligibility, gather your documents, and submit your application before the annual cap is reached. This small window could be your big opportunity to build your future in Quebec. Contact ImmigCanada for further support and guidance!
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