Canada Immigration: New deadline, guidelines for Quebec

The Canadian province of Quebec is gearing up for the next intake cycle of its Skilled Worker programme, where 2,800 applications will be accepted.

However, just before the applications may be submitted the rules of the games changed, leaving many potential candidates confused about the rights steps to take.

These are some tips if Quebec is the immigration destination you are looking for.

The Skilled Worker Programme (QSWP) is a programme similar to its federal equivalent but considered to be more lenient in terms of criteria, especially with the recent changes to the programme.

The stream enables the regular immigrant to move to Canada to live and work there, provided the person settles in the province of Quebec.

A last intake round of this year will see 2,800 applications accepted through the online system called the Mon projet Québec online application management system.

The last date to open an account on this system was January 25. Without an account it is not possible to participate in the upcoming application cycle.

The dates

The opening of the application cycle is now scheduled on February 16.

Previously, the programme was set to open on January 18. However, this date was recalled.

A new deadline was given for the creation of an account on the Mon projet Quebec system. The deadline was set at January 25, 8.30am Eastern Standard Time.

Anybody who failed to create an account before this date will have to wait for the next intake period. It will be possible to create an account as of February 18, 2016 for the next intake round.

Those who have succeeded in setting up their account will be able to complete their application between January 26 and February 15, 2016. From this point, potential candidates have three weeks to add all that is required to submit a complete form on time.

The submission of the application and payment of the registration can be done from February 16. The application intake period will end on March 31, 2016 at the latest.

It is important to note that the intake cap is often reached within days and the programme is closed before its official deadline.

How it works

The programme uses a point-based system, where a minimum threshold applies in order to obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ).

A single applicant must score at least 49 points, while an applicant with a spouse or common-law partner must score at least 57 points.

Considerable emphasis is placed on language. An applicant can receive a maximum of 22 points for language. Up to 16 points can be awarded for French proficiency, and up to 6 for English.

However, French language proficiency is not a requirement.

Area of training can be allocated 6-16 points. Specifying which occupations are in demand, the Canadian province requires candidates to have qualifications in one of the training fields on the list.

Previously, recent work experience in the field of education had to be demonstrated of this education was completed more than 5 years ago. This is no longer the case; applicants will receive points for their diplomas regardless of when they were earned.

Individuals who have degrees in areas such as computer science, computer engineering, accounting, translation, and banking and financial operations are in demand.

(Image via Shutterstock)

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