April 7, 2014
Quebec’s immigration programmes to accept new applications
The province of Quebec announced it will be accepting new application for the three of its immigration programs. These programs are:
The Quebec Skilled Worker Programme (QSWP);
This program is compared to the Federal Skilled worker program; however, Quebec applies a point based system in which an applicant can earn a maximum of 22 points and language is a key component.
All applicants must be qualified to work in one of the 146 listed professions. Emphasis is placed on careers in nursing and engineering. The time frame to accept applications is from April 1 2014 to March 31, 2015. During this time 6,500 applications will be accepted for review by the Government of Quebec.
According to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) applicants for this program will need to be prompt when submitting their applications as the cap for 6500 may be reached before the end of the programme year.
The Investor Programme (IP)
Investors are eligible to apply for this program if:
- They are able to invest $800,000 CAD for 5 years;
- Demonstrate a net worth of at least 1.6 million Canadian dollar; and
- Managerial experience.
This investment will provide them with a Quebec Selection Certificate which will be transferred to permanent residency for the investor and their family.
They may also choose to contribute a one-time payment of $220,000 with a financing option. The application time frame for this program will run from September 8, 2014- September 19, 2014. During this time only 1750 applications will be accepted.
The Entrepreneur Programme (EP)
Has been opened for applications, the Government of Quebec has said to accept a maximum of 500 applications from entrepreneurs and self-employed persons, there has been no mention of a time frame.
Although in Canada, the province of Quebec does apply its own immigration rules, which are not the same as in Ontario and other provinces.