Maple News reports that the province of Quebec has invited 233 skilled worker candidates to apply for permanent selection through its Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP). The invitations were issued on December 16 through Arrima, Quebec’s online immigration application management system.
According to details released today, this latest draw targeted two specific categories of candidates. The first group included individuals who held a validated job offer in Quebec. The second featured people who are currently residing in the province in official roles such as diplomats, consular officers, or representatives of international organizations like the United Nations. Staff members accompanying or associated with these officials were also considered, as outlined in Section 26 of the Quebec Immigration Regulation.
The RSWP is one of Quebec’s primary economic immigration pathways, distinct from federal immigration programs. Administered by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI), this program aims to address the province’s labor market shortages and long-term demographic goals.
To be considered under the RSWP, candidates must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Arrima portal. Introduced in 2018, Arrima was designed to replace the former “first-come, first-served” model, streamlining the selection process by focusing on candidates who best meet Quebec’s current labor demands.
Once an EOI is submitted, applicants enter a pool and are evaluated based on a selection grid. This grid assesses several factors including education, work experience, language skills, and potential to integrate successfully into Quebec society. Those who receive an invitation have a limited timeframe to submit a full application for permanent selection, along with required fees and supporting documents.
This draw shows Quebec’s continued focus on welcoming candidates who already have ties to the province, such as employment commitments or residency through international diplomatic work. It also underscores the importance of aligning immigration selection criteria with real-time labor market needs.
Maple News will continue to provide updates on Quebec immigration developments and future Arrima draws as more details become available.