Quebec PNP Draw Targets Regulated Professions – Aug 2024 Update

Quebec Invites Skilled Workers in Regulated Professions Under PSTQ: What You Need to Know

Great news for skilled professionals looking to build a future in Quebec! The province has just issued a new round of invitations for permanent selection under its Skilled Worker Selection Program (Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés, or PSTQ). What makes this round especially noteworthy is that it’s the first time Quebec has specifically targeted candidates from the regulated professions stream.

If you’re a foreign-trained professional aiming to settle in Quebec, this development could open the door to exciting new opportunities. Let’s dive into what this latest draw means, who’s eligible, and how you can take the next steps.

Key Highlights

• Quebec invited 275 candidates under the PSTQ’s regulated professions stream on August 14.
• Applicants needed a minimum score of 766 and had to be living in Quebec.
• This marks the first PSTQ draw focusing on regulated professions since the stream launched.
• French language proficiency and recognized professional credentials are mandatory.
• The stream applies to certain occupations that require a license to work in Quebec.
• Candidates must either hold authorization to practise or have equivalency recognition for their credentials.

What Happened in the August 14 PSTQ Draw?

On August 14, 2024, Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration issued 275 invitations to skilled workers under the PSTQ’s regulated professions stream. This is a major milestone, as it’s the first time the province has focused on this specific group through the PSTQ.

To be eligible for this draw, candidates had to meet several key criteria:

• A minimum selection score of 766 or higher
• Currently residing in Quebec
• A professional goal to practice in a regulated occupation (classified under FEER categories 0, 1, or 2)
• French language skills of at least level 7 (speaking/listening) and level 5 (reading/writing)
• An accompanying spouse (if applicable) must have French speaking/listening skills at level 4 or higher

This draw highlights how important language proficiency and professional recognition are when applying through Quebec’s skilled worker streams.

Understanding the Regulated Professions Stream

The Regulated Professions stream is designed for foreign nationals whose intended occupation in Quebec is in a field that requires official licensing. These are jobs where you can’t legally work unless you have the proper authorization — think doctors, engineers, and lawyers, to name a few.

Candidates must have their profession listed on the official List of Regulated Professions maintained by Quebec’s Ministère. This list outlines which jobs are regulated and what you’ll need to qualify.

Two Types of Occupations in This Stream

Here’s a quick breakdown of how the province classifies regulated jobs:

• Fully Regulated Occupations: All positions within this occupation require a license. For example, mechanical engineers fall into this category.
• Partially Regulated Occupations: Only certain job roles within the occupation are regulated. For instance, criminologists within the social sciences group may qualify depending on their specific duties.

Some occupations are only considered regulated if performed in a particular industry — like carpenters working in construction.

Required Documentation

To be eligible under this stream, you’ll need documentation from the regulatory authority that oversees your profession in Quebec. This can be one of the following:

• Authorization to practise your profession in Quebec
• Proof of full or partial recognition of your foreign training or diploma (issued in the last 5 years)

It’s important to note that recognition of equivalency doesn’t grant you the right to practise — it’s a step that shows your credentials are considered comparable to those earned in Quebec. From there, further licensure or certification may still be needed.

Why This Matters for Immigration to Quebec

This latest draw is a clear signal that Quebec is eager to attract qualified professionals who are already in the province and ready to contribute. By focusing on regulated professions, the province ensures that newcomers are equipped to hit the ground running in fields that are essential to Quebec’s economy and services.

If your occupation is regulated and you’re living in Quebec, this could be a golden opportunity to move closer to permanent residency. But even if you’re outside Quebec or work in a non-regulated field, there are still many other pathways to consider — such as the Manitoba PNP or federal Express Entry system.

Next Steps: How to Prepare

If you think you might qualify under the regulated professions stream, here’s what you can do:

• Check if your occupation is on Quebec’s List of Regulated Professions.
• Start the process of getting your credentials recognized by the appropriate regulatory authority.
• Boost your French language skills — it’s not just a requirement, it’s a major advantage in Quebec.
• Keep your profile updated so you’re ready when the next draw happens.

Final Thoughts

With Quebec’s recent invitation round targeting regulated professionals, the province has made it clear it values individuals who are not only skilled, but also committed to integrating into Quebec society. If you’re a qualified professional already living in Quebec — or planning to settle there — now’s the time to explore your options.

Need help navigating your pathway to permanent residency in Quebec or elsewhere in Canada? We’re here to help. Whether you’re aiming to apply through the PSTQ or considering other streams like the Manitoba PNP, we’ve got resources and tools to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to take the next step toward your Canadian dream?

Contact us today or read more about your immigration options to start planning your future in Quebec!