Maple News reports that the Quebec government has issued 536 invitations to skilled immigration candidates through a targeted round of Arrima draws held on September 30. This marks the second round of invitations under the Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) in the month of September.
To qualify for this latest draw, candidates were required to have a minimum score of 562 points in Quebec’s Arrima portal, a point-based system used to manage applications. The draw specifically targeted candidates working in high-demand occupations in the education and healthcare sectors, as well as individuals holding valid job offers outside the Montréal Metropolitan Community.
These targeted professions include registered nurses, practical nurses, nurse aides, secondary and elementary school teachers, and early childhood educators. The growing demand for professionals in these fields reflects Quebec’s focus on strengthening its workforce in essential public services, particularly in regions beyond the province’s major urban centers.
Maple News notes that Quebec has increased the frequency and size of its Arrima draws in recent months. Prior to this, invitation rounds were often held monthly. However, September and August saw a series of more aggressive selection rounds, with over 500 candidates being invited per draw, indicating a potential strategy shift to accelerate immigrant intake and fulfill pressing labor needs.
So far in 2021, Quebec has conducted 10 draws through the QSWP, inviting a total of 3,200 candidates to apply for permanent selection.
The Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program is designed to attract skilled individuals who are likely to succeed economically in the province. Upon receiving an invitation, candidates have 60 days to submit their application and pay the necessary processing fees. Quebec aims to process complete applications within six months.
Successful applicants receive a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), a mandatory document that allows them to then apply for permanent residency through the federal immigration system.
It’s important to note that Quebec manages its own immigration programs independently from the Canadian federal government. Those wishing to move to Quebec are evaluated under criteria set forth by the province itself, through programs like the QSWP, which are tailored to its specific economic and demographic needs.