Quebec Reopens Skilled Worker Program in 2025 to Invite Manual and Intermediate Workers with Strong French Skills

Quebec Issues Invitations to Workers with Intermediate and Manual Skills

In a move to address labor shortages and strengthen its workforce, Quebec has resumed and expanded its Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ). Specifically, the province has issued invitations to workers with intermediate and manual skills under the program’s second stream.

Program Reopening and Eligibility

Quebec restarted the PSTQ in July 2025 after a brief pause and system update. To qualify, applicants needed to submit or update their declaration of interest on the Arrima portal on or after November 29, 2024. Only those meeting the revised criteria were considered for invitations.

PSTQ Structure and Streams

The PSTQ now operates under four main streams:

• Stream 1: Highly qualified and specialized skills
• Stream 2: Intermediate and manual skills
• Stream 3: Regulated professions
• Stream 4: Exceptional talent

Stream 2: Targeting Intermediate and Manual Skills

Quebec focused on occupations under FEER categories 3, 4, or 5 for this round. Applicants needed to demonstrate:

• At least level 5 French proficiency for the main applicant
• Level 4 French proficiency for spouses or partners
• Exclusion from regulated professions

2025 Invitation Details

In July 2025, 273 individuals met the criteria and received invitations to apply for permanent selection. This reflects Quebec’s strategic approach to addressing labor market needs.

Quebec’s Immigration Distinction

Unlike federal programs, Quebec’s system prioritizes French language skills and labor-market alignment. It excludes certain occupations requiring Canadian citizenship, ensuring selections meet the province’s specific needs.

Summary Table: Key Criteria for Stream 2

Invitation Process and Prioritization

Quebec’s invitation process for the PSTQ involves a rigorous selection criteria based on a scoring system. Applicants first submit a declaration of interest through the Arrima portal, where their profiles are ranked according to factors such as French language skills, work experience, education, and alignment with the province’s labor market needs. Invitations are prioritized for candidates whose profiles best match Quebec’s economic and demographic priorities.

One notable aspect of Quebec’s approach is the emphasis on candidates already residing in the province. Those with existing work experience or education in Quebec, particularly in regions facing significant labor shortages, are often given priority. This strategy aims to retain skilled workers who are already integrated into the local economy and can immediately contribute to addressing labor gaps.

Special Provisions and Additional Invitations

Since the program’s resumption in July 2025, Quebec has also issued additional invitations outside the standard PSTQ streams under special provisions. These invitations target candidates whose skills and profiles align with evolving economic and demographic needs. Such cases are governed by specific sections of Quebec’s immigration regulations and are designed to address unique labor market challenges that may not be covered under the regular streams.

Quebec’s Immigration Strategy in 2025

Quebec’s immigration system continues to stand out for its distinct approach, which places a heavy emphasis on French language proficiency and labor-market alignment. Unlike federal immigration programs, Quebec maintains exclusive control over its selection criteria, allowing the province to tailor its immigration strategy to its specific needs. This autonomy ensures that the selection process directly addresses the province’s economic and demographic priorities.

One key distinction is the exclusion of certain occupations that require Canadian citizenship or permanent residency, such as law enforcement or military roles. This ensures that the PSTQ remains focused on selecting candidates who can immediately contribute to Quebec’s labor market and integrate into the province’s unique cultural and linguistic environment.

Conclusion

Quebec’s resumption and expansion of the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) in 2025 marks a strategic effort to address labor shortages by targeting intermediate and manual skills. The issuance of 273 invitations in July 2025 underscores the province’s commitment to aligning immigration with specific labor market needs, emphasizing French proficiency as a cornerstone of integration.

Quebec’s unique approach differs from federal programs by prioritizing French language skills and labor-market alignment, allowing the province to tailor its immigration strategy to its distinct economic and cultural environment. This focus ensures that selected candidates can immediately contribute to Quebec’s economy and integrate seamlessly into its society.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)?

The PSTQ is Quebec’s program for selecting skilled workers to address labor shortages and strengthen the workforce.

Who received invitations under the PSTQ in July 2025?

273 individuals with intermediate and manual skills (FEER categories 3, 4, or 5) received invitations.

What are the French proficiency requirements for Stream 2 applicants?

Main applicants need Level 5 French, and spouses or partners need Level 4 French.

How can I apply for the PSTQ?

Submit or update your declaration of interest on the Arrima portal to be considered.

What distinguishes Quebec’s immigration program from federal programs?

Quebec’s program emphasizes French language skills and labor-market alignment, with autonomy in selection criteria.

Are regulated professions included in Stream 2?

No, Stream 2 excludes regulated professions.

How are candidates prioritized for invitations?

Prioritization is based on French skills, work experience, education, and alignment with labor market needs.

Can I apply if I’m not currently in Quebec?

Yes, but priority may be given to those already in Quebec with local work experience or education.