The Quebec Experience Program is a fast-track immigration route for foreign nationals who have studied and earned a degree/diploma in Quebec or have work experience in Quebec.
Those who are successful in applying through the PEQ receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CEQ) – a necessary document in order to apply for permanent residency in Quebec.
However, individuals who are unable to meet the eligibility requirements to apply through the PEQ despite having studied or worked in Quebec can still apply though the Quebec Skilled Worker Program to receive their CSQ.
Apply as an International Student:
To apply as an international student, they must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- You must intend to settle in Quebec to hold a job
- Have stayed in Quebec temporarily for the purpose of studying
- Have stayed in Quebec for at least half the duration of your studies
- Hold an eligible Quebec diploma under the PEQ, which include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree
- Doctorate
- Diploma of college studies, technical training (DEC)
- Diploma of vocational studies verifying at least 1,800 hours of study (DEP)
The diploma or degree must have been obtained during the 36 months before submitting an application.
In addition, the student must possess intermediate advanced knowledge of oral French which can be proven by one of the following:
- A final transcript attesting you have successfully completed a study program in Quebec entirely in French (including the master’s and doctoral theses, if applicable)
- A final transcript attesting you have successfully completed at least three years of full-time secondary or post-secondary studies entirely in French (including the master’s and doctoral theses, if applicable)
- A final transcript attesting you have successfully completed an advanced intermediate level French course in Quebec at a recognized educational institute
- An attestation that you have passed a French test, such as the TEF (test d’évaluation du français)
- Satisfied the French language requirements of the professional order in Quebec governing their occupation
Quebec graduates can apply to the PEQ from Quebec or abroad, but no later than 36 months after receiving their diploma or degree.
Apply as a Temporary Foreign Worker:
To apply as an Temporary Foreign Worker, they must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- You must intend to settle in Quebec to hold a job
- Have stayed in Quebec temporarily for the purpose of working there
- Have been employed full-time for a period of 12 months in the 24 months preceding the submission of your application and still hold the same job at the time of application
- Be living legally in Quebec as a temporary foreign worker or as part of a youth exchange program, such as Young Professionals or International Co-op Internship permit
Work Experience:
Eligible full-time jobs constitute a minimum of 30 hours of paid work week. Work experience gained as a self-employed individual, entrepreneur, or part-time worker is not eligible for the PEQ. However, full-time work acquired under a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), a youth exchange program, or internships not related to your study program may be considered if you meet all other requirements under the PEQ.
Language Requirements:
- An attestation that you have passed a French test, such as the TEF (test d’évaluation du français)
- A final transcript attesting you have successfully completed an advanced intermediate level French course in Quebec at a recognized educational institute
- A final transcript attesting you have successfully completed at least three years of full-time secondary or post-secondary studies entirely in French (including the master’s and doctoral theses, if applicable)
- Satisfied the French language requirements of the professional order in Quebec governing their occupation
Processing Time:
A complete application will be processed within 20 business days, excluding postal delays, for complete applications that do not require an audit interview. All incomplete files will be returned to the sender.