Maple News reports that Quebec held its first Arrima draw of 2021 on January 26, inviting 95 immigration candidates to apply for permanent selection under the province’s Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP).
The invitations were issued through Quebec’s online Expression of Interest (EOI) platform, Arrima, which is used to manage applications for skilled worker immigration. Candidates invited in this round fell under two categories: those with a validated job offer and individuals serving in diplomatic or international organization roles within Quebec, along with their staff as specified under Section 26 of the Quebec Immigration Regulation.
Operated by Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration (MIFI), the Arrima system allows candidates aged 18 and older to submit a profile indicating their interest in immigrating to the province. Once in the pool, profiles are evaluated based on Quebec’s specific labour market needs, with invitations extended to those best aligned with the province’s economic goals and social integration potential.
Candidates who receive an invitation must submit a full application for permanent selection within a specified timeframe. The application is then assessed using Quebec’s selection grid, which considers factors such as education, age, French language proficiency, and professional experience.
Quebec’s immigration system operates independently from the federal Express Entry system, granting the province greater control over the selection process based on its unique demographic and employment priorities. This autonomy enables Quebec to meet regional economic demands and foster integration of skilled newcomers more efficiently.
The Arrima platform, introduced in 2018, replaced Quebec’s previous “first-come, first-served” intake model with a merit-based system aimed at building a more dynamic and responsive immigration framework.
With this latest draw, Quebec reaffirms its commitment to attracting individuals who can contribute meaningfully to its workforce and adapt well to life in the francophone province.
Maple News will continue to monitor upcoming draws and provide timely updates on Quebec’s immigration developments.