Quebec invites 523 candidates in July 30 PSTQ draw
Quebec issued 523 invitations for permanent selection on July 30, 2026, through its Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ). The round covered all four program streams and included candidates already living in the province.
The selection process drew from profiles submitted in the Arrima system, with extraction taking place on July 27, 2026. Invitations were distributed across skill levels, with the largest share directed to candidates in intermediate and manual occupations.
This latest round marks the seventh PSTQ selection exercise conducted by Quebec in 2026, reflecting ongoing adjustments to intake volumes and labour market priorities.
- 523 invitations issued on July 30, 2026
- Selections conducted across all four PSTQ streams
- Majority of invitations allocated to TEER 3–5 occupations
- Profiles selected from Arrima pool on July 27, 2026
- Seventh PSTQ draw held by Quebec in 2026
Distribution of invitations across program streams
The PSTQ operates through four streams, each targeting different categories of skilled workers. Invitations in this round were spread across all streams, with varying cut-off scores and eligibility requirements.
Stream 2, which focuses on intermediate and manual occupations, received the highest number of invitations. This reflects Quebec’s continued emphasis on addressing labour shortages in essential and operational roles.
Stream 1: Highly qualified and specialized skills
A total of 105 invitations were issued under Stream 1 for candidates employed in TEER 0 to 2 occupations. Applicants were required to reside in Quebec and demonstrate at least one year of recent work experience.
Three selection exercises were conducted within this stream, each with distinct score thresholds. Cut-off scores ranged from 651 to 702 depending on occupation and eligibility criteria.
Priority occupations included roles in health care, education support, and scientific research. Specific examples included early childhood educators, pharmacy technicians, and social service workers.
Stream 2: Intermediate and manual skills
Stream 2 accounted for 296 invitations, the largest share of the July 30 round. Candidates in TEER 3 to 5 occupations were targeted, with all required to be residing in Quebec at the time of selection.
Three exercises were also conducted in this stream, with cut-off scores ranging from 621 to 702. The largest subgroup included 249 invitations issued to candidates in TEER 4 or 5 occupations without occupation-specific targeting.
Other targeted roles included nurse aides, home support workers, and educational assistants. A smaller group focused on occupations such as cooks and cleaners.
Stream 3: Regulated professions
A total of 110 invitations were issued to candidates intending to work in regulated professions. These roles typically require certification or licensing from Quebec authorities.
Cut-off scores varied significantly across three exercises, ranging from 376 to 700. The lowest threshold applied to candidates in TEER 4 or 5 regulated occupations.
Priority occupations included a wide range of healthcare and education roles, such as physicians, nurses, psychologists, and teachers. Technical roles in diagnostics and therapy were also included.
Stream 4: Exceptional talent
Stream 4 accounted for a small number of invitations, with 12 candidates selected across two exercises. This stream targets individuals with significant professional achievements or advanced academic credentials.
One category required a positive assessment from a designated partner organization, while another focused on candidates holding a doctoral-level qualification and recognized accomplishments.
How the PSTQ selection system operates
The Skilled Worker Selection Program is Quebec’s primary pathway for economic immigration. It uses a declaration-of-interest model, where candidates first submit profiles through the Arrima platform.
Profiles are assessed based on multiple factors, including occupation, work experience, education, and language ability. Candidates are then ranked within the pool, with invitations issued during periodic selection rounds.
The structure of the PSTQ differs from federal selection systems such as Express Entry. While both rely on ranking mechanisms, Quebec maintains control over its own selection criteria and occupational targeting.
Readers tracking similar provincial activity can review recent draws across Canada through the All Draws Index, which compiles updates from multiple provinces and federal programs.
Program context and 2026 policy adjustments
Quebec’s 2026 immigration strategy includes adjustments to the balance between the PSTQ and the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ). The PEQ reopened on July 2, 2026, introducing additional intake pressures.
To remain within its multi-year immigration targets, Quebec has reduced the volume of PSTQ invitations during parts of 2026. Current draws show a stronger focus on candidates in lower TEER categories and those with shorter work experience.
This shift reflects efforts to diversify labour market entry pathways while maintaining control over total admissions. The allocation of invitations across streams demonstrates how occupational needs are being prioritized.
Authorities have indicated that invitation volumes may be reassessed later in the year. Adjustments are expected after reviewing the number of applications received through the PEQ intake period ending October 31, 2026.
Role of occupation-based selection
Occupation continues to play a central role in Quebec’s selection decisions. Each PSTQ stream aligns with specific groups under the National Occupational Classification system.
In this July draw, priority lists included a combination of healthcare professionals, skilled trades, technical specialists, and service workers. The range of occupations reflects ongoing workforce demands across multiple sectors.
Selection criteria varied not only by occupation but also by experience, education, and whether applicants met additional program conditions. Score thresholds differed significantly between exercises within the same stream.
This targeted approach allows Quebec to adjust selection parameters between draws. As a result, invitation patterns can shift frequently based on labour market needs.
Next steps in the selection process
Candidates who receive invitations under the PSTQ are required to submit a complete application for permanent selection. Successful applicants are issued a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ).
The CSQ enables individuals to apply for permanent residence through the federal immigration system. Final approval remains under federal jurisdiction, following health, security, and admissibility checks.
Quebec’s dual-stage process distinguishes it from other provincial nominee programs, where nomination directly supports federal permanent residence applications.
The July 30 draw remains part of a broader sequence of selection rounds planned throughout 2026, with 523 invitations issued in a single exercise covering all four PSTQ streams.