Big Changes in Quebec Immigration: New rules, effective November 23, 2023

November 28, 2023

SPS Canada

Big Changes in Quebec Immigration: New rules, effective November 23, 2023

Now require those aiming for economic immigration to speak French as a mandatory requirement.

Recent changes to Quebec’s immigration policies have introduced a crucial modification for candidates seeking selection under the economic immigration program. Effective immediately, proficiency in the French language has become a mandatory requirement. This adjustment is designed to not only enhance economic immigration initiatives but also to address labor force challenges and contribute to the overall vitality of the French language within the province of Québec.

These changes underscore the government’s commitment to shaping immigration policies that align with economic development goals while simultaneously promoting linguistic and cultural values. By emphasizing proficiency in French, Quebec aims to ensure that newcomers contribute meaningfully to the local workforce and engage with the linguistic and cultural fabric of the region.

The latest regulations for submitting immigration applications in Quebec during 2023-2024

In addition, the Gazette officielle du Québec released three ministerial orders guiding the management of applications submitted under the permanent immigration pilot programs.

The Permanent immigration pilot program for workers in food processing

The Permanent immigration pilot program for orderlies

The Permanent immigration pilot program for workers in the artificial intelligence (AI), information technologies (IT) and visual effects (VE) sectors

What is the New French Proficiency Standards that transform the Quebec Immigration landscape?

Quebec’s  immigration landscape is undergoing a major change. Effective immediately, proficiency in French is now a mandatory criterion for eligibility across all of Quebec’s economic immigration programs. To be eligible for these programs, applicants, including those applying for the Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) and the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), must now attain a minimum language proficiency level of 7 in spoken French, as per the Quebec scale of French Proficiency Levels. This standardized requirement of level 7 proficiency extends to various other economic and pilot programs, serving as a universal condition for skilled workers seeking immigration to Quebec.

Additionally, the PEQ will mandate a proficiency level of 5 or above in written French, following the same criteria. Furthermore, starting November 23rd, the graduate component of the PEQ will necessitate that applicants have either completed a program in French or undertaken a minimum of three years of secondary or post-secondary study in the language.

For spouses sponsored under these economic programs, a proficiency equivalent to level 4 is required in oral French (speaking and listening).

In a noteworthy development, effective November 29th, the Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) will undergo a transition and be succeeded by the Qualified Skilled Worker Selection Program (QWSP).

Why choose SPS Canada as your Canadian immigration partner?

In the changing landscape of Quebec’s immigration, SPS Canada Immigration is your trusted guide. From navigating language proficiency requirements to understanding program shifts like the Qualified Skilled Worker Selection Program (QWSP), SPS Canada Immigration brings expertise and success-driven support to your journey. Let them be your compass as you embark on a seamless transition to a new chapter in Quebec.

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