Transitioning to Permanent Residence in Quebec

Skilled workers who receive a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ) through the Regular Skilled Worker Program are one step closer to becoming permanent residents of Canada. But what happens next?

The CSQ is issued by the Government of Québec, but the journey doesn’t end there. To finalize your Canada immigration process and successfully integrate into Québec society, several important steps must be taken—both with the federal government and at the provincial level.

Step 1: Apply for Permanent Residence

Once you receive your CSQ, you must submit a permanent residence (PR) application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This federal step is mandatory and follows the CSQ approval.

Step 2: Obtain an Open Work Permit Abroad (IMP+)

If you're outside Canada and hold a valid CSQ, you may qualify for the International Mobility Program Plus (IMP+), which allows you to apply for an open work permit. This option fast-tracks your arrival in Québec and helps you integrate into the local labor market while awaiting PR.

Step 3: Renewing Your Work Permit (If in Québec)

Already working in Québec? Keeping your Canada work permit valid is essential during the PR process. The path to renewal depends on whether you've submitted your federal PR application:

• No PR Application Submitted: You can apply for an employer-specific work permit, exempt from LMIA but requiring a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ). Your employer must also register in IRCC’s Employer Portal and pay compliance fees.
• PR Application Submitted: You’ll need to assess whether you've received an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR). This affects your eligibility for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) or other transitional permits.

Step 4: Transitioning to Permanent Residence Status

Upon becoming a permanent resident, it’s crucial to update key personal documents:

• Social Insurance Number (SIN): Apply for a permanent SIN through IRCC.
• Health Insurance (RAMQ): Submit a new application. Coverage may not begin immediately—private insurance is recommended during the 3-month waiting period.
• Driver’s Licence: Apply for a Québec driver’s licence to maintain driving privileges.

Calculate Your CRS Points

Integration: Get Settled in Québec

Whether you're in Québec or planning to arrive, integration begins now. 

Here's how to get started:

• Register for Accompagnement Québec, the official integration support service.
• Explore the “Settle and Integrate in Québec” guide for essential tips.
• Take online French courses provided by the Government of Québec.
• Begin the credential recognition process for qualifications earned abroad.
• Join the Québec Emploi platform if invited, to search and apply for jobs online.

Welcome to Québec

Arriving through Montréal-Trudeau International Airport? Personnel from the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) will greet you. They’ll offer key information sessions to help ease your transition.

Final Thoughts

While receiving your Quebec Selection Certificate is a major achievement, it’s just one part of the Canada immigration journey. Completing the federal PR process, maintaining valid work status, and beginning integration efforts early are critical steps toward success in Québec.

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Tags: Quebec Selection Certificate Regular Skilled Worker Program Quebec Permanent Residency Open Work Permit Settle in Quebec Bridging Open Work Permit Canada Immigration News