Quebec PNP Draw: 231 Skilled Worker Invitations Issued
Quebec Issues 231 Invitations Under the Skilled Worker Selection Program: What You Need to Know
On August 28, 2025, Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration (MIFI) extended 231 invitations to immigration candidates interested in settling in the province. These invitations were part of the Skilled Worker Selection Program (known in French as Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés or PSTQ).
If you’re a skilled professional considering immigration to Quebec, this latest draw is definitely worth paying attention to. Let’s walk through the details and what they could mean for your immigration journey.
Key Highlights
- 231 candidates were invited to apply for the Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) on August 28, 2025
- Invitations were issued under two specific PSTQ streams: Highly Qualified Skills and Exceptional Talent
- Most candidates (227) came through the Highly Qualified Skills stream for those already in Quebec with recognized education
- Four individuals were invited under the Exceptional Talent stream, which targets PhD holders with recent professional experience
- Quebec has announced additional proposed changes to immigration targets and program criteria for 2026–2029
- Suspensions remain in place for several immigration streams, including the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
Understanding the August 28 Quebec Immigration Draw
This draw was part of Quebec’s ongoing effort to attract skilled professionals who can contribute to the province’s economy and society. The 231 invitations were divided between two specialized streams within the PSTQ.
Stream 1: Highly Qualified and Specialized Skills
The bulk of the invitations—227 in total—were issued under Stream 1, which is aimed at candidates who are already living in Quebec and possess post-secondary education from within the province.
To qualify, these candidates had to meet the following criteria:
- Currently reside in Quebec
- Hold a diploma from a recognized Quebec institution:
- University-level education: minimum 30 credits completed
- College or vocational diploma: program of at least 900 hours
- Score at least 760 points under Quebec’s immigration points system
In addition to those requirements, applicants must meet all other PSTQ Stream 1 eligibility criteria.
Stream 4: Exceptional Talent
The remaining four invitations were issued through Stream 4, which targets candidates with exceptional backgrounds and abilities.
Specifically, these candidates needed to:
- Hold a PhD
- Have at least three years of professional experience in their primary field within the last five years
Of course, they also needed to meet the full set of Stream 4 eligibility requirements.
Recent Provincial Immigration Changes in Quebec
Alongside the August draw, Quebec has been making some notable changes to its overall immigration strategy. These updates are part of a broader plan to refine how the province manages newcomers over the next several years.
Measures Already Implemented
Some changes have already been rolled out, including:
- Suspension of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) – The Worker stream of this popular pathway to permanent residence is on hold until November 30, 2025
- The PEQ – Diplôme stream is also suspended through the same date
- Reopening of the PSTQ is scheduled for July 2025
- Suspension of refugee sponsorships under the Program for Refugees Abroad (Collective Sponsorship) remains in place until December 31, 2027
Proposed Changes for 2026 to 2029
Looking further ahead, Quebec has laid out proposed policy directions for the years 2026–2029. While not yet finalized, the proposals include:
- Setting targets for the number of temporary residents allowed in the province
- Gradual reduction of temporary foreign workers from 72,000 to around 65,000 over four years
- Halving the number of temporary foreign workers in Montreal
- Giving preference to temporary residents already in Quebec when granting permanent residence
- Mandating French language proficiency for temporary workers seeking work permit renewal
These proposals were open to public consultation until August 15, 2025, and a finalized immigration levels plan is expected to be released in October 2025.
Why This Matters for Future Quebec Immigration Applicants
Quebec’s immigration system is unique in Canada. It operates separately from federal programs and often has different eligibility requirements, selection criteria, and priorities. The focus on French language skills, for example, is much stronger in Quebec than in other provinces.
For aspiring newcomers, this means two things:
- You’ll need to carefully review Quebec’s specific criteria before applying
- You may benefit from targeting one of the province’s in-demand streams, like PSTQ or the (currently paused) PEQ, when it reopens
It’s also worth noting that Quebec continues to value candidates who are already in the province and contributing to the local economy—especially those studying or working in specialized fields.
If you’re exploring other Canadian immigration options, be sure to check out our guide to the Manitoba PNP—another excellent provincial pathway for skilled immigrants.
Final Thoughts
The August 28 draw is a strong signal that Quebec is actively seeking skilled workers and high-potential individuals to help shape its future. While some programs remain suspended, others are still accepting new candidates—and more changes are on the horizon.
Whether you’re a current international student, a foreign worker, or someone with exceptional qualifications, now is a great time to prepare and position yourself for upcoming opportunities in Quebec.
Want to stay updated on Quebec immigration news and Canadian immigration pathways? Don’t miss our upcoming posts on provincial nominee programs and federal draws. Or reach out to us for personalized guidance on your immigration journey.
Thinking beyond Quebec? Explore your options in other provinces with our in-depth guides, like the Manitoba PNP.
