A Step-by-Step Guide to Your Certificate of Acceptance of Quebec (CAQ)

Quebec is famously known as the 'Land of French.' As you contemplate the prospect of pursuing your dreams in this vibrant Canadian region, it's crucial to navigate the essential steps, and our blog is here to guide you through the intricate process of obtaining your CAQ, the full form: Certificate of Acceptance of Quebec.

Quebec City stands out as the most affordable among major Canadian cities. With insights into costs, including an approximate INR 99,000. Uncover the intricacies of the CAQ step-by-step guide.

What is a CAQ Application?

The Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ) stands as an obligatory immigration document for international students enrolling at McGill*. Issued by Immigration Quebec, this authorization is necessary for studying in Quebec and serves as a prerequisite for your study permit application.

*McGill University located in Quebec is ranked 30th globally in the 2024 QS World University Rankings.

• Initiate your CAQ application promptly upon receiving admission to McGill
• Regularly check your CAQ online portal for updates to your file after submission
• The standard CAQ processing time is typically 25 business days from the day Immigration Quebec acknowledges the receipt of your supporting documents on the online portal
• Be aware that processing times may vary.
• If more than 8 weeks have passed, consider reaching out to Immigration Quebec for a follow-up
• Avoid resubmitting supporting documents or initiating a new application

Important Note: Certain foreign nationals may be exempted from requiring a CAQ Quebec, such as those admitted to programs lasting less than 6 months.

Explore: Why does Quebec have Immigration Policies of Their Own?

Immigration Quebec CAQ Application Process

To get a Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ) for your studies, you have to apply online on the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) website.

Once you apply and pay the fee, you'll get a CAQ personalized document checklist. This checklist will guide you on how to send your supporting documents to MIFI using the Arrima online system. It's a straightforward process to make sure you're all set for your studies in Québec.

Step 1: Complete the Online Application for Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ)

When applying for your Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ), follow these easy steps:

A. Online Application and Fee Payment

• Complete your application online and pay the processing fee using your credit card

B. Access Your Admission Letter

• Retrieve your admission letter through the online application system. Remember, McGill doesn't send admissions decisions by mail.
• Save or print a copy of your letter, as it's the only version you'll get electronically.

C. Conditions on Your Admission Letter

• Your admission letter might have conditions related to class registration
• No need to wait to meet these conditions before applying for your immigration documents

D. Accompanying Persons:

• Immediate family members include de facto (common-law) spouse, child, spouse (married), mother and father with temporary residence in Canada (visitors, students, workers), refugees, persons without status, foreign diplomats and consular, permanent residents, or Canadian citizens.

E. Start and End Dates

• Indicate approximate dates for the duration of your entire degree or program of studies.
• For annual tuition fees, check the McGill Fee Calculator for Undergraduate and Graduate studies.

F. Financial Capacity Proof

• Depending on your current country of residence, you might need to provide proof of financial capacity.
• Specify who will pay for your living expenses and tuition. If you're a graduate student with a stipend, award, or grant, choose "Myself" as the responsible party.

Also Read: Quebec Skilled Worker Program: Eligibility, Process, Arrima Draws

Step 2: Obtain Your Personalized Document Checklist

After finishing your online application and paying the processing fee, you'll get a personalized checklist. This checklist will tell you what supporting documents you need to send to Immigration Quebec. It also guides you on submitting these documents online through the Arrima system.

Usually, the supporting documents are these, however, it varies depending on your application

• A photocopy of the identity pages of your passport;
• A letter of admission from your educational institution in Québec
• Your proof of financial capacity

Step 3: Understanding Your Document Checklist and Following Next Steps

Once you receive the document list, here are some of the crucial information that you must follow for a smooth application process.

A. Declaration, Commitments, and Authorizations Form

• You'll get a form detailing your obligations as a student in Quebec
• Print, sign, and date the form by hand before uploading it as a PDF. Electronic signatures won't work

B. Save Copies

• Save copies of all checklist documents for your records
• You'll also use some of these for your study permit application

C. Financial Capacity Proof

• If your checklist needs proof of financial capacity, confirm you/your financial guardians can cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for the first year
• If a third party supports you, they need to complete and sign the Declaration of Financial Support letter. Print, sign, and date it by hand before uploading it as a PDF. No electronic signatures

D. Annual Financial Capacity

• The amount to demonstrate depends on family accompaniment
• For one person 18 or older, Immigration Quebec requires a minimum of $14,349 per year or around $1,200 per month

E. For Minors (Under 17)

• Additional documents are needed. If the custodian is the Associate Dean of Students, follow website instructions

F. Scanned Copies and Translations:

• Include scanned copies of the original documents listed on your checklist
• Any document not in English or French needs a certified translation

Step 4: Submit Documents Electronically via the Arrima Online System

• Log into the Arrima online system and create an account. The students can use the web form to get answers to any technical queries.
• Once your Arrima account is set up, click "Joindre des documents" to initiate the document upload process.
• Choose the document type from the drop-down menu and receive a confirmation pop-up after uploading.
• Click "Déposer" to submit documents to Immigration Quebec, and remember, this step is crucial for completing the application process.
• Don't forget that any additional documents can be combined into one PDF and uploaded in the "Autres types de documents" section. Ensure a smooth submission by hitting "Déposer" to avoid leaving your application pending.

Step 5: Receive Your CAQ Confirmation Letter

Immigration Quebec will send you a confirmation letter after a few days (25 Days approx) after uploading the documents. Here are the steps that you should follow upon receiving the letter

• CAQ Confirmation Letter
  • Immigration Quebec will send you a Letter of attestation of issuance of your CAQ for studies directly to your online file
  • This official document confirms your CAQ issuance; there's no hard copy sent by mail
• Study Permit Application
  • Include this confirmation letter when submitting your study permit application to Immigration Canada
• For U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents
  • If applying at the Port of Entry (POE), print out your CAQ Confirmation Letter
  • Bring it with you when traveling to Canada

Mastering the Quebec CAQ: Your Journey Simplified with GetGIS

As we conclude this insightful journey through the Quebec CAQ application process, it's evident that the step-by-step guidance we've provided is designed for simplicity and clarity, using layman's terms to demystify the process.

However, we understand that the entire undertaking can still feel overwhelming. That's why we strongly recommend seeking expert help for the Quebec CAQ application process. Embrace the ease and assurance that comes with GetGIS—a trusted ally to navigate the complexities and ensure a smooth path toward your academic aspirations in Quebec. Schedule a Free Consultation