Quebec Holds First Skilled Worker Draw for Intermediate and Manual Skills Stream – 273 Invited

On July 31, 2025, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration (MIFI) issued 273 invitations under the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ), specifically targeting the Intermediate and Manual Skills stream for the first time.

This marks a significant step in Quebec’s immigration system, which recently shifted from the Regular Skilled Worker Program to the PSTQ. By opening the door to workers in FEER categories 3, 4, and 5, the province is recognizing the vital role that skilled trades and manual occupations play in filling labour shortages.

Eligibility requirements for this draw included:

• A minimum score of 661 points in the Arrima system.
• Residence outside the Montreal Metropolitan Community.
• At least 24 months of work experience in the past five years, including 12 months in Quebec in the candidate’s main occupation.

Candidates were selected from the Arrima expression of interest pool on July 28, 2025, at 8:00 a.m.

The Intermediate and Manual Skills stream is designed for foreign nationals in trades and practical jobs who meet language and education standards. Applicants must demonstrate at least French level 5 proficiency in speaking and listening (and level 4 for spouses). In addition, they need a recognized diploma equivalent to Quebec’s high school or vocational education credentials.

This is the third PSTQ draw since its launch in July 2025. Quebec previously invited 238 candidates in the Highly Qualified and Specialized Skills stream and the Exceptional Talent stream on July 17, 2025.

By expanding invitations to include manual and intermediate workers, Quebec is signaling its intention to balance its labour market strategy—valuing both specialized professionals and hands-on skilled workers equally.

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