Are you planning to migrate to Quebec soon? Well, this blog is a must-read for you because new immigration pilots and policy changes are to come into effect in Quebec. Keep reading for complete information.
New Economic Immigration Initiatives
Commencing from the 23rd of November, 2023, to the 31st of December, 2024, Quebec is running three long-term economic immigration pilot programmes aimed at addressing the labour shortage. These comprise programmes for the following jobs:
- Food processing workers: 600 applications
- Orderlies: 600 applications
- Workers in AI, IT, and VFX sectors:700 applications
These programmes will cease by January 1, 2026.
Enhanced Language Requirements
The language requirement has been imposed on all of Quebec’s economic immigration programmes. A minimum level 7 spoken French is mandatory for the QSWP and PEQ. In addition, PEQ requires level 5 in written French. Consequently, in the economic programmes, level 4 spousal language criteria are applied to spouses. Moreover, the QSWP will change into the Qualified Skilled Worker Selection Programme (QWSP) on November 29.
Family Sponsorship Adjustments
In addition, for family sponsorship programmes, sponsors of immigrants aged 18-55 must develop a welcoming and integration plan where these new arrivals are assisted with adjusting to the Quebec lifestyle, accessing public services, and learning French.
Business Immigration Stream Revisions
From the first day of January 2024, French language skills will become mandatory for any stream in the Investor, Self-Employed and Entrepreneur programme. Along with these additional rules, there are further stipulations for residency and work permits.
Quebec’s Unique Immigration Position
The Quebec-Canada accord gives Quebec a considerable level of control over its immigration. The province hopes to receive about 49,500 immigrants in 2023 and about 50,000 each year in 2024 and 2025, mainly emphasising economic immigration. The forecast is that about 32,000 qualified foreign workers will arrive every year between 2023 and 2025. Canada’s Francization has also been highlighted by Quebec in Quebec and elsewhere in Canada.
Quebec’s immigration strategy is based on selective immigration, economic development, and integrating culture and French language proficiency.
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