Canada’s Quebec Skilled Worker Programme opens

The much-anticipated Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) opened for applications today (Wednesday).

The QSWP is a programme similar to its federal equivalent but considered to be more lenient in terms of criteria. It enables the regular immigrant to move to Canada to live and work there, provided the person settles in the province of Quebec.

It is the most competitive provincial programme, with application caps filled within a matter of months.

The new application round starts today November 4 and will be open for applications for a year, or until the application cap has been reached.

This year, 6,300 applications will be accepted, a reduction compared to the previous years.

The programme functions on a first come, first serve basis.

How it works

The programme uses a point-based system, where a minimum threshold applies in order to obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ).

A new point threshold was implemented for this round, where a single applicant must score at least 49 points, while an applicant with a spouse or common-law partner must score at least 57 points.

Considerable emphasis is placed on language. An applicant can receive a maximum of 22 points for language. Up to 16 points can be awarded for French proficiency, and up to 6 for English. Area of training can be allocated 6-16 points.

Specifying which occupations are in demand, the Canadian province requires candidates to have qualifications in one of the training fields on the list. The area of training list has been amended for this year’s cycle.

Individuals who have degrees in areas such as computer science, computer engineering, accounting, translation, and banking and financial operations will be awarded significantly more points than was previously the case.

How to increase your chances

Although a first come, first served system applies, there are ways to increase the chances of being accepted for immigration to Quebec.

An applicant can submit a file through the Federal Express Entry system simultaneously, the Government of Quebec has advised.

The Express Entry system allows the selection of candidates based on eligibility, favouring those with the highest number of points. The Government of Quebec, or employers in the province may select candidates from the Express Entry system at any point in time.

According to the governments of Quebec and Canada, candidates can apply through both systems as long as they withdraw one when an invitation to apply is issued on either the federal, or the provincial level.

Why to act fast

This year, 6,300 applications will be accepted, a reduction compared to the previous years.

The previous application cycle had an application cap of 6,500, and was filled in four months.

Applications will only be accepted during a cycle, unless the applicant has a job offer in hand.

Applicants are advised to have their applications ready and submit their files as soon as the application cycle is announced.

If an applicant is eligible for the QSWP and submits a complete application within the timeframe set by the government of Quebec, he or she may have a good chance to be accepted.

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