Quebec Reopens Immigration Programs For Skilled Workers With Pathway To Permanent Residency

Quebec has reopened its immigration pilot programs, providing skilled workers in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Information Technology (IT), and Visual Effects industries with an excellent pathway to permanent residency. These initiatives, originally launched in 2021, aim to combat labor shortages in these high-demand sectors.

Programs Now Accepting Applications

The Quebec Immigration Service announced that these programs are now open to applications. They are tailored to attract talented professionals with the necessary qualifications and experience to support Quebec’s workforce demands.

Who is Eligible?

To qualify for these immigration pilot programs, applicants must meet the following general requirements:

Be at least 18 years old.
Demonstrate financial independence.
Plan to settle and work in Quebec in an eligible sector.
Not work for a business they directly or indirectly control.

Stream-Specific Requirements

Artificial Intelligence Stream

Applicants need at least two years of full-time experience in AI or related fields under categories FÉER 0, 1, or 2 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
Quebec graduates holding a master’s or doctoral degree in AI are also eligible.
Candidates must secure full-time employment in Quebec’s AI sector with minimum salaries of:
- $75,000 outside Montreal.
- $100,000 within Montreal.
A positive expert opinion confirming job relevance to qualifications is mandatory.

Information Technology and Visual Effects Stream

Applicants must have at least two years of relevant work experience and a technical college diploma or higher.
They should meet salary thresholds within the 9th decile of their profession’s wage scale.
Working in ineligible sectors or controlling their own businesses disqualifies candidates.

Language Proficiency Options

The programs offer two pathways for language proficiency:

Francophone Profile
- Requires French proficiency at level 7 on the Quebec Scale of Competency Levels.
- Proficiency can be demonstrated through recognized language tests or academic records.
Francization Profile
- Involves a commitment to learning French after selection, supported by Quebec’s integration services.

Excluded Sectors

Certain industries, such as payday loans, pawnshops, and adult entertainment, are excluded. Applicants with work experience in these sectors will not be eligible for the programs.

How to Apply

For the AI stream, applicants must provide a positive opinion from an expert committee verifying their role aligns with their qualifications.
Note: A positive opinion does not guarantee a Quebec Selection Certificate.

To explore full eligibility details and begin the application process, visit the official Quebec Immigration website.