On April 29, 2024, Quebec introduced a significant change to its Quebec Graduates stream of the Quebec Experience Program. This article provides an overview of the new French study requirement, its implications for aspiring immigrants, and the conditions applicants must meet to qualify.
Understanding the French Study Requirement
Effective November 23, 2024, Quebec graduates seeking permanent residency through the Quebec Experience Program must have completed their studies in French. This policy shift, announced last year, aims to promote the French language among students and graduates, aligning with Quebec’s commitment to linguistic and cultural preservation.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible under the new requirement, applicants must fulfill one of two criteria:
- Completion of an eligible program where at least 75% of courses or credits were conducted in French, ensuring proficiency in a French-speaking environment.
- Completion of three years of full-time secondary or post-secondary studies in French, either in Quebec or abroad.
Conditions for Quebec Graduates
Applicants must meet several general and specific conditions to qualify for the Quebec Experience Program:
- General Conditions: Applicants must intend to settle in Quebec, be at least 18 years old, demonstrate proficiency in spoken and written French, be legally present in Quebec during the application process, and exhibit financial self-sufficiency.
- Specific Conditions: Applicants must have obtained an eligible diploma within the last 36 months from a Quebec educational institution, completed the diploma in a full-time program of study, and resided in Quebec for at least half of the program’s duration.
Eligible Diplomas
The Quebec Experience Program recognizes various diplomas, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as diplomas of college studies and vocational training.
Exclusions and Notices
Certain conditions render applicant’s ineligible for the Quebec Experience Program, such as having a bursary with a return clause to their home country or residing in Quebec for less than half the duration of their study program.
Post-Graduation Work Opportunities
Graduates can obtain a post-graduation work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to work for various employers in Quebec. Additionally, they may be hired by a Quebec employer under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
Spousal Work Permit and Selection Interview
Spouses of applicants may also qualify for an open work permit under specific conditions and can apply for permanent selection in the Quebec Experience Program. Applicants may undergo a selection interview to verify the accuracy of their application information. Quebec’s new French study requirement reflects its commitment to linguistic and cultural preservation while promoting the integration of immigrants into French-speaking communities. Aspiring immigrants should carefully review the eligibility criteria and program conditions outlined by the Quebec Experience Program to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
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