IMMIGRATION TO CANADA
Do you want to live in Canada?
We know Canada as the country of North America, its urban megacities and charming villages, its natural scenery haloed by blue lakes, its vast territories that are home to international companies, cultural festivals and sports resorts. How to immigrate to Canada? How to be selected? How to settle in Canada? HP & Associates will help you with your immigration project. Here is an overview of what you need to know to facilitate your immigration process in the beautiful province of Quebec or in Canada.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
HOW TO IMMIGRATE TO CANADA?
FEDERAL AND PROVINCIAL GATEWAYS
Whether it’s the quality of life in Canada, the professional opportunities, the educational system, the support for immigrant entrepreneurs, a major project or a taste for adventure… something resonated with you. There’s nothing random about choosing a new destination, is there? However, from the desire to leave to the installation in the country, there are several steps to follow… Helping you settle is one of the key roles of HP & Associés, a relocation agency. It starts with finding the right entry point…
Canada is a federal country that brings together and administers ten provinces and three territories. The provinces have a certain amount of autonomy and jurisdiction. For example, the provincial governments are sovereign – within the limits set by the Canadian constitution – in matters of health, education, trade and property.
In matters of immigration, jurisdiction is shared between the federal government and the provinces. For Quebec, the Canada-Quebec Accord Relating to Immigration and Temporary Admission of Aliens (Canada-Quebec Accord) provides a framework for this sharing of responsibilities, allowing Quebec to plan levels of immigration, selection, francization and integration of immigrants. A way to recognize and promote the distinct character of Quebec’s French-speaking society.
Quebec’s objective: to select permanent immigrants who will enhance Quebec’s prosperity, the durability and vitality of the French language, the dynamism of the regions and the international influence of Quebec.
It should be noted that while the selection of candidates for immigration is done by Quebec, admission to Canada is done at the federal level, which explains this shared jurisdiction between the provincial and federal levels.
MOVING TO CANADA
Between the consequences of the pandemic and the new rules of the game, the great crossing to Canada can be like a journey at high tide. If the lengthening of delays and waiting lists can slow down the enthusiasm of certain candidates for immigration, the government of Canada nevertheless plans to increase the level of permanent immigration in the coming years. The goal is to welcome more than 400,000 people each year starting in 2021, or 1.2 million people by 2023. In order to open the doors a little more, the federal government has made the process of obtaining permanent residency more flexible (it remains to be seen how long these measures will last).
THE "FRANCOPHONE MOBILITY" PROGRAM
The specific Canadian program “Mobilité Francophone” leads to open the doors a little wider to Francophones.
THE "EXPRESS ENTRY" SYSTEM
Under the Express Entry system for Francophone immigration, applications are generally processed within six months or less (these dealines can fluctuate, consult the processing times updated on government sites). This process is intended for skilled immigrants who wish to settle permanently in Canada.
ADMISSION TO CANADA
To be admitted to Canada, you must apply for permanent residence. The Citizenship and Immigration Canada website has a “Living in Canada” tool that will help you find the right resources and services to apply for admission.
SETTLING IN QUEBEC
The “Certificat de Sélection du Québec” (CSQ) is the key to your entry into Quebec. However, since July 22, 2020, new selection conditions apply to temporary foreign workers and Quebec graduates. The reform of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) affects processing times and provides transitional measures for certain people already in Quebec.
IN THE BEGINNING: SELECTION
Immigration is a shared jurisdiction between the governments of Quebec and Canada. While Québec can select candidates who wish to live on its territory, it is Canada that authorizes the right of landing (temporary and permanent) to immigrants residing in Québec.
OBTAINING THE CERTIFICAT DE SÉLECTION DU QUÉBEC (CSQ)
Obtaining the Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ) issued by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) du Québec is the official document to obtain in order to immigrate permanently to Québec.
As a skilled worker, you will have to choose between:
- the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), Quebec graduate or temporary foreign worker
- the Regular Skilled Worker Program
REFORM OF THE PEQ
With the reform of the PEQ on July 22, 2020, new selection conditions apply and the traditional 20-working-day waiting period has been extended to 6 months.
Consult the MIFI (Ministère de l’Immigration, Francisation et Intégration) websites to learn more about the Quebec Experience Program and the PEQ transitional measures.
Think about the costs associated with immigration and your arrival
It is important to consider the costs of the immigration process:
- administrative fees (government services, document translations, properly formatted passport photos, etc.)
- Immigration lawyer or regulated consultant fees if necessary
- international moving costs
- airfare, cab or rental car
- travel insurance
- health insurance for expatriates
Need temporary housing? Are you looking for a place to stay for a few days (in a hotel or furnished), or renting a place to stay for the medium or long term, the time to explore your new country or to find a place to live? HP & Associés will assist and guide you throughout this process, for example:
- renting an apartment
- choosing your neighborhood
IMMIGRATION TO QUEBEC STEP BY STEP: GUIDED TOUR
What are the steps to follow to settle in Quebec? Here is a short guided tour for prospective immigrants, whether they wish to settle temporarily or permanently.
To be eligible, you must have training and professional skills that will facilitate your integration into employment in Quebec. Other factors are taken into account, such as your language skills, your age, the characteristics of your spouse and the presence of children.
To read: Selection grid for the Regular Skilled Worker Program
A self-assessment tool will give you an idea of the score corresponding to your candidate profile.
If you wish to immigrate to Quebec permanently to work, you must declare your interest in immigrating to Quebec. Several pieces of information are requested in the form. If your profile matches the criteria sought in Quebec, you will receive an invitation to submit an application for permanent selection.
Fill out a declaration of interest in immigrating to Quebec
The new Arrima platform aims to match immigration to the needs of the Quebec labour market. Since January 26, 2021, it is possible to create a profile, provide information, submit your required proof documents, your Application for Permanent Selection form, pay the required fees and finally submit your file.
Selection grid, information and services
To fill out a declaration of interest in immigrating to Quebec, to submit an application for permanent selection, to obtain a request for a comparative evaluation of studies or any answer concerning your immigration file, consult the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) website.
YOU WANT TO WORK OR STUDY IN CANADA?
DOORS OPEN TO A NEW LIFE PROJECT OR JOB OPPORTUNITY
A diversified economy, jobs available in all regions, abundant natural resources and a strong knowledge and technology sector, support for entrepreneurship, a stable political environment: these are all exciting employment and business opportunities. And there is no shortage of opportunities for business expansion in Canada, supported by free trade agreements with the United States, Mexico and many other countries.
THE GREAT CROSSING: AN OCEAN OF OPPORTUNITY?
Making a new start is an exciting experience, provided that you are able to navigate the administrative maze with skill. If you are well prepared, this great crossing could lead you to an ocean of opportunities. There are several immigration programs for skilled workers and as many avenues to guide you. A good start begins by choosing the right program for the right path… Which candidate are you? What is your intention to leave?
WELCOME TO SKILLED WORKERS!
There are specific immigration programs for skilled workers, such as the Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP)
This program is for people who wish to immigrate to Quebec as a skilled worker, from Quebec or from abroad.
Note: You already have your work permit in hand? It may be time to register with a professional order to obtain the right to practice a profession governed by the Professional Code.
Or the Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ)
This program is intended for temporary foreign workers or foreign students who have graduated from Quebec.
Some professions are particularly and actively sought after in Quebec:
- Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Food Processing Workers
- Permanent immigration pilot program for orderlies (caregivers)
- Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology and Visual Effects Workers
ITINERARY OF THE TEMPORARY WORKER
Quebec is the largest province in Canada. Located at the crossroads between Europe and North America, it offers quick access to the major cities of New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Detroit, Toronto… Looking for a temporary job in Quebec? Here is a short itinerary in three steps.
It is up to the employer to file an application and the required documents with Service Canada and MIFI, and to demonstrate that no Quebec workers can be found for this position.
It is the immigrant's turn to apply for a work permit at the visa office serving his or her country or region or to submit the application online at the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
The temporary work permit is issued by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) at the border. A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) may be required.
Occupations in demand in Canada
Some in-demand occupations do not require a work permit. You may be able to work without a permit.
Consult the list on the Canadian immigration website: Do you need a work permit to work in Canada?
STUDY PERMIT
FOREIGN STUDENT PROGRAM
Do you want to live in Québec during and after your studies?
To learn more about the school system in Quebec, Quebec universities and immigration procedures such as the Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) for your studies, consult our page dedicated to this topic: Schools and universities in Quebec.
The Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration has set up virtual information sessions for foreign students registered in a Quebec educational institution who wish to stay and work in Quebec: Living in Quebec after your studies.
QUEBEC EXPERIENCE PROGRAM (PEQ) - QUEBEC GRADUATE
An international student who has graduated from a Quebec institution and is eligible for the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) with work experience in Quebec (between 12 and 18 months) and full-time employment may apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) as a skilled worker and under certain conditions (for example, mastery of French). The response time is six months.
QUEBEC... AND THE REST OF CANADA?
Canada is vast. Each province offers a choice of life. In addition to French-speaking Quebec, other provinces in Canada could be a good match for your aspirations, such as Toronto, Vancouver or Alberta. Canada is a vast country full of jobs and business opportunities. To continue the adventure and to learn more about the immigration process and its particularities, you can consult: Extending your study permit in Canada.
To work and stay in Canada after your studies, there is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
You can consult the Canadian government website on the post-graduation work permit.
Canada’s desire to welcome more Francophones outside of Quebec has resulted in Francophone and bilingual applicants receiving additional points in the Express Entry system. Express Entry is the gateway for processing applications for permanent residence under the following federal economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
- Provincial Nominee Program
Visit the Canadian government website to learn more about the Express Entry program for Francophone immigrants.
Other possible doors to immigrate to Canada
- Sponsorship of a family member
- Provincial Nominees
- Quebec-selected skilled workers
- Atlantic Canada Immigration Pilot Program
- Live-in caregivers
- Business Start-Up Visa
- Self-Employed Persons
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot Program
- Agri-Food Pilot Program
- Pathway to Permanent Residence for Health Care Workers
- Temporary to Permanent Residence Pathway
- Pathways to Permanent Residence for Hong Kong Residents
- Refugees
For more information on all of these programs (subject to change in content and form), visit the Canadian Immigration website: Immigrating to Canada.
WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THIS CHOSEN IMMIGRATION?
A good place to start: Destination Canada Forum Mobilité
Destination Canada Forum Mobilité is an annual event organized by the Government of Canada to bring together employers and Francophone candidates.
OPENING OF WORK PERMITS
Tens of thousands of temporary foreign workers in Canada will be able to obtain open work permits in certain cases while waiting for their permanent residence. This easing of the rules has the advantage of allowing workers to change employers more easily.
Expert advice from your real estate agent and broker
Be aware that obtaining the Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ) does not confer citizenship status in Canada. Consider preserving the validity of your temporary resident status while waiting to obtain permanent residence.
LIVING IN CANADA: PERMANENT RESIDENCE - TEMPORARY RESIDENCE - CANADIAN CITIZENSHIP
Permanent or temporary residence? When the attraction of a province or a country turns into a life choice… you take another step…
PERMANENT IMMIGRATION
Permanent immigration includes three main categories: economic immigration, family reunification and humanitarian immigration. Only economic immigration is based exclusively on the choice of Quebec, in the spirit of filling positions or sectors of activity in the province. With this objective, newcomers often correspond to a socio-professional profile and a sought-after workforce, as skilled workers, entrepreneurs and self-employed workers, or economic investors. Canada is responsible for the family reunification and humanitarian immigration categories.
TEMPORARY IMMIGRATION
Temporary immigration mainly concerns temporary foreign workers and foreign students with a good command of the French language. They are received in order to quickly fill a specific need for jobs in a context of shortage. However, these temporary foreign workers and Quebec graduates can apply for selection to stay in Quebec permanently, thanks to the Quebec Experience Program. Created in 2010, this accelerated skilled worker selection program has allowed for a significant increase in temporary immigration over the past ten years.
Temporary workers in Quebec
Number of people holding at least one valid permit as of December 31, 2019:
15,480 in the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP);
56,200 in the International Mobility Program (PMI);
87,285 in the International Student (IS) category.
Paths to work and business
The Express website has compiled a list of essential sites for job hunting, creating or developing a business in Quebec and Canada.
CANADIAN CITIZENSHIP
A permanent resident who has obtained permanent resident status by immigrating to Canada is not yet a Canadian citizen. Their Permanent Resident (PR) card gives them certain rights and benefits, such as: health care coverage; residing, working or studying in Canada; and the protection of Canadian laws and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Unlike Canadian citizens, they do not have the right to vote or hold a high security job. It is important to note that in order to retain Permanent Resident status, you must have spent at least 1,095 days (continuously or discontinuously) in Canada in the last five years.
If they wish, permanent residents can apply for Canadian citizenship by submitting an application for citizenship, then passing the citizenship test and interview, followed by the citizenship ceremony. To become a Canadian citizen, most permanent residents must still have declared income and demonstrated language skills in English or French. Other requirements may apply.
Good news: With some exceptions, you can apply for Canadian citizenship online from your living room. The process is in three steps:
- 1. Obtain an “application kit”.
- 2. Pay the application fee (adult: $630 – minor 18 years and under: $100)
- 3. Send in your application
Visit the Government of Canada website to learn more about Canadian citizenship.
READY FOR THE ADVENTURE OF A SUCCESSFUL IMMIGRATION TO CANADA?
To prepare for life in Quebec or Canada, HP & Associates offers you personalized assistance. In addition to information on the typical path of the candidate to immigration, benefit from the advice of professionals dedicated to your installation. Our team is there for you and to welcome you with peace of mind… Proud partner of your installation in Quebec.
THE HELP OF HP & ASSOCIÉS REAL ESTATE AGENCY
HP & Associés real estate agency will help you to:
- Familiarize yourself with the immigration process
- Tame this time of adaptation
- Help you immerse yourself in the local culture
- Explore employment opportunities
- Find your home
- Approach this project with serenity
YOUR ASPIRATIONS. OUR EXPERTISE.
Each great crossing is a human adventure. Each immigration project is unique and carries an aspiration. Whatever your wish, we are at your disposal. Providing you with the important information is a matter of priority and expertise. For the past 12 years, we have made this our business. Building the horizon of your new home together is more than a process. It is a state of mind that we cultivate and that sets us apart. Welcoming you to your new home is important to us. For an immigration project that resembles you… HP & Associés opens the door to your aspirations!
