On this page you will find
- Overview of the new Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)
- How the four PSTQ streams work
- Key invitation and scoring criteria explained
- Points grid highlights for French, age, education and work history
- Arrima declaration of interest process and self-evaluation tool
- Timeline for July 2025 invitation rounds
- Frequently asked questions
Program replaces the PRTQ and restarts invitations
Quebec’s Skilled Worker Selection Program (Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés – PSTQ) officially replaced the Regular Skilled Worker Program on 29 November 2024. However, after announcing the new program, it was immediately paused. A ministerial order published on 2 July 2025 confirmed the invitation criteria and scoring system, clearing the way for new invitations to apply for permanent selection.
Four streams cover every occupation
The PSTQ is organised into four streams covering all labour-market needs:
- Stream 1 – Highly qualified and specialised skills (generally TEER 0–2 occupations)
- Stream 2 – Intermediate and manual skills
- Stream 3 – Regulated professions in Quebec
- Stream 4 – Exceptional talent
Greater weight on French and Quebec experience
The new grid scores candidates out of 1,400 points, with emphasis on three broad groups:
- Human capital (max 520 points): French proficiency can add up to 200 points across the four language skills, while applicants aged 20–30 earn the full 120 points for age. Recent skilled work experience (up to 70 points) and higher education (up to 130 points) also count heavily.
- Response to Quebec needs (max 700 points): Holding a Quebec diploma (up to 200 points), work experience in the province (up to 160 points) and employment outside the Montréal census metropolitan area (up to 50 points) all carry substantial weight. Occupations diagnosed as “in deficit” on Quebec’s labour-market list can add up to 120 points.
- Adaptation factors (max 180 points): Spousal French, regional stays, non-degree study in Quebec and local relatives can all boost a profile.
Knowledge of French remains mandatory for Streams 1–3, and most candidates will need results from an approved language test such as TEF Canada, TCF Canada, DELF or DALF.
Arrima is still the gateway
All hopefuls must file or update a declaration of interest in the Arrima portal. Profiles are ranked automatically under the new grid, and tie-breakers rely on the date and time the declaration was submitted
A new self-evaluation tool, expected online in the coming weeks, will let users estimate their score before submitting.
Gradual invitations begin in July 2025
Invitations will roll out throughout July, starting with individuals who already live in Quebec. Priority goes to French-speaking candidates with Quebec study or work experience – especially those working in occupations that relieve current labour shortages outside Montréal. After each round, the province will publish the number of invitations per stream and the minimum cut-off scores on Québec.ca.
What applicants should do now
- Update (or submit) your Arrima profile to reflect the PSTQ criteria.
- Gather proof of French proficiency, education and work experience.
- If you studied or worked in Quebec’s regions, highlight it: regional ties can add hundreds of points.
- Monitor Québec.ca for cut-off scores once invitation rounds begin.
FAQ
What is the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)?
The PSTQ is Quebec’s new permanent-residence pathway for skilled workers. It replaced the former Regular Skilled Worker Program and uses a points grid and four occupation-based streams to invite the highest-scoring candidates to apply for selection.
When will invitations be issued?
Invitations start gradually in July 2025. Early rounds focus on people already living in Quebec who speak French, have local study or work experience and fill regional labour shortages.
How is French proficiency scored?
Each of the four language skills – listening, speaking, reading and writing – can add up to 50 points for the principal applicant (40 for a spouse). Accepted tests include TEF Canada, TCF Canada, TEFAQ, DELF and DALF.
Can candidates outside Quebec receive an invitation?
Yes. Although initial rounds prioritise in-province profiles, Stream 1 and Stream 2 are open to overseas talent. Strong French, relevant work experience and an occupation in deficit can compensate for the lack of Quebec ties.
What happens to Arrima profiles created before November 2024?
Older declarations remain in the system but must be updated to meet PSTQ requirements. Failing to update may leave the profile unranked or scored too low to receive an invitation.
