Québec offers various immigration pathways for skilled workers, one of the most popular being the Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP) through Arrima. This online system allows candidates to express their interest in immigrating to Québec and be selected based on their qualifications and ability to integrate into the labor market. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.
1. Creating a Profile in Arrima
Arrima is an online portal where candidates submit their Declaration of Interest to immigrate to Québec.
Steps:
1. Create an account on the Arrima portal (https://www.quebec.ca).
2. Complete your profile, providing details on:
• Work experience
• Educational background
• Language skills (French and English)
• Family situation
• Connections to Québec (previous work, studies, or family ties)
3. Submit your Declaration of Interest. This step is free of charge.
Your declaration remains valid for 12 months, and you can update it anytime.
2. Receiving an Invitation from MIFI
The Ministry of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration (MIFI) selects candidates based on a point system that considers factors such as:
• Age
• Level of education
• Work experience
• French language proficiency
• Job offer in Québec (if applicable)
Candidates with the highest scores receive an invitation to submit a permanent selection application.
3. Submitting the Permanent Selection Application (CSQ)
If you receive an invitation, you must:
1. Submit your application on Arrima, including all required documents.
2. Pay the processing fees (approximately CAD 844 for the primary applicant + CAD 181 per dependent).
3. Provide proof of language proficiency, such as:
• TEF, TCF, or DELF for French
• IELTS for English (if applicable)
4. Wait for the MIFI decision.
If approved, you will receive a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), which allows you to apply for permanent residence at the federal level.
4. Applying for Permanent Residence with the Federal Government
After obtaining the CSQ, you must apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Steps:
1. Create an account on IRCC’s website (www.canada.ca).
2. Complete and submit the permanent residence application, including background and medical checks.
3. Provide supporting documents, such as:
• CSQ
• Passport
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical exam results
4. Pay the processing fees (approximately CAD 1,365 per adult).
5. Wait for IRCC’s decision, which may take several months.
5. Finalizing Your Permanent Residence
If your application is approved, you will receive:
• A Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
• An interview with an immigration officer upon arrival in Canada or at an IRCC office
• Your Permanent Resident Card (PR Card) within a few weeks
Estimated Processing Time
• Arrima profile and invitation: varies (a few months to over a year)
• CSQ processing: approximately 6 to 12 months
• Federal processing: approximately 6 to 24 months
• Total estimated time: 1.5 to 3 years
The immigration process via Arrima is competitive and requires careful preparation. Improving your French proficiency, having in-demand qualifications, and gaining work experience will increase your chances of success. To optimize your application, consider taking French language courses, securing a job offer in Québec, or having your credentials assessed before applying.
Need help with your immigration journey? Visit the official Québec and Canadian government websites for detailed information!
