Quebec introduces new personalized integration program for newcomers

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As a part of Quebec’s new integration services, prospective immigrants will be assigned an immigration assistant officer that will follow their case through a step-by-step process.

Details on the Parcours d’accompagnement personnalisé (personalized support program) were announced on August 8 by Quebec’s Minister of Immigration, Diversity and Inclusion, Simon Jolin-Barrette.

The new personalized support program, which is a part of the Quebec government’s immigration law reforms that passed legislation in June, is designed to “implement the best possible tools” to help newcomers “successfully integrate into Quebec society,” according to a news release from the ministry.

In order to immigrate to Quebec as permanent residents, foreign nationals must first obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) issued by the Ministry of Immigration, Diversity and Inclusion (MIDI). Quebec assesses and selects immigrants according to its own criteria. After receiving a CSQ, candidates must apply to the federal government to become permanent residents.

As soon as prospective immigrants receive their CSQ, they will have access to resources and a designated immigration officer. Candidates will be provided with information on the regions of Quebec, recognition of their professional qualifications and the option to take an online French course.

Upon arrival, newcomers will be greeted at the airport and invited to meet with a designated integration assistance officer within five days to create an individualized action plan.

There are four steps to the new process:

Arrival
Francization
Integration into the job market
Community integration

There is an optional course for those who want to learn about the sociocultural realities and job market in Quebec. The Province is offering an incentive of $185 for those who participate.

“The Personalized Support program takes into account the fact that there is not only one integration trajectory, but each person also has unique needs and experience,” Jolin-Barrette said in the French media release. “ The [new] program allows us to take this into account and direct people to the appropriate resources where they will find adapted and individualized services and support.”

Jolin-Barrette said the initiative represents a 20 million dollar annual investment and will include the creation of 84 new government jobs; 78 Integration Support Officers and six Coordinators.

“We are convinced that adequate support is crucial to the success of the integration process for immigrants,” Jolin-Barrette said in the release. “With this new measure, the government is taking concrete action to promote and ensure the successful integration of immigrants into Quebec society.”

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