Maple News reports that Quebec has officially opened applications for two new permanent immigration pilot programs aimed at addressing critical labour shortages in the province. The announcement was made by Nadine Girault, Quebec’s Minister of Immigration, and marks a significant step in the province’s strategy to strengthen its workforce and economic recovery efforts post-COVID-19.
As of March 31, the Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Orderlies is now accepting applications. This five-year initiative will select up to 550 primary applicants annually who are currently employed as orderlies, nurse aides, or patient service associates under National Occupational Classification (NOC) code 3413. Applicants must also demonstrate fluency in spoken French to be eligible. The program’s objective is to help alleviate ongoing staffing shortages in Quebec’s healthcare system.
This is the second immigration stream unveiled this month. On March 24, Quebec launched its Food Processing Workers Pilot Program. This pathway is open to temporary foreign workers employed in Quebec’s food processing industry, offering a route to permanent residency for those in eligible roles.
A third pilot program is scheduled to open on April 22, 2021. This initiative will target skilled workers in the fields of artificial intelligence, information technology, and visual effects—sectors that are vital to the province’s innovation economy and future development.
All three pilot programs were announced in 2020 as part of the Quebec government’s broader plan to attract and retain talent in essential industries. Each program will allocate up to 550 Quebec Selection Certificates (CSQs) per year to qualified principal applicants and their family members, capping the total number of annual selections across all programs at 1,650.
Maple News notes that these pilot programs are designed not only to fill urgent labour gaps but also to support Quebec’s long-term economic resilience. By targeting high-demand occupations and ensuring applicants integrate linguistically through French language requirements, the provincial government aims to build a more stable and inclusive workforce.
Potential applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible. The intake period for the Orderlies Pilot Program runs from March 31 to October 31, 2021.
Maple News will continue to monitor updates on these pilots and other provincial immigration initiatives across Canada.