Maple News reports that Quebec has issued 32 invitations to skilled immigration candidates through its Arrima platform in a newly held draw on November 11. This marks Quebec’s first invitation round of the month under the Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program (QSWP), which aims to attract individuals who can contribute to the province’s economy and integrate successfully into its labor market.
The Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) selected candidates who had submitted an Expression of Interest (EI) in the Arrima pool, Quebec’s online system for managing skilled immigration applications. Invitations targeted individuals with a valid job offer outside the Greater Montreal area. Some candidates without that specific job offer were also chosen, reflecting a flexible selection approach.
This latest draw is Quebec’s 12th of 2021 and the second smallest so far this year. While earlier draws often invited over 500 candidates, a variety of factors including labor market demand, regional priorities, and pandemic-related shifts may explain the more selective approach of this round. With this draw, the province has now invited 3,256 candidates for permanent selection in 2021 via the Arrima system.
The Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program is tailored for professionals who are likely to succeed economically in the province. It remains a popular pathway for skilled workers and international graduates who wish to settle permanently in Quebec. After receiving an invitation, selected candidates have 60 days to submit a complete application and pay the required processing fees.
Once approved by the Quebec government, candidates receive a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), which allows them to apply for permanent residence with the federal government. Quebec operates its own distinct immigration programs that run separately from federal immigration pathways used elsewhere in Canada, allowing the province significant autonomy in selecting newcomers.
Looking ahead to 2022, Quebec is targeting the admission of up to 52,500 new immigrants. The majority of these admissions are expected to come through its economic immigration streams, specifically the QSWP and Québec Experience Program (PEQ). The province places continued emphasis on attracting skilled talent to address regional labor shortages, particularly in sectors outside the Montreal metropolitan area.
Maple News will continue to track immigration developments from Quebec and other provinces across Canada, helping candidates stay informed about key updates and opportunities.