Canada's immigration policies have undergone major changes at the federal level. Immigrating to Canada under federal programs has become more difficult and unpredictable by any measure. Yet Quebec continues to offer professionals a pathway to Canada under the province's popular immigration programs which will account for 55,000 newcomers this year, representing 20% of Canada's annual intake.
Immigration in Canada is shared between the federal government and each of the provinces and territories. Quebec enjoys comprehensive rights in this area that are unparalleled in Canada. Once the province approves an application, the federal jurisdiction is confined to medical and security related issues.
Quebec features two popular quota-based programmes: the Quebec Skilled Workers Programme (QSWP) and the Quebec Immigrant Investor Programme (QIIP). The QIIP will begin accepting up to 1750 applications for 5-months beginning on August 31, 2015. The Quebec government has not specified its QSWP launch date but confirms it will take place anytime before October 1, 2015. The QSWP will accept 6300 applications.
The QSWP is point based and somewhat comparable to the Federal Skilled Worker Programme. However, despite being a French speaking province, the program features more lenient criteria and a predictable process. As many occupations do not require advanced French language skills, Quebec is a popular option for many intending immigrants to Canada who can submit an application before annual quotas are reached.
The most recent application cycle started on April 1, 2014, and the application cap of 6,500 was filled within four months.
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The content of this article reflects the personal insight of Attorney Colin Singer and needs no disclaimer.