Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ): Immigration applications to Quebec follow two distinct processes: selection and admission. Selection is carried out at the provincial level, while admission occurs at the federal level. To immigrate to Quebec, an applicant must meet the requirements of both processes.
The Selection Process:
Candidates are selected by Quebec by obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ). Various Quebec immigration programs award CSQs to successful candidates. This certificate confirms that a candidate has been officially selected to immigrate to the province of Quebec.
The Admission Process:
After obtaining a CSQ, candidates can submit an official application for permanent residence to the federal immigration authority. If this application is approved, permanent resident status is granted. Before starting the immigration process to Quebec, it is essential for the candidate to verify that they meet the requirements of both the selection and admission processes.
Quebec Immigration Programs
All Quebec immigration programs follow a two-step process: provincial selection followed by federal admission. Quebec offers a variety of immigration programs tailored to different candidate profiles. Here are the main options available:
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ)
- Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
- Quebec Investor Program
- Quebec Entrepreneur Program
- Quebec Self-Employed Worker Program
After the CSQ: Federal Step
Obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) means that a person has been officially selected by the province of Quebec for immigration. However, this does not guarantee the acquisition of permanent resident status in Canada. The CSQ simply allows the continuation of the immigration process by submitting a federal application for permanent residence.
At the federal stage, the applicant must prepare a permanent residence application in accordance with the instructions from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This application is paper-based, which means sending the documents in hard copy by mail or courier to the IRCC processing center. If the application is approved at the federal level, the applicant and all accompanying family members will receive permanent resident status in Canada.
The federal application requires detailed documentation, which varies based on each applicant’s qualifications and personal history. Required documents include proof of education, work experience, and language skills. Additionally, all adults included in the application must provide police certificates from their current and past countries of residence, and all family members must undergo a medical examination. Serious criminal or medical issues may result in inadmissibility to Canada. It is also important to note that the federal stage involves significant processing fees. For more information on these costs, consult the Canadian immigration processing fees.
Working with a CSQ
A CSQ does not allow a person to work in Quebec directly. However, a CSQ holder can apply for an extension of their existing work permit in Quebec. To do this, the candidate must already have a valid work permit, a CSQ, and a formal job offer from a Quebec employer. If these conditions are met, the candidate can submit a request for an extension of their work permit to the MIDI.
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