Immigration Options After PEQ Closure: Pathways for Canada PR
For those who were hoping to immigrate to Canada through the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), its recent suspension may feel discouraging. However, many other pathways to permanent residency (PR) are still available.
On June 5, Quebec’s immigration authority announced a pause on the PEQ’s worker stream until November 30, 2025. If you missed your chance to apply via the PEQ, don’t worry! There are multiple provincial and federal options tailored for skilled workers and international graduates.
Exploring Quebec’s Skilled Worker Selection Program
If you’re interested in settling in Quebec, consider the Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ). This program has four streams:
- Stream 1: Highly qualified individuals with specialized skills.
- Stream 2: Intermediate and manual skills for those with at least two years of experience.
- Stream 3: Regulated professions requiring specific licensing.
- Stream 4: Exceptional talent in strategic areas recognized by the province.
All PSTQ candidates must sign a provincial values attestation.
Opportunities outside Quebec
If you’re open to exploring job options outside Quebec, provinces such as New Brunswick and Ontario offer valuable immigration pathways, including the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The PNP allows provinces to nominate individuals for PR based on local labour needs.
Federal Immigration Options through Express Entry
For settling in other provinces, Canada’s Express Entry system could be an excellent avenue for PR. This system evaluates candidates using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which considers factors like Canadian work experience and education. Those with strong French skills may find themselves particularly competitive, as these candidates often have lower CRS cut-off scores.
Eligible federal immigration programs under Express Entry include:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Requires at least one year of skilled Canadian work experience.
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled workers with either Canadian or foreign experience.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Tailored for skilled tradespeople.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program is another great path, designed to help employers in Atlantic Canada fill positions. Candidates need a job offer from a designated employer and are evaluated based on their work experience and educational qualifications.
The Importance of Job Search Platforms
While using job platforms like Job Bank and LinkedIn can be beneficial, VisaJobsCanada.com is particularly valuable for international candidates. Every job listed on this site includes visa sponsorship, making it easier for you to find employment opportunities that fit your needs.
In summary, while the PEQ may be on hold, several pathways to Canadian PR remain open. Whether you choose Quebec’s local programs or explore federal options through Express Entry, resources like VisaJobsCanada.com can help you navigate the job market.
What do you think?
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