Quebec is set to reopen its three Permanent Immigration Pilot Programs on January 13, 2025, offering a renewed opportunity for skilled workers to achieve Canadian permanent residency (PR). These initiatives, originally launched in 2021, aim to address the province’s labor shortages in critical industries while supporting economic growth and fostering cultural diversity.
Here’s a comprehensive overview of these programs, including their eligibility criteria and key features:
1. Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Food Processing Workers (PP TA)
This program targets workers in Quebec’s vital food and beverage manufacturing sectors.
Key Requirements:
- Age: 18 years or older.
- Education: Secondary school diploma or professional studies diploma from Quebec (minimum one-year program).
- Work Experience: 24 months of full-time work in an eligible sector within the last three years.
- French Proficiency: Level 7 on the Quebec Scale of Competency Levels.
- Eligible Occupations: Roles in sectors like food manufacturing (e.g., meat and seafood processing) and beverage production.
- Financial Independence: Proof of financial self-sufficiency.
This program will accept up to 600 applications between January 13, 2025, and December 31, 2025.
2. Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Beneficiary Attendants (PP PAB)
Designed to fill gaps in Quebec’s healthcare sector, this program includes two components: the work component and the work-study component.
Common Eligibility Criteria:
- Age: 18 years or older.
- French Proficiency: Level 7 on the Quebec Scale.
- Work Experience: Full-time, paid work in the healthcare sector.
Component-Specific Requirements:
- Work Component:
- 24 months of full-time experience as a beneficiary attendant or equivalent in healthcare.
- Relevant diploma in a healthcare-related field.
- Work-Study Component:
- Completion of a Quebec vocational studies diploma (870 hours) for beneficiary attendants.
- At least 12 months of work experience as a beneficiary attendant post-graduation.
This program will also accept 600 applications in 2025.
3. Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Workers in Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, and Visual Effects (PP IA/TI-EV)
Quebec’s tech sector has seen exponential growth, and this program seeks to attract top talent in artificial intelligence (AI), information technology (IT), and visual effects (VFX).
Key Highlights:
- Two Components:
- AI Component: Open to both foreign workers and Quebec graduates.
- IT/VFX Component: Focused on professionals in IT and visual effects.
- Eligibility for Foreign Workers:
- Diploma equivalent to a Quebec baccalaureate.
- 24 months of relevant work experience in a high-demand field.
- Eligibility for Quebec Graduates:
- Diploma from a Quebec university (DESS, master’s, or doctorate) obtained within the last 24 months.
- Full-time employment in AI or IT/VFX sectors in Quebec.
The PP IA/TI-EV program will accept 600 applications, evenly split between its two components, with a maximum of 150 spots reserved for candidates in the Francisation profile.
Francisation Profile: Prioritizing French Integration
For all three programs, candidates opting for the Francisation profile must demonstrate French-speaking proficiency (Level 7 or equivalent) and provide supporting documents such as French test results or transcripts of French-language education.
Program Deadlines and Impact
These pilot programs will remain open until December 31, 2025, and are set to expire on January 1, 2026. With a combined total of 1,800 applications across the three programs, Quebec aims to strategically tackle labor shortages while reinforcing its linguistic and cultural identity.
A Step Forward for Immigration Aspirants
Whether you’re an aspiring tech professional, a healthcare worker, or a food processing expert, Quebec’s pilot programs provide a unique gateway to Canadian permanent residency. Beyond fulfilling labor market needs, these programs contribute to Quebec’s thriving economy and inclusive society.
For detailed eligibility requirements and application guidelines, visit the Quebec government website.
