Temporary residents living in Quebec have several pathways to settle in other parts of Canada.
If you’re currently residing in Quebec and working toward Canadian permanent residence (PR), it may be worth exploring alternative options, especially in light of the recent suspension of two key Quebec immigration streams: the Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ) and the Graduate component of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ).
In honor of Francophone Immigration Week, this article outlines alternative immigration pathways through Canada’s Express Entry system for international graduates and skilled workers currently living in Quebec.
Why Choose Express Entry?
Applying for Canadian permanent residence is not a straightforward process—you must first receive an invitation.
Canada's federal government uses the **Express Entry** system to invite top-ranking candidates to apply for permanent residency under three main federal immigration programs. These invitations are extended to candidates who plan to settle in provinces and territories outside Quebec.
According to the latest Immigration Levels Plan, the federal government aims to welcome 124,680 new permanent residents through Express Entry in 2025.
If you are interested in settling outside Quebec and meet the eligibility criteria for one of these programs, you can create a profile in the **Express Entry system**—the federal equivalent of Quebec's Arrima system.
What Are Your Options Through Express Entry?
To receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence through Express Entry, you must meet the requirements of one of the eligible immigration programs and have a high enough Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score to be selected in a draw.
Check out the chart below to see which program you’re most likely to qualify for:
Express Entry Streams and Pathways
Here’s a breakdown of the key Express Entry streams and who they are best suited for:
Stream/Pathway | Summary of Key Requirements | Best For |
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | - One year of skilled work experience in Canada. - Proficiency in French or English. | Candidates who have Canadian work experience. |
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) | - One year of skilled work experience. - Proficiency in French or English. - Settlement funds, or a valid job offer plus work authorization. - Minimum score on FSWP grid. | Candidates without Canadian skilled work experience. |
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) | - Two years of skilled trade work experience. - Certificate of trade qualification or a valid job offer. - Settlement funds, or a valid job offer plus work authorization. - Proficiency in French or English. | Tradespeople without Canadian work experience. |
Boosting Your Chances with Category-Based Draws
If your CRS score is lower—typically below 520—you may want to consider category-based draws to increase your chances of receiving an ITA. Here’s how you can qualify for these:
Category | Summary of Key Requirements | CRS Cut-off of Most Recent Draw |
French Language Proficiency | Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) level 7 or higher in all language abilities. | 444 |
Healthcare | Work experience in healthcare. | 445 |
Science, Technology, Education, and Math (STEM) | Work experience in STEM fields. | 491 |
Trade | Work experience in a skilled trade. | 433 |
Transport | Work experience in transport. | 430 |
Agriculture and Agri-food | Work experience in agriculture or agri-food sectors. | 437 |
To be eligible for a category-based draw, you must have at least six months of full-time, continuous work experience (or an equivalent amount of part-time work) in an eligible occupation within the last three years. Be sure to choose the correct National Occupation Classification (NOC) code for your job.
How Does Express Entry Work?
Express Entry operates in two main stages:
Profile Creation: You create a profile in the Express Entry system. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you enter the pool and are ranked based on your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Draws and Invitations: The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts periodic rounds of invitations (draws), inviting the highest-ranking candidates to apply for permanent residence (PR).
Once you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you have 60 days to submit your PR application.
The candidate can either:
Respond with an application for PR;
do nothing; or
respond by declining the invitation.
If the candidate applies, IRCC processes their application, typically within about six months.
If the candidate does nothing, their profile is invalidated and will not be considered for future draws.
If the candidate declines their invitation, they are returned to the pool and will be considered for future draws.
How do Express Entry draws work?
There are three types of invitation rounds, or draws, under Express Entry:
General Rounds: IRCC invites candidates with the highest CRS scores from across all programs.
Program-Specific Rounds: IRCC invites top-scoring candidates eligible for a specific program within Express Entry. These also include Express Entry-aligned Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams. More information on PNPs is available below.
Category-Based Rounds: IRCC invites candidates who meet specific criteria that align with Canada’s economic and demographic priorities.
How are profiles ranked?
Candidates are ranked in the Express Entry system through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This is a points-based tool designed to identify candidates with the strongest potential to succeed in the Canadian job market.
How the CRS Works
The CRS awards points across three categories, with a maximum of 1,200 points available. The categories include:
Core Human Capital Factors
Core human capital factors are based on age, education, language proficiency, and work experience.
Candidates without a spouse/partner can earn up to 500 points for their core human capital factors.
Candidates with a spouse/partner can earn up to 460 points for their own core human capital factors, plus an additional 40 points for their spouse's factors.
Skill Transferability Factors
Points are also awarded for skills that complement your core factors, such as combining education with work experience. This allows candidates to earn up to 100 additional points.
Additional Factors
In addition to core and skill transferability factors, there are extra points available for various other factors that can further boost your CRS score:
Provincial nomination: Awarded 600 points, which significantly increases a candidate's chances of receiving an ITA.
Job offer: Additional points can be awarded if you have a valid job offer in Canada.
Canadian education: Points for completing post-secondary education in Canada.
French language proficiency: Candidates with strong French skills can earn 25 or 50 points, depending on their English proficiency level.
Sibling in Canada: Having a sibling living in Canada can earn you 15 points.
CRS Ranking and Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Candidates in the Express Entry pool are ranked according to their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and those with the highest scores are invited to apply for permanent residence (PR) in various rounds of draws. These draws are designed to select the most qualified candidates, with higher CRS scores generally having a better chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.
Eligibility for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is one of three immigration streams managed by Canada’s federal Express Entry system. It is designed for individuals who have gained skilled work experience in Canada and wish to apply for permanent residence.
Since the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) awards additional points for Canadian work experience, candidates who meet the eligibility requirements for CEC often have higher CRS scores, which boosts their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
In line with Canada’s latest Immigration Levels Plan, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has committed to prioritizing CEC candidates for PR selection. These candidates will be part of a new priority category known as the "In-Canada Focus" category, along with those in regional programs.
Eligibility Requirements for the Canadian Experience Class
Criterion | Details |
Work Experience in Canada | Applicants must have at least one year of skilled, professional, or technical work experience in Canada within the 36 months prior to their application date. This work experience must total at least 1,560 hours (equivalent to one year of full-time work) and can be accumulated through both full-time or part-time positions. Note: Self-employment or work experience gained while studying full-time (e.g., co-op placements or internships) does not count. |
Language Proficiency | Applicants must meet or exceed the required Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) scores: - CLB 5 for jobs under NOC TEER category 2 or 3 ("initial intermediate proficiency"). - CLB 7 for jobs under NOC TEER category 0 or 1 ("adequate intermediate proficiency"). |
Intent to Reside Outside Quebec | The CEC is intended for individuals who plan to live and work outside Quebec. Candidates intending to settle in Quebec are not eligible for the CEC but may explore Quebec's own immigration programs. |
Timeframe | Applicants can remain in Canada during the application process. However, those who are no longer in Canada can still apply, provided they submit their application within three years of leaving their Canadian job. |
The CEC is an excellent option for those who have already gained valuable Canadian work experience and wish to transition to permanent residency. It is also a key pathway for candidates who are already in Canada and looking to stay long-term, as the program is now a priority in Canada’s immigration strategy.
Eligibility for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is one of the three immigration streams managed by Canada's Express Entry system. It is specifically designed for skilled foreign workers who do not have Canadian work experience but want to immigrate to Canada.
The FSWP is also considered a priority under the "In-Canada Focus" category, in line with Canada’s updated immigration strategy.
To qualify for the FSWP, candidates must meet minimum requirements and score at least 67 out of 100 on the FSWP scoring grid. The grid evaluates candidates across various factors, including work experience, language skills, and education.
Minimum Eligibility Requirements for the FSWP
Work Experience: At least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience in the past 10 years in a skilled occupation classified as NOC TEER level 0, 1, 2, or 3.
Language Ability: A language proficiency equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 in either English or French. Candidates must take an approved language test from a recognized testing organization.
Education: A Canadian educational credential, or a foreign education credential with an Education Credential Assessment (ECA) to verify the equivalency of foreign education to Canadian standards.
Settlement Funds: Candidates must meet the settlement fund criteria, demonstrating sufficient funds to support themselves and their family upon arriving in Canada. This requirement may be waived if the candidate has arranged employment in Canada and is legally authorized to work there.
FSWP Scoring Grid: Candidates must achieve at least 67 points based on the selection factors listed below:
FSWP Selection Factors and Maximum Points
Selection Factor | Maximum Points |
Education | 25 points |
Language Skills | 28 points |
Work Experience | 15 points |
Age | 12 points |
Arranged Employment | 10 points |
Adaptability | 10 points |
Scoring Breakdown
Education: Points are awarded based on the level of education, such as secondary school, post-secondary diplomas, or degrees, with additional points for Canadian educational credentials.
Language Skills: Points are awarded based on the results of the approved language test. Higher CLB levels in speaking, listening, reading, and writing will earn more points.
Work Experience: Points are awarded based on the number of years of skilled work experience in the past 10 years. More years of work experience result in a higher score.
Age: Younger candidates (typically between 18-35) receive the highest points for age. As age increases, the points for this factor decrease.
Arranged Employment: Candidates with a valid job offer in Canada from a recognized employer can earn additional points. This is particularly beneficial for candidates already working in Canada or those with a confirmed job offer.
Adaptability: Points are given for factors such as Canadian education, a spouse’s language skills, past work experience in Canada, or family members in Canada, which demonstrate the candidate's ability to adapt to life in Canada.
Candidates must achieve a minimum score of 67 points on the FSWP scoring grid to be eligible for the program and enter the Express Entry pool. Those who meet the requirements and have a competitive CRS score are more likely to be invited to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry.
Eligibility for the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is one of the three programs managed by Canada’s Express Entry system. This program is designed for workers with skilled trades experience who want to become permanent residents in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements for the FSTP
To be eligible for the FSTP, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Job Offer or Certificate of Qualification:
A valid job offer from one or two employers in Canada for at least one year of continuous employment (minimum 30 hours per week), OR
A certificate of qualification from a provincial or territorial regulatory body in Canada for the skilled trade.
Language Proficiency:
Candidates must have a language proficiency equivalent to:
CLB level 5 for speaking and listening skills.
CLB level 4 for reading and writing skills.
This must be in either English or French. Language tests must be completed through an approved testing organization.
Work Experience:
At least two years of full-time skilled work experience (or an equivalent amount of part-time work) in an eligible skilled trade within the last five years before applying.
Demonstration of Skills:
Candidates must be able to demonstrate that they have the skills and experience to perform the essential duties of an eligible skilled trade, as outlined by the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
Eligible NOC Groups for the FSTP
The FSTP is available for tradespeople in eligible occupations, which are categorized by the 2021 NOC system. Under this system, skilled trades are classified within specific NOC groups. These occupations include, but are not limited to, fields like:
Construction trades (e.g., electricians, plumbers, carpenters)
Industrial and electrical trades (e.g., millwrights, industrial mechanics)
Maintenance trades (e.g., auto service technicians, heavy-duty equipment mechanics)
And other skilled trades in areas such as agriculture, food processing, and transport.
To see whether your occupation is eligible under the FSTP, you will need to review the NOC codes and the specific requirements for your trade.
Category-Based Draws for Skilled Tradespeople
Candidates under the FSTP may also be eligible for category-based draws under the Express Entry system for skilled trades. These draws are aimed at selecting candidates with specific skills or qualifications in high-demand sectors, such as healthcare, trades, and French-language proficiency.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply through Express Entry
The process for applying through Express Entry for the FSTP is similar to other Express Entry programs:
Eligibility Check: Ensure you meet the requirements for one of the Express Entry programs, as well as the basic admissibility requirements.
Language Testing and Credential Assessment:
Complete an approved language test (English or French) and obtain the results.
If your education was completed outside Canada, you will also need to get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to verify its equivalency to Canadian credentials.
Profile Submission: Submit your Express Entry profile on the IRCC website.
Wait for an ITA (Invitation to Apply): Your profile will be ranked in the Express Entry pool based on your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. If you meet the minimum CRS score threshold, you may be invited to apply for permanent residence.
Complete Application for PR: If you receive an ITA, you will have 60 days to submit a completed application for permanent residence, including medical exams and police certificates.
Final Decision: Once your application is processed, if approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, if necessary, a permanent resident visa to travel to Canada.
Documents Needed for Express Entry
Profile Stage
At the profile stage, you will need the following documents:
Passport/Travel Document: Basic identification information.
Language Test Results: To prove proficiency in English or French.
Proof of Education: Canadian or foreign credentials, with an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign qualifications.
Provincial Nomination: If applicable, include your provincial nomination.
Job Offer: Documentation of a written job offer from a Canadian employer, if applicable.
Proof of Work Experience: Records such as letters of employment to verify your work experience.
Certificate of Qualification: Required if you have a qualification from a Canadian authority in a trade occupation.
Proof of Funds: To demonstrate sufficient funds for settlement (unless exempt, such as in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)).
Application Stage
If you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you will need to submit additional documents, such as:
Police Certificates: From every country you’ve lived in for six months or more since age 18.
Medical Exam: Required for all applicants.
Proof of Funds: Updated financial documentation.
Marriage, Birth, or Divorce Certificates: Depending on your family situation.
How Long Does Express Entry Take?
CRS Ranking and ITA: Once your profile is submitted, the wait for an ITA can vary. If your CRS score is high enough, you may receive an ITA soon after entering the pool. However, if your score is lower, you may have to wait for months or longer.
PR Processing: Once you submit a complete PR application, IRCC aims to process applications within six months, although processing times may vary based on application volumes and backlogs.
Priority Categories under the Express Entry System
Canada's federal government has designated certain priority categories for Express Entry draws, which include:
French-language proficiency
Healthcare professionals
Skilled tradespeople
This focus aims to address labor shortages in key sectors while increasing the proportion of francophone immigration and skilled trades candidates in Canada’s workforce.
Determining Eligibility for Your Occupation
To determine if your occupation is eligible under the FSTP, you must check the National Occupation Classification (NOC) code for your trade. This system categorizes occupations based on their training, education, experience, and responsibilities (TEER).
Important: Choosing the correct NOC code is crucial. Using the wrong NOC code can result in delays, or even misrepresentation, leading to the refusal of your application.
Approved Language Tests for the French-Language Proficiency Category
To be eligible for the French-language proficiency category under the Express Entry system, candidates must meet the following requirements in addition to the basic admissibility and eligibility criteria for one of the Express Entry programs:
French-Language Test Results:
Candidates must provide proof of French-language proficiency at a minimum level of NCLC 7 (Niveau de compétence linguistique canadien) in all four tested skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
These results must come from one of the IRCC-approved language tests.
The approved French-language tests are:
TEF Canada: Test d’évaluation de français
TCF Canada: Test de connaissance du français
Test Results Validity:
Language test results are valid for up to two years from the date the results were received.
Valid test results are required both when candidates create their Express Entry profile and when they submit their permanent residence (PR) application.
Francophone Immigration Priority
As part of Canada's commitment to increasing the number of Francophone immigrants, the government has set a specific target for French-speaking immigrants. In the 2025 Immigration Levels Plan, the federal government aims for 8.5% of permanent resident admissions outside of Quebec to be Francophone candidates. This amounts to approximately 29,325 admissions.
This focus on Francophone immigration reflects Canada’s goal to enhance the diversity and linguistic balance of the country’s immigrant population, particularly outside of Quebec, where French is the dominant language.
Key Takeaways:
French-language proficiency at NCLC level 7 is required for the Express Entry French-language proficiency category.
Acceptable tests are TEF Canada and TCF Canada.
Valid for two years, so make sure to take the test before submitting your profile or PR application.
The Canadian government is prioritizing Francophone immigration, with a target of 8.5% of PR admissions in 2025.
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