Has COVID-19 impacted Quebec immigration?

Despite COVID-19, Quebec continues with the processing of applications for temporary as well as permanent selection.

Quebec is not a part of the Provincial Nominee Program [PNP]. 

As per the 1991 Canada-Quebec Accord, it is the responsibility of the Quebec government for the selection of economic immigrants to Quebec. The selection process for Quebec immigration is managed by the ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration [MIFI]. 

Those with CSQ can apply for permanent residence

An individual with a Quebec Selection Certificate – also referred to as CSQ [for Certificat de sélection du Québec] – can still apply for permanent residence in Canada.

The CSQ is a document issued by the MIFI, confirming the selection of an applicant for immigrating to Quebec. Immigration candidates that have a CSQ can then apply to the federal government of Canada for permanent resident status. 

Despite COVID-19 situation, CSQ holders can still apply as the applications are being processed. Moreover, no applications for permanent residence will be refused due to missing documents. Additional 90 days are being given for completion of the PR application.

International students submitting application through the PEQ while awaiting diploma

International students can apply for a permanent selection through the Quebec Experience Program – also referred to as PEQ [for Programme de l’expérience Québécoise] – if they have graduated from a post-secondary institution in Quebec.

MIFI will be accepting official transcripts as well as attestations of the successful completion of the study program.

For an international student to be able to apply for the PEQ, the program of study in a Quebec post-secondary institution must have been at least 2 years in duration. 

After the submission of the diploma, official transcript, or attestation, the international student has 3 years to apply for a CSQ. 

In these 3 years, the international student can get a Post Graduation Work Permit allowing them to work in Quebec for up to 3 years. 

It is during this time that the student can obtain the work experience for applying as either a temporary foreign worker or a graduate.

Despite the COVID-19 situation, Express Entry and PNP draws continue to be held. Submission of Express Entry profiles is also open. 

For more details, get in touch with us today!

If you are looking to Migrate, Study, Invest, Visit, or Work Overseas, talk to Y-Axis, the World’s No. 1 Immigration & Visa Company.

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