Québec’s immigration system is set for a transformation this fall, as the province prepares to introduce the Skilled Worker Selection Program (SWSP) on November 29, 2024. This new program will replace the current Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP), reflecting Québec’s ongoing efforts to refine its approach to selecting skilled immigrants who are ready to contribute to the local economy and culture.
While details about the SWSP's specific requirements have yet to be fully disclosed, the program is expected to follow a similar structure to the RSWP. Under the existing RSWP, candidates are evaluated based on a range of criteria, including their education, work experience, age, language proficiency, and connections to Québec.
Currently, applicants submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Québec's Arrima portal, and the province periodically invites top-ranking candidates to apply for permanent selection.
The SWSP aims to improve the process of selecting skilled workers while aligning with Québec’s broader immigration objectives. This update is part of a temporary suspension in invitations for the RSWP, announced as part of Québec's 2025 Immigration Plan, which introduced temporary measures to control the growth of permanent immigration.
Prospective applicants interested in immigrating to Québec as skilled workers are encouraged to stay tuned to official updates from the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI) as further information on the SWSP becomes available.
The new program is expected to bring a fresh approach to selecting skilled talent for Québec's evolving workforce.