Maple News reports that the province of Quebec has implemented a new, comprehensive points-based ranking system for candidates submitting profiles in its Arrima Expression of Interest pool. This updated framework aims to better align immigration with the province’s labor market demands and improve the overall selection process.
Under the revised system, an applicant can earn up to 1,320 points, divided into two major categories: 580 points for human capital factors and 740 points for labor market-related criteria. This approach allows Quebec to prioritize candidates based on both their individual qualifications and their potential economic contributions.
Human capital factors include a candidate’s proficiency in French, bilingualism, age, education level, and professional experience. These criteria reflect the province’s ongoing efforts to preserve the French language and attract skilled talent.
Labor market-related points are awarded based on experience in high-demand occupations, prior study or work experience in Quebec, experience elsewhere in Canada, and job offers. Notably, job offers outside the Greater Montreal area can earn up to 380 points—more than double the 180 points available for offers within the city—signaling a push to support regional economic development.
Spouses or common-law partners of the primary applicant can also contribute to the overall score, based on similar qualifications, adding a valuable dimension to the assessment of family applications.
According to Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration (MIFI), the new scoring model will soon be used to issue invitations to apply for a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ). Candidates will be ranked according to their total score, and in the case of ties, those who submitted their profile earlier will be given priority.
The province anticipates that with this enhanced selection model, complete applications could be processed and lead to the issuance of a CSQ within six months. Once a CSQ is obtained, applicants may then apply for permanent residence at the federal level.
MIFI emphasizes that this system is designed to improve transparency and efficiency, ensuring that individuals with the greatest potential to meet Quebec’s socioeconomic needs are invited to immigrate.
This move is seen as part of Quebec’s broader initiative to modernize its immigration practices and respond more dynamically to labor shortages across different regions.