Quebec Begins Issuing Invitations Under New Skilled Worker Selection Program

On July 17, 2025, Quebec issued its first invitations under the new Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) — marking the official launch of this immigration pathway after its initial introduction in 2024.

This draw focused on candidates already living in Quebec, with priority given to those who:

• Speak French
• Hold Quebec education credentials
• Are employed in high-demand occupations

Streams Targeted in This Round

Quebec selected candidates under two PSTQ streams:

Stream 1: Highly Qualified and Specialized Skills

• 216 candidates were invited.
• Minimum required score: 768 points
• Eligibility included:
  • Residence in Quebec
  • Diploma from a Quebec university, college, or vocational institution
  • Occupation in FEER categories 0, 1, or 2
  • At least 12 months of experience in the primary occupation within the last 5 years
  • French proficiency: Oral level 7, Written level 5 (or equivalent)
  • Spouse (if applicable) must have French oral proficiency at level 4

Stream 4: Exceptional Talent

• 22 candidates were invited.
• Candidates were required to:
  • Hold a PhD
  • Have at least 3 years of work experience in their primary field (within the last 5 years)
  • Provide either:
    • A positive opinion from a Ministère partner, or
    • A recognized exceptional achievement listed by the Ministry of Immigration

Background on the PSTQ

The Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) replaced the former Regular Skilled Worker Program in 2024, but no invitations had been issued until now.

To be eligible for the PSTQ, candidates must:

• Be 18 years or older
• Intend to work in Quebec (not in a company they own or in a restricted industry)
• Submit a declaration of interest through Arrima
• Sign a Financial Self-Sufficiency Contract
• Obtain an Attestation of Learning of Quebec Values
• Comply with any return requirements from Quebec-sponsored scholarships

Candidates must also update any declarations submitted before November 29, 2024, as the PSTQ scoring system now applies.

Invitations are issued to those with high-ranking scores who meet the stream-specific criteria.

For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!