Maple News reports that Quebec has issued its largest invitation round in more than a year, extending invitations to 365 immigration candidates to apply for permanent selection under the province’s economic immigration system.
The draw, held on September 24, targeted individuals who had submitted a declaration of interest through Arrima, Quebec’s immigration application portal. This system is primarily used for the Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ), one of Quebec’s key economic immigration streams.
According to the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI), candidates selected in this round fell into one of three distinct categories. The first group consisted of candidates with a validated job offer from an employer in Quebec — a signal that these applicants are ready to integrate into the province’s labour market.
The second category included individuals currently in Quebec in diplomatic or official roles. These comprised consular officers, United Nations representatives, and staff from other intergovernmental organizations operating in the province. Individuals working directly with these officials were also eligible, as outlined by Article 26 of Quebec’s Immigration Regulation.
For the first time ever, MIFI also exercised a discretionary power to invite candidates who did not fall under traditional categories but who, in the opinion of the Minister, possess the potential to significantly contribute to Quebec’s economic and social development.
While Quebec has provided the overall number of invitations, it did not disclose how many individuals were called from each specific category.
Quebec distinguishes itself from other Canadian provinces by having greater autonomy over its immigration framework. Unlike the federal Express Entry system, Quebec selects its economic class immigrants independently through its own programs.
Selected candidates must obtain a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), which confirms their eligibility to immigrate to Quebec. Once granted a CSQ, applicants can move forward with a federal application for permanent residency through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
This initiative comes as Quebec continues to respond to labour shortages and seeks skilled immigrants to support its economy in various regions and sectors. It also showcases the province’s evolving strategy to attract talent not only through traditional measures but via a more flexible, ministerial judgment model, opening the door to newcomers with promising potential.