Canada: Québec Skilled Worker Program Reopens with New Rules — Apply Today

After a months-long pause, Québec has officially resumed its intake of skilled workers under the Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ) starting July 2025.

The relaunch, confirmed via a ministerial order published in the Gazette officielle du Québec, marks the end of the pause that began when the previous system was suspended in October 2024.

While the PSTQ was technically introduced on November 29, 2024, its launch was delayed until now. From July 2025, the province will begin issuing invitations again, starting with candidates who already live in Québec and match the province’s labour needs.

What Is Québec’s Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)?

The Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ) is Québec’s main pathway for skilled immigrants seeking permanent residence in the province. It replaces the previous Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ) and is designed to better align with Québec’s labour market demands.

The program uses a points-based system to rank applicants based on education, professional experience, French language proficiency, and connection to Québec (such as studies or work experience in the province).

Who Can Apply for the PSTQ?

The PSTQ is open to foreign nationals with:

• Relevant work experience in Québec’s in-demand sectors
• French language skills
• Education or work history in Québec (preferred but not mandatory)
• A valid profile in Québec’s Arrima portal

Applicants will fall into one of the following four streams:

1. Highly Qualified and Specialised Skills
2. Intermediate and Manual Skills
3. Regulated Professions
4. Exceptional Talent

Each stream has its own selection criteria, with a strong focus on French language ability, especially in the first three streams.

How the New Selection System Works

Québec’s new points-based system ranks profiles based on:

• Education and training
• Work experience (particularly in Québec)
• Professional responsibilities
• French proficiency
• Occupation in demand

Candidates who submitted a profile before November 29, 2024, must now update their information to be eligible under the new rules.

Key Updates: What’s New in 2025?

• Gradual Invitations: Invitations to apply for permanent residence will roll out throughout July, starting with individuals already living in Québec.
• Priority Candidates: Those who are fluent in French, have studied or worked in Québec, or are employed in high-demand occupations will be prioritised.
• Updated Scoring System: Applications are ranked using a structured points system, rewarding local experience and language proficiency.

How to Apply for the PSTQ (Step-by-Step)

1. Submit a Declaration of Interest: Use the government’s Arrima portal to create and submit your profile.
2. Update Your Profile: If you submitted your declaration before November 29, 2024, update your information to match the new PSTQ criteria.
3. Wait for an Invitation: Only candidates with the highest scores and who meet the stream-specific requirements will receive invitations to apply for permanent residence.
4. Submit your permanent residence application within the deadline if invited

Documents Required

To apply through the PSTQ, you’ll typically need:

• Passport and ID documents
• Proof of education (degrees, transcripts)
• Work experience letters and references
• French language test results (TEF, TCF, etc.)
• Québec diploma or proof of in-province work/study (if applicable)
• Updated Arrima profile
• Résumé or CV

Additional documents may be required depending on the specific stream and your personal circumstances.

What’s Different This Time?

• More weight on Québec-specific qualifications like local diplomas and work experience
• French fluency is now a key factor for most streams
• Invitations will be issued gradually throughout July
• The first wave targets residents already living in Québec

Final Thoughts

If you’re a skilled professional looking to move to Québec, now is the time to revisit your application. The newly reopened PSTQ is tailored to prioritise French-speaking talent and candidates who can contribute to Québec’s labour market, especially outside major cities.

Update your Arrima profile, ensure your documents are ready, and consider seeking expert advice to boost your chances. With a strong application and the right stream, you could be on your way to permanent residency in one of Canada’s most culturally unique provinces.