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IMPACT – MEDIUM
What is the change? Quebec has released details about its new Expression of Interest program that will replace its first-come, first-served system and prioritize employment-based applicants who have skills that are in high demand in the province.
What does the change mean? The Expression of Interest program will operate on a three-step process in which applicants must meet threshold scores according to Quebec’s points grid. Candidates will be selected by periodic draws similar to the federal Express Entry system, and invitations to apply will be issued to candidates with the highest scores as well as consideration of other factors. Those who receive an invitation to apply will apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate and, if successful, may then apply for Canadian permanent residency.
Background: The three-step process is as follows. The first threshold for minimum eligibility is 2 points for secondary school general diploma and 1 point for financial self-sufficiency. The second threshold requires a minimum score of 43 points for “employability” factors. The third threshold of 50 points (59 points if applying with a spouse/partner) is based on additional “selection” criteria.
Candidates in the profile bank will be scored on the basis of nine factors on the Quebec Skilled Worker Program points grid, including work experience, education and training, language skills in English or French, financial self-sufficiency, among others.
A complete breakdown of the points in each category can be viewed here.
BAL Analysis: Quebec’s Expression of Interest program will offer benefits to foreign skilled workers while prioritizing regional labor needs and significantly reduce processing times from the current three years to less than one year.
This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.
Copyright © 2018 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.
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