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SWSP — Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)
CanadaCanada•North America
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SWSP — Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)

Skilled Migration PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed Remote Work

At a Glance

Processing Time

1.4–1.7 years

Estimated Cost

CAD $2,615

Stay Duration

Indefinite

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote work OK

Apply Now Official Information
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Living in Canada

Cost of Living
12% cheaper than United States
Avg SalaryCA$48,000
Quality of Life
170/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

Quebec's points-based permanent residence pathway for skilled workers. This program officially replaced the Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ) on November 29, 2024.

The PSTQ (Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés) is Quebec's points-based permanent immigration program for skilled workers. Replacing the PRTQ in November 2024, it uses an Expression of Interest in Arrima and four streams based on occupation type, awarding priority to French-speaking candidates.

Applicants receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), then apply for federal PR — a two-stage process of 17–21 months total. Fees include CAD 940 (Quebec) plus CAD 990 federal processing and a CAD 600 RPRF. Spouses and dependents are included; bridging work permits are available while awaiting PR.

This visa is ideal for skilled workers with French proficiency who intend to settle and work in Quebec and want a transparent points-based route to Canadian permanent residence.

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Cost Breakdown

Quebec Selection Principal ApplicantCAD $940
Federal Processing FeeCAD $990
Right of Permanent Residence FeeCAD $600
Biometrics FeeCAD $85
TotalCAD $2,615

Stay & Extensions

Status typePermanent / indefinite

Annual Cap & Quota

45,000 to 50,000 total admissions

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must be at least 18 years of age.

Must intend to reside and work in the province of Quebec.

Must qualify under one of the four PSTQ streams.

Must score sufficient points on the Quebec Selection Grid.

Must obtain an Attestation of Learning about Democratic Values and Quebec Values.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport and civil status documents

Diplomas and transcripts

Detailed work experience letters

Official French language test results

Proof of financial self-sufficiency

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Direct path to PR
  • Points-based transparency
  • Family inclusion

Worth Knowing

  • Mandatory French proficiency
  • Long processing times
  • Quebec-specific residency requirement
  • Insufficient points on selection grid
  • Lack of mandatory French proficiency for specific streams
  • Failure to complete Quebec Values test

Application Process

1

Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) in Arrima

2

Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)

3

Submit Application for Permanent Selection (DSP)

4

Complete Quebec Values test

5

Receive CSQ

6

Submit PR application to IRCC

7

Complete biometrics and medicals

8

Receive PR approval

Application Forms

Go to application portal
MIFI Arrima PortalFill online
IRCC Permanent Residence PortalFill online

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