Deadline for Quebec Skilled Worker Applications Rapidly Approaching

CIC News
Published: February 12, 2014

The deadline for submission of applications to the Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW) Program is March 31, 2014. On that date, the current regulations governing the program are set to expire. The Government of Quebec has yet to announce its plans for the QSW program going forward, leaving many to speculate as to what the future of the program, and Quebec immigration in general, may hold.

With the deadline for applications rapidly approaching, potential applicants to the QSW program must move quickly to ensure their completed applications are received in time to be considered.

The QSW Program Today

At present, applicants to the QSW program are eligible if they achieve a minimum number of points on a selection grid and have at least a high school level of education.

An intake cap of 20,000 skilled workers was put in place last year. However, as of December 31st a little more than 6,000 applications had been received. Quebec has provided no further information since the year ended.

The program is particularly suited to individuals with experience in fields such as nursing or civil engineering. Nurses receive 16 points for their educational qualifications, the highest amount possible according to the QSW selection grid. Civil engineers, on the other hand, have seen the number of points awarded for their experience rise from 6 points previously to a full 12 points in this current application cycle.

The QSW Program Moving Forward

At this time, no news has been shared as to what the QSW Program will look like after March 2014.

“The Government of Quebec is within its rights to modify the program as it sees fit,” said Attorney David Cohen. “It could reopen the program under new rules, extend it under the same rules, or temporarily close it all together. Right now, immigration professionals and hopefuls alike are waiting to hear word on what the future holds.”

In 2013, the program’s criteria were changed not once but twice.

“This program is currently quite popular because, when contrasted with the Federal Skilled Worker Program, its intake cap and eligibility criteria are somewhat less restrictive,” said Attorney Cohen. “I hope that Quebec will choose to continue welcoming high numbers of skilled immigrants, both in 2014 and after.”

 To find out if you are eligible for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program, or one of over 60 Canadian immigration programs, please fill out a free online assessment form.

Share this article
Share your voice
Did you find this article helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Did you find this article helpful?
Please provide a response
Thank you for your helpful feedback
Please contact us if you would like to share additional feedback, have a question, or would like Canadian immigration assistance.
  • Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
  • Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at media@canadavisa.com
Top Stories
Can I travel outside of Canada as a temporary resident?
BREAKING: Ontario announces distribution of allocation for international study permits in 2024
Canada to introduce a Renters Bill of Rights
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Canada
Can I travel outside of Canada as a temporary resident?
male traveler taking selfie portrait on the hill with mount assiniboine in national park at BC, Canada
Canada to introduce a Renters Bill of Rights
Clearing up three common misconceptions about immigrating to Canada
Debunking common myths about immigrating to Canada.
IRCC issues ITAs to Express Entry candidates in second draw this week
IRCC has held another round of invitations for Express Entry candidates
Link copied to clipboard