Quebec Selection Certificate: A Guide for Immigration to Quebec
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Table of Contents
- Who is Eligible for CSQ?
- Documents Required to Apply for CSQ
- How to Apply for the Quebec Selection Certificate?
- What is the Processing Time for Quebec Selection?
- What Comes After Obtaining Quebec Selection
- How to I Apply for PR after Quebec Selection
- How Do I get a Quebec Acceptance Certificate
- Quebec’s Immigration Programs in 2025
- What is the Difference Between CAQ & CSQ in Quebec
- Time To Secure Your CSQ! Seek GetGIS Assistance
The Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ), or Quebec Selection Certificate, is a document issued by the Quebec government to individuals who wish to immigrate to the province.
This article will provide a comprehensive guide on what the CSQ is, the eligibility criteria, the application process, the processing time, and more. So, read on and get well-versed with the Quebec Selection Certificate.
Who is Eligible for CSQ?
To be eligible for the CSQ, applicants must meet the CSQ eligibility criteria set by the Quebec government. These include:
- Educational Background: Applicants should have a diploma that matches the education requirements in Quebec.
- Work Experience: Relevant work experience in a field that is in demand in Quebec.
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in French is highly beneficial as it is the official language of Quebec.
- Age: Younger applicants typically score higher in the selection process.
- Financial Self-Sufficiency: Proof of the ability to support oneself and dependents upon arrival in Quebec.
- Spouse/Common-law Partner Characteristics: Points can be earned based on the spouse or partner’s educational background, work experience, and language proficiency.
Also Read: 15 Benefits of Learning French Language in Canada
Documents Required to Apply for CSQ
When applying for a Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ), you must submit various documents to support your application. The exact requirements may vary depending on the specific immigration program you're applying under, but generally, the following documents are required:
1.Personal Identification Documents
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- Valid Passport
- Birth Certificate
- Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
- Divorce or Separation Certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of Status in Current Country of Residence
- Residency Permit
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2. Education Documents
- Academic Transcripts
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
3.Work Experience Documents
4.Language Proficiency Test Score Cards
5.Proof of Funds
6.Family Information
- Spouse/Partner Documents (if any)
- Children’s Documents (if any)
- Quebec Connection Documents (if any)
7.Fee Payment Receipt
8.Other Supporting Documents
- Police Clearance Certificates
- Medical Exam Results
- Resume/CV
How to Apply for the Quebec Selection Certificate?
Now that you are well versed with Quebec Selection Certificate eligibility and requirements let us learn further about the application process. The process to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) is as follows:
Step 1: Gather Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including educational credentials, work experience letters, approved language test results (like TEF for French and IELTS for English), and financial documents.
Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Create a profile in the Arrima portal, Quebec's online immigration system, and submit an EOI.
Step 3: Invitation to Apply: If your EOI meets the criteria, you will receive an invitation to apply for the CSQ.
Step 4: Complete the Application: Submit a complete application along with all required documents.
Step 5: Pay the Fees: Pay the processing fee for the CSQ application.
Step 6: Interview (if required): Some applicants may be required to attend an interview with Quebec immigration officials.
Also Read: Why does Quebec have Immigration Policies of Their Own?
What is the Processing Time for Quebec Selection?
The processing time for the Quebec Selection Certificate can vary based on several factors, including the volume of applications received and the complexity of individual cases. On average, the Quebec selection certificate processing time ranges from 6 to 18 months.
What Comes After Obtaining Quebec Selection
After receiving a CSQ, the applicant must then submit a separate application for permanent residence to Canadian federal immigration authorities. Since Quebec has already selected the applicant for immigration, the federal authorities will primarily focus on criminal and medical background checks. This stage requires police clearance certificates and medical examination results.
Additionally, federal immigration authorities will review the applicant's travel history and may request further documentation to verify information provided in the CSQ application. In some cases, applicants might be called for an interview.
How to I Apply for PR after Quebec Selection
To apply for Permanent Residence after Québec Selection, you’ll need to go through the following step:
Step 1: Apply for a CSQ
- Associate with Quebec Immigration Steam that you are eligible for, such as Regular Skilled Worker Program, Quebec Experience Program.
- Create an account on the Arrima platform.
- Submit your application through the Arrima platform, including your application form, supporting documents, and payment of fees.
- You can apply for a CSQ on paper if you have difficulties applying online.
Step 2: Apply for Permanent Residence with IRCC
- Once you have a CSQ, you are only eligible to apply for permanent residence in Canada.
- Submit your permanent residence application to IRCC, using the online portal.
Also Read: How PSW and ECE Programs Lead to Permanent Residency in Canada?
How Do I get a Quebec Acceptance Certificate
To obtain Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ), you need to follow the following steps:
Steps |
Details |
Receive a Letter of Acceptance |
Obtain an official admission letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Quebec. This letter is required to start your CAQ application. |
Apply for Temporary Selection (CAQ) |
Submit an online application for temporary selection for studies (Québec Acceptance Certificate - CAQ) through the Quebec government website. Create an Arrima account to proceed. |
Submit Required Documents |
Upload necessary documents via Arrima, including: - Passport identity pages - Letter of admission from the DLI - Proof of financial capacity. Documents must be in English or French, or accompanied by certified translations. |
Receive Confirmation |
After submitting your application and documents, you’ll receive a confirmation message in your Arrima message center and a file number. This confirms your application is being processed. |
CAQ Issued |
If approved, you will receive a letter in your online file confirming the issuance of your CAQ (processing time is typically about 25 business days). |
Study Permit Application |
With your CAQ, apply online for a federal study permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Submit the CAQ, admission letter, and other required documents |
Also Read: Canada Visa Rejection Reasons 2025: For PR, Students, and Travelers
Quebec’s Immigration Programs in 2025
In 2025, Quebec is welcoming between 48,500 and 51,500 immigrants, with a focus on economic immigration. Here are the immigration programs in 2025:
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
- Programme de l’expérience québécoise (Quebec Experience Class, PEQ)
- Quebec Investor Program
- Quebec Entrepreneur Program
- Quebec Self-Employed Person Program
Each of these programs has specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet to receive a CSQ. These criteria typically consider factors such as civil status, work history, education, language skills, family background, experience in Quebec, and financial assets.
Also Read: Quebec Imposes New Limits on Spousal Sponsorship Applications Starting June 26
What is the Difference Between CAQ & CSQ in Quebec
The Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) allows for a temporary stay in the province, distinct from the Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), which is for permanent residency. Here are some key differences between CAQ & CSQ.
Document |
Issuing Authority |
Who Needs It? |
Validity |
Role in Immigration Process |
Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) |
Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) |
Individuals seeking to immigrate permanently to Quebec through economic programs (e.g., skilled workers, investors, entrepreneurs) |
24 months or until IRCC makes a decision on permanent residence |
Required to apply for Canadian permanent residence through federal authorities; not a visa or permit for entry into Canada. |
Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) |
Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) |
International students (for studies at a DLI) and temporary foreign workers (with a Quebec job offer) |
Duration of study program or work contract, aligned with study/work permit |
Prerequisite for study/work permit; required for temporary stay; for some, a prerequisite for CSQ application. |
Also Read: Canada’s New Immigration Rules 2025 and Beyond: Guide for Newcomers
Time To Secure Your CSQ! Seek GetGIS Assistance
Obtaining a Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ) is a critical step for those aiming to immigrate to Quebec. With thorough preparation and adherence to the guidelines, you can enhance your chances of being selected to start a new chapter of your life in Quebec.
To facilitate your prospects to Quebec Canada, for the most accurate and up-to-date information, always look to GetGIS Canada assistance team. Our immigration consultants are here to guide you with everything from documentation handling, IELTS training, visa process, and post-landing assistance to ensure your safe and secured integration into Canadian land.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the CSQ Guarantee Permanent Residency?
Is Quebec Easy for Obtaining Permanent Residency?
How to Obtain a CSQ Without French?
What is the Difference Between CAQ and CSQ?
Does the CSQ Expire in Quebec?