Skilled worker selection program PSTQ
with DJP Quebec Immigration Services
How the PSTQ is structured
The PSTQ includes four streams, designed to target workers with different types of skills:
1. Highly Qualified & Specialized Skills Stream
For individuals with high-level qualifications, such as university degrees or specialized expertise.
2. Intermediate & Manual Skills Stream
For skilled trades, technical occupations, and hands-on professions requiring practical training.
3. Regulated Professions Stream
For applicants working in occupations requiring licensing or regulatory authorization
(e.g., nurses, teachers, engineers, certain trades).
(e.g., nurses, teachers, engineers, certain trades).
4. Exceptional Talent Stream
For individuals with rare expertise, specialized abilities, or outstanding achievements in their field.
General eligibility requirements
To qualify for the PSTQ, applicants must meet several general conditions:
-
Be 18 years or older.
-
Intend to settle permanently in Quebec.
-
Have a profession that is eligible under the program.
-
Demonstrate the ability to support yourself and your family for the first three months in Quebec.
-
Complete the Attestation on Democratic and Quebec Values (or commit to completing it later).
Additional requirements depend on the specific stream (education, work experience, skills, etc.).
How the PSTQ process works
Step 1 — Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
You create a profile in Arrima.
You create a profile in Arrima.
Step 2 — Your profile is ranked
Quebec evaluates you based on factors such as education, French proficiency, age, Quebec experience, work experience, and labour market alignment.
Quebec evaluates you based on factors such as education, French proficiency, age, Quebec experience, work experience, and labour market alignment.
Step 3 — Invitation
If your profile meets the labour needs of the province, you may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
If your profile meets the labour needs of the province, you may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Step 4 — Permanent selection application
You submit your documents to Quebec. If accepted, you receive a CSQ (Certificat de sélection du Québec).
You submit your documents to Quebec. If accepted, you receive a CSQ (Certificat de sélection du Québec).
Step 5 — Apply for permanent residence
With the CSQ, you apply for permanent residence to the Canadian federal government.
With the CSQ, you apply for permanent residence to the Canadian federal government.
Why Quebec created the PSTQ
The PSTQ aims to:
-
Better align immigration with current labour needs
-
Encourage French-speaking skilled workers
-
Promote regional settlement outside Montreal
-
Modernize the selection process
-
Replace the outdated points system of the former RSWP/PRTQ