Quebec Reopens Immigration Pilot Programs for Workers in Key Sectors

Quebec has announced the reopening of its three immigration pilot programs starting January 13, 2025. These programs aim to address labor shortages in specific industries while offering successful applicants the chance to secure Canadian permanent residence (PR).

Originally introduced in 2021, these pilot programs focus on attracting skilled workers to Quebec in critical sectors.

The Three Immigration Pilot Programs

1. Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Food Processing Workers (PP TA)
2. Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Beneficiary Attendants (PP PAB)
3. Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Workers in Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, and Visual Effects (PP IA/TI-EV)

Application Caps and Guidelines

• PP TA and PP PAB: Each program will accept up to 600 applications between January 13 and December 31, 2025.
• PP IA/TI-EV: A total of 600 applications will be split equally between its two components:
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): 300 applications
• Information Technology and Visual Effects (TI-EV): 300 applications
• Of these, 150 applications in each component will be reserved for the Francisation profile.

All three programs are set to expire on January 1, 2026.

Key Eligibility Criteria

PP TA (Food Processing Workers)

• Age: 18+
• Intention to Settle: Plan to live and work in Quebec in an eligible sector.
• Education: A high school or professional studies diploma from Quebec.
• Work Experience: 24 months of full-time work in an eligible Quebec sector within the last 36 months.
• Language: Spoken French proficiency at level 7 (Quebec Scale).
• Job Roles: Eligible occupations include NOC codes such as 94141, 95106, 65311, and more.
• Sectors: Food and Beverage Manufacturing.

PP PAB (Beneficiary Attendants)

This program has two components:

1. Work Component
• Requires 24 months of work experience as a beneficiary attendant or related roles.
2. Work-Study Component
• Requires 12 months of work experience post-completion of a Quebec vocational diploma.

Common criteria include age (18+), intention to settle in Quebec, and French proficiency (level 7).

PP IA/TI-EV (Artificial Intelligence, IT, and Visual Effects)

This program has two components:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Foreign workers must have a relevant degree (minimum bachelor’s) and 24 months of work experience or a recent master’s/Ph.D. from Quebec.
• Job offers must meet specific salary thresholds.
2. Information Technology and Visual Effects (ITVE)
• Applicants need a technical diploma or bachelor’s degree and 24 months of eligible work experience.

Francisation Profile: Applicants under both components must demonstrate French proficiency and provide supporting documents like transcripts or test results.

Conclusion

Quebec’s immigration pilot programs provide unique opportunities for skilled workers to settle in the province while addressing critical labor gaps. With a strong focus on French language skills and sector-specific expertise, these programs are an excellent pathway for those looking to build their future in Quebec.