Like temporary foreign workers, international students residing or pursuing studies in Quebec can consider settling permanently in the province. In order to be granted with permanent resident status, a foreign student must first obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ- Certificat de sélection du Québec). To obtain, a prospect must apply for the same in the skilled worker class. For the purpose, the applicant has to be at least 18-year old. Those who are currently pursuing studies in the province must demonstrate their intention to take up employment in Quebec in short term.

If above criteria are met by a foreign student, he/she is then supposed to choose either of the programs- Quebec Experience Program (PEQ- Programme de l’expérience québécoise) for Quebec Graduate or regular selection program (skilled workers) for foreign student in Quebec.

While the Quebec Experience Program- Quebec Graduate is for those international students who have obtained a Quebec diploma, besides having fair knowledge of spoken French; the Regular Program- Foreign Student in Quebec is dedicated to those who have completed a study program in the Canadian province, or are in the process of completion.

The application for Canadian permanent residence can only be filed once the foreign student obtains the Quebec Selection Certificate. After receiving the certificate, a PR petition is lodged with the concerned Canadian visa office, however, it must be kept in mind that a Quebec Selection Certificate is valid for only 1 year. Thus, the PR application should ideally be filed within 1 year of issuing the CSQ.

After filing the PR application, it entirely depends on the Canadian government whether they would want to grant an applicant permanent resident status or not.

If you are interested in settling permanently in Quebec, send your updated resume to [email protected] for free-of-charge assessment for immigration.