Maple News reports that the province of Quebec has conducted its largest immigration draw of the year under the Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program (QSWP), issuing invitations to 585 candidates on August 26. This marks the third round of selections in a single month—a notable acceleration in Quebec’s immigration activity.
Using the Arrima expression of interest system, candidates with a minimum score of 517 were invited to apply for permanent selection by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI). This recent draw outpaced earlier ones held on August 12 and August 19, both of which also exceeded 500 invitations.
The invitations were strategically focused. Priority was given to candidates with a valid job offer outside the Greater Montréal area and those working in high-demand occupations, especially in the technology, engineering, and creative sectors. Roles included computer engineers, software developers, database analysts, and graphic designers, among others.
This draw brings the total number of candidates invited by Quebec in 2021 to 2,145 across eight rounds, signaling a clear intention by the province to accelerate skilled worker immigration to support economic growth and address labor shortages in key industries.
The QSWP is designed for skilled workers and international graduates likely to succeed economically in the province. Selected candidates are required to submit a complete application for permanent selection within six months. Those approved will receive a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), which is a prerequisite to apply for permanent residence at the federal level.
Unlike other Canadian provinces, Quebec administers its own immigration programs, with distinct criteria separate from the federal Express Entry system. The province retains control over its permanent selection processes to better tailor immigration to its regional labor market and cultural priorities.
With three large invitation rounds in a single month, Quebec is clearly signaling an aggressive push to attract skilled talent and address urgent workforce needs, especially outside the Montréal metropolitan area. Maple News will continue to monitor upcoming draws and provide timely updates for skilled professionals considering Quebec as their next destination.