FAQ - Quebec Experience Program (QEP)
Top 46 essential questions about the QEP to obtain permanent residency in Quebec in 2025.
Find clear answers and practical advice on the PEQ and permanent residency in Quebec in 2025. Learn more about eligibility criteria, processing times, and the documents required to successfully apply this year.
Whether you're an international graduate student or a skilled temporary worker, Aïa, your virtual assistant, guides you every step of the way to explore your immigration options and obtain your Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ) in 2025.

Understanding the fundamentals of QEP in 2025
The Québec Experience Program (QEP) is a privileged immigration channel set up by Québec to facilitate access to permanent residency for people with life experience in the province. In 2025, it continues to represent an attractive option for international students graduating from a Quebec institution and skilled temporary foreign workers, both of whom demonstrate an ability to integrate and actively contribute to Quebec society.
To assess your chances of obtaining permanent residency through the QEP, start your free PR assessment with Aïa.
The Québec Experience Program (QEP) was set up to attract and retain skilled workers and international students who contribute to the province's economic and social development. It offers a faster route to permanent residency. With nearly 1.6 million job vacancies to be filled by 2031, the QEP is essential to meeting the needs of the Quebec job market.
To confirm whether this program is right for you, check your eligibility for PR in Quebec with Aïa.
While the Quebec Experience Program (QEP) has long been seen as a fast track to permanent residency in Quebec, recent changes and suspensions have created challenges. In 2025, the QEP remains an option, but it's no longer as predictable, fast or straightforward as it once was, due to recent changes. So it's essential to understand the new procedure, and to prepare strategically. If you're looking for a fast track to PR in Quebec, other programs may be better suited to your profile.
To find out if your profile is suitable, start your free PR assessment with Aïa.
The Québec Experience Program (QEP) offers two main streams, each targeting specific profiles.
- The"Graduate" stream is aimed at international students who have obtained an eligible diploma in Quebec, such as a DEC, Bac, master's or doctorate. Criteria are based on educational background and ability to communicate in French.
- The"Worker" component, on the other hand, is aimed at temporary foreign workers with qualified work experience in the province, who also have the ability to express themselves in French. Both streams lead to permanent residency, but requirements and procedures may differ.
To confirm whether this program is right for you, check your eligibility for PR in Quebec with Aïa.
Recent changes to immigration rules have a significant impact on the Quebec Experience Program (QEP) in 2025. Here are the key dates to remember:
- October 31, 2024: Announcement of the Quebec Immigration Plan for 2025, including temporary measures to control the growth of permanent immigration.
- October 31, 2024 to June 30, 2025: Temporary suspension of two permanent immigration programs, namely the "Quebec Graduates" component of the QEP and the Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP).
- November 29, 2024: Transformation of the
Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP) into the Skilled Worker Selection Program (SWSP).
These measures are designed to curb the increase in the number of permanent immigrants and give priority to French-speaking candidates, in response to the Quebec government's linguistic and economic objectives.
To assess how these changes affect your eligibility for permanent residency in Quebec, we recommend you use our free assessment with Aïa.
No, the Quebec Experience Program (QEP) is not the only way to obtain permanent residency (PR) in Quebec. Several other programs are available, each tailored to specific profiles.
1. Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP): Intended for workers with skills and work experience that meet the needs of the Quebec job market. This program was replaced by the Skilled Worker Selection Program (RSWP) on November 29, 2024.
2. Pilot programs: Quebec offers pilot programs targeting specific sectors, such as
- Food processing workers
- Beneficiary attendants
- Artificial intelligence, information technology and visual effects
These programs are designed to attract professionals to fields in demand.
3. Express Entry: Although primarily aimed at other Canadian provinces, this federal system includes programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class and the Skilled Trades Program. However, Quebec selects its own economic immigrants, and candidates wishing to settle in Quebec must generally go through the provincial programs.
Which program is right for you depends on your profile, work experience, language skills and long-term goals. To determine the most appropriate path, we recommend evaluating your options using specialized tools.
To compare all your options, check your eligibility for PR in Quebec with Aïa.
The Arrima program is Quebec's online immigration application management system, used in particular for the skilled worker immigration component. Arrima lets you create your profile, submit your expression of interest and receive invitations from the Quebec government to apply for a Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ).
The QEP, for its part, is one of the immigration programs that can be managed via Arrima. The main link is that, if you choose the QEP component to apply, your profile will be managed through Arrima. So it's important to understand how it works, and to fill in the information correctly to maximize your chances of invitation and success.
To find out whether Arrima or another mechanism is right for you, take your free PR assessment in Quebec with Aïa.
Québec experience refers to life, work or study experience acquired in Québec, which is valued under the Programme de l'expérience québécoise (QEP). For the worker stream, experience must have been acquired with a valid work permit and in a qualified job.
In the case of the graduate component, this means completion of studies at an institution accredited by the Quebec government. It's important to understand that the Quebec experience is a combination of factors, which is considered essential for integration into Quebec society.
To see if your background meets the requirements, evaluate your options for PR in Quebec with Aïa.
Eligibility and profile of QEP candidates
The Québec Experience Program (QEP) in 2025 is aimed at two main categories of applicants.
International students who have graduated in Quebec:
- Eligible diplomas: DEC (Diplôme d'études collégiales), bachelor's degree, master's degree, doctorate or DEP (Diplôme d'études professionnelles) of at least 1,800 hours.
- Good command of French (level 7 oral and 5 written).
- No work experience required to apply after graduation. (Note: Stream suspended from October 31, 2024 to June 30, 2025).
Qualified temporary foreign workers:
- Full-time work experience in Quebec in a skilled position (NOC 0, A or B).
- Good command of French, confirmed by an official test.
- Long-term plans to settle in Quebec.
Adapt your approach now by checking your eligibility for PR in Quebec with Aïa thanks to our free assessment.
The Quebec Experience Program (QEP) imposes specific language requirements to prove your ability to integrate into Quebec.
Levels required in 2025:
- Oral expression: Level 7 on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) scale.
- Written expression: Level 5 on the same scale (applicable only for certain components).
Recognized French language tests:
- TEF Canada (Test d'évaluation de français).
- TCF Canada (Test de connaissance du français).
- Other diplomas or attestations recognized by the Quebec government.
Important points:
- Test results are valid for 2 years.
- Language requirements may change. It is therefore crucial to check for updates before submitting your application.
Prepare your tests with Aïa and check your eligibility for PR in Quebec using our free assessment.
No, for the Quebec Experience Program (QEP), only work experience acquired in Quebec is recognized. However, if you are a skilled worker with work experience outside Quebec, we recommend that you consult other immigration programs that may be better suited to your profile, particularly through the Express Entry system.
Discover your immigration options with Aïa thanks to our free evaluation.
The QEP values Quebec diplomas, such as a Bachelor's, Master's or Doctorate degree, as well as college diplomas (DEC). For candidates who have obtained a diploma abroad, certain equivalences are possible. The equivalency process varies according to the nature of your studies and your country of origin, but it's essential to understand that your documents will be reviewed by the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI). It's important to take the time to do what's necessary to maximize your chances of success.
Check your eligibility for PR in Quebec with Aïa and discover the options available with our free evaluation.
Attestation of College Studies (ACS) may be eligible for the QEP, but only under certain conditions. Check with the Ministère d'Immigration du Québec to verify the program's eligibility. Make sure your ACS meets the program's requirements. ACSs are not generally considered to be university-level degrees, and their eligibility varies with each new MIFI policy or program.
Evaluate your options for PR in Quebec with Aïa thanks to our free evaluation tool.
The Diploma of College Studies (DCS) is a college-level diploma that generally lasts two or three years and gives access to university programs or the job market. The Attestation of Collegial Studies (ACS) is a shorter training program aimed at the job market. When it comes to immigration, recognition of DCSs and ACSs can vary from program to program, so it's important to check their respective eligibility for the QEP.
Check whether your diploma is eligible with Aïa by using our free evaluation.
If your degree doesn't qualify for the QEP, you can explore other immigration options, including Quebec pilot programs or federal programs. You could also consider upgrading in a program that does qualify. Your background may also point you in the direction of the QEP worker stream, if you have the necessary work experience.
Explore your options for PR in Quebec with Aïa using our free interactive assessment tool.
Yes, for the worker component of the QEP, your job must correspond to a skilled occupation (NOC 0, A or B). What's more, your job must be full-time, and it's increasingly recommended that you focus on high-demand employment sectors in the regions of Quebec to optimize your chances of obtaining permanent residency. Pilot programs are worth considering.
Check your eligibility and explore your options for PR in Quebec with Aïa by using our free assessment.
No, you don't have to be perfectly bilingual in English to obtain permanent residency in Quebec through the QEP. However, you do need to demonstrate intermediate-to-advanced proficiency in French for most programs, as demonstrated by an official language test. Although English is not mandatory, it can be an asset for your integration and professional insertion, if you wish to settle in the greater Montreal area.
Check your level of French and assess your eligibility for PR in Quebec with Aïa thanks to our free assessment.
Intending to settle in Quebec means that you plan to live and work permanently in the province after you become a permanent resident, and that your long-term life project is in Quebec. This demonstrates your commitment to the Quebec economy, society and culture. Your declaration of intent must be sincere, and can be verified by immigration authorities.
Get advice on how to strengthen your case with Aïa and start your free assessment for PR in Quebec.
Application stages and documents required for QEP
To prepare a solid file for the QEP in 2025, you need to follow a rigorous approach. Start with a personalized assessment of your profile with Aïa, your virtual immigration assistant.
Next:
- Gather the required documents accurately.
- Fill in the forms clearly and without error.
- Prepare for potential interviews.
- Check translations, if necessary.
The IMM 0008 form, used to apply for permanent residency, must be completed with extreme care. It is essential to provide accurate and complete information, matching the data in your supporting documents. Pay particular attention to dates, names, identification numbers and other important details. Validation before submission is essential to avoid any errors or omissions that could delay the processing of your application.
Consult our complete guide to completing the IMM 0008 form and use Aïa, your virtual assistant for PR in Quebec, for rapid validation.
Essential documents include:
- Valid passport.
- French test results (TEF or TCF).
- Quebec diploma or comparative evaluation of studies.
- Proof of employment in Quebec (contracts, pay stubs).
- Proof of funds (bank statements, financial guarantees).
Use Aïa to organize and verify your documents, and get your free Quebec PR evaluation with Aïa.
To prove your work experience in Quebec, you'll need letters of employment from each of your employers, including start and end dates, your role and main duties. Pay stubs may also be required. If you've had several jobs, make sure you provide all the documents for each experience, to provide the best possible justification of the length of your experience in Quebec.
Check your proof of employment with Aïa and optimize your letters of reference with our free PR assessment for Quebec.
If your documents are in a language other than French or English, you'll need to obtain a certified translation from a translator registered with OTTIAQ (Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec). Make sure your translators are certified. The translation must include the translator's official seal and a declaration of authenticity. A professional translator can save you a lot of trouble.
Take your free PR assessment in Quebec with Aïa to check your language requirements.
French test results (TEF Canada or TCF Canada) must be sent directly to IRCC via the testing organization. A copy of the original results must also be included in your file.
Please note: results are only valid for two years. Check their expiry date before submitting your application, and keep a copy of the originals for future reference.
Prepare your test with Aïa and explore our free resources while taking a free PR assessment in Quebec.
Deadlines, costs and procedures
Processing times for the Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ) under the QEP vary according to a number of factors, including the stream you are applying to, the number of applications in process, and the completeness of your file. In general, turnaround times vary from a few weeks to several months.
The Quebec government specifies that the process can take approximately 20 working days to review your file once it is complete.
Evaluate your options for PR in Quebec with Aïa and prepare your application with confidence thanks to our free evaluation.
Yes, there is a fee for a permanent selection application under the Québec Experience Program (QEP). As of January 1ᵉʳ, 2025, the processing fees for the Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ) are as follows:
- Principal applicant: $921 CAD
- Spouse or de facto spouse: $197 CA
- Each dependent child: $197 CAD
These fees must be paid in full, in Canadian dollars, usually by credit card, via the official portal of the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI). It is essential to use official channels for payment to avoid any fraud or complications.
Please note that these fees are non-refundable, even if your application is refused or rejected. It is therefore crucial to ensure that your file is complete and compliant before submitting your application.
For a personalized assessment of your Quebec immigration options, you can use Aïa, our interactive tool designed to guide you through the process of becoming a permanent resident.
No, the Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ) is a document proving that your profile has been accepted by the province of Quebec, as part of the QEP. It is not a travel document. It allows you to proceed to the federal permanent residence application stage. The CSQ will be requested upon arrival in Quebec to establish your status as a permanent resident.
Plan your steps with Aïa and prepare for permanent residency with our free Quebec PR assessment.
Once your Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ) application has been submitted, you can track its progress via the Arrima portal, using your login and password to access the tracking system. The portal will provide you with information on the steps completed and the next actions to be taken, if any. It's important to check your e-mail and online account regularly, as MIFI communicates mainly via this channel.
Simplify your follow-up with Aïa and start with a free evaluation for PR in Quebec to structure your request.
A refusal of your file under the QEP program can be disappointing, but recourse options and solutions are available. You have the right to request a review of your file if you feel an error has been made. It is essential to analyze the reasons for the refusal and see if you can correct certain points, then submit a new application. The first thing to do is to fully understand the reasons for the refusal and make sure you can meet all the requirements. The support of an immigration professional can save you time and energy.
Explore your recourse with Aïa thanks to our free assessment for PR in Quebec, or consult an expert for a personalized reassessment.
Yes, it is possible to work in Quebec on a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) while your QEP application is being processed. The PGWP is an open work permit, which means you can work for any employer in Canada while awaiting a response from Quebec immigration authorities. Time spent with a PGWP counts as Canadian work experience and can be an asset when applying for a PR. However, it is essential to maintain the validity of your status, and to always comply with the conditions of the PGWP.
Maximize your opportunities with Aïa and prepare your application with our free assessment for PR in Quebec.
Implications of changes and status
Recent changes to the Quebec Experience Program (QEP) in 2025, including the suspension of the graduate component from October 31, 2024 to June 30, 2025, and the strengthening of language requirements, may affect your status in Quebec.
For international students:
- Suspension of the graduate stream: You cannot submit a new application for permanent selection via this stream during the period indicated.
- Increased language requirements: Increased proficiency in French is now required, with a level 7 in oral expression and a level 5 in writing.
For temporary workers:
- Language requirements: The level of French required has been raised, necessitating a better command of the language.
- Suspension of invitations: Invitations to apply under the Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP) and the Skilled Worker Selection Program (SWSP) are suspended until June 30, 2025.
Stay informed with Aïa and adapt your immigration strategy with our free PR assessment for Quebec.
If you are no longer eligible for the QEP due to changes in criteria or the temporary suspension of certain components, it's important to consider alternative options. Explore Quebec's other immigration programs.
- Quebec pilot programs for in-demand sectors.
- Federal programs such as Express Entry and PNP.
- New programs for skilled workers and students.
Each of these programs has its own eligibility criteria, and a personalized assessment is recommended to identify the best option for you.
If your work or study permit expires while your QEP application is in progress, it's crucial to understand the conditions associated with "implied status" in Canada. If you applied before your permit expired, you are allowed to remain in the country as a temporary resident until a decision is made, but it is imperative that you comply with all the requirements of your program or permit. Be vigilant, and don't hesitate to ask an expert for help.
Secure your status with Aïa and prepare your application with our free assessment for PR in Quebec.
Implied status (also known as "maintained status") is a temporary status that may apply when you have submitted an application to renew your permit before your current status expires. As a temporary resident, you can stay in Canada and potentially work or study (depending on the conditions of your application), until a decision is made on your application.
However, implied status does not meet the eligibility criteria for certain immigration programs, such as the QEP. It is therefore crucial to take the necessary steps to obtain a valid status and a clear answer from the immigration authorities.
Get personalized advice from Aïa and start your free PR assessment in Quebec to avoid complications related to your status.
Aïa's services for immigration to Quebec
Aïa, the virtual immigration assistant, simplifies every step of your QEP application. Thanks to its artificial intelligence, Aïa:
- Analyzes your profile to assess your eligibility.
- Provides personalized recommendations and identifies the best immigration paths.
- Guides you in collecting required documents and filling out forms.
- Checks for potential errors to avoid delays or refusals.
Aïa keeps up to date with the latest regulations and provides real-time answers to optimize your process. Try our free assessment tool and prepare your application with confidence.
Aïa offers two main services to facilitate your immigration process.
Personalized immigration strategy
- Complete analysis of your profile.
- Proposal of two immigration options adapted to your objectives and qualifications.
- Detailed plan with clear steps, precise deadlines and expert advice.
Application review and preparation
- Thorough check of your forms and documents.
- Optimization of applications to maximize your chances of success.
- Guidance calls to clarify your steps and answer your questions.
Discover our services and start your journey today with a free consultation.
When you choose Aïa, you benefit from a platform that combines expertise and artificial intelligence:
- Simplify your administrative process and avoid costly errors.
- Get personalized advice tailored to your specific needs.
- Track your progress and receive real-time updates.
- Benefit from multilingual support (French, English, Spanish, Ukrainian and Russian).
Aïa accompanies you from the initial assessment to the submission of your application, guaranteeing a fast, transparent and efficient approach.
Our assessment tool uses artificial intelligence to:
- Identify your immigration options.
- Highlight strengths and areas for improvement.
- Generate a personalized report with specific recommendations.
Get a free assessment now to start your immigration process.
Data and statistics on QEP in 2025
The number of Certificats de sélection du Québec (CSQ) issued through the Québec Experience Program (QEP) has varied in recent years:
- 2021: Approximately 24,000 CSQs
- 2022: Approximately 6,000 CSQs (-75%)
Distribution in 2022:
- Graduates: Approx. 2,000 CSQ (33.3%)
- Temporary workers: Approx. 4,000 CSQ (66.7%)
Factors explaining this decline:
- Changes in QEP eligibility criteria.
- Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on immigration.
- Adjustments to Quebec immigration policies.
Quebec's Immigration Plan for 2025 forecasts between 48,500 and 51,500 immigrants in total. However, specific figures for the QEP are not yet available. The temporary suspension of the "Quebec Graduates" component (October 31, 2024 - June 30, 2025) could further modify these trends.
Explore your options for PR in Quebec with Aïa and prepare your application with our free assessment.
The processing time for Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ) applications has changed:
- Before July 2020: 20 working days
- Since May 2020: 6 months maximum
Points to remember:
- The 6-month deadline begins upon receipt of a complete application.
- This timeframe is a target, not a guarantee. Some files may take longer.
- Comparison: The Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP) often takes 12 to 24 months.
- Impact of COVID-19: Delays in 2020 and 2021, but back to normal since then.
Track your file online and respond quickly to MIFI requests for additional information to avoid delays.
Check your eligibility with Aïa and start your free evaluation for PR in Quebec to optimize your lead times.
Breakdown 2022:
- Quebec graduates: 2,000 CSQ (33.3%)
- Temporary workers: 4,000 CSQ (66.7%)
- Total: 6,000 CSQ
Distribution 2021:
- Quebec graduates: 8,000 CSQ
- Temporary workers: 16,000 CSQ
- Total: 24,000 CSQ
Key points:
- 75% drop between 2021 and 2022.
- Relatively stable proportions: 1/3 graduates, 2/3 temporary workers.
- Impact of the suspension of the "Graduates" component (October 31, 2024 - June 30, 2025) on future trends.
Since 2016, the share of graduates has decreased, while that of temporary workers has remained more stable.
Explore your options with Aïa thanks to our free assessment for PR in Quebec and identify the path that matches your profile.
Although specific data for the QEP is not available, here are some general statistics on immigrant employment in Quebec in 2023:
- Immigrant women (aged 15 and over): 60%.
- Immigrant men (aged 15 and over): 70%.
Factors influencing employment:
- Quebec experience and local diplomas favor integration.
- Recognition of foreign diplomas and level of French.
- Sectors in demand, notably IT, health and engineering.
Employment rates improve over time: after 5 years, they are close to those of native Quebecers (around 62.5%).
Optimize your career with Aïa and explore your options with our free assessment for PR in Quebec.
Although there are no official figures, the acceptance rate is estimated at between 80% and 90% for QEP.
Key factors:
- Well-defined eligibility criteria.
- Compliance with language requirements.
- Validation of diplomas and professional experience.
The QEP has higher acceptance rates than the Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP).
The temporary suspension of the "Graduates" component (2024-2025) could affect future figures.
Evaluate your chances of success with Aïa by using our free assessment for PR in Quebec.
- Temporary suspension: Graduate stream suspended from October 31, 2024 to June 30, 2025.
- Enhanced language requirements: Level 7 oral and level 5 written.
- Elimination of work experience requirements: Application to be made as soon as a diploma is obtained.
- Eligible diplomas expanded: Inclusion of DVS of 1800 hours or more.
A good tip is to follow the updates to stay in line with the new requirements.
Prepare your file with Aïa and check your eligibility with our free evaluation for PR in Quebec.
Impact of new laws and regulations
The new federal and provincial immigration rules for 2024-2025 may have a major impact on your QEP project. There are changes to language requirements, the suspension of certain components, and the targeting of profiles that are more in line with labor market needs.
It's essential to stay informed via the official websites of the Canadian and Quebec governments, and to make a precise assessment of your profile to see how these changes could affect you and adapt your project.
Adapt your Quebec immigration strategy with Aïa and anticipate requirements to maximize your chances of success.