On August 28, 2025, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration (MIFI) issued 231 invitations to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) through the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ).
Candidates were invited under two different program streams, based on their work experience in non-regulated skilled professions or their exceptional talent and abilities.
August 28 Draw Results
Highly Qualified and Specialized Skills Stream (Stream 1)
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227 candidates were invited.
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Eligibility requirements included:
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Already residing in Quebec.
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Holding a Quebec diploma (university, college, or vocational secondary school).
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University level: at least 30 credits.
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College/vocational: completion of a program with at least 900 study hours.
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Minimum score of 760 on Quebec’s scoring grid.
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Meeting the general eligibility rules for Stream 1.
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Exceptional Talent Stream (Stream 4)
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4 candidates were invited.
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Eligibility requirements included:
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Holding a PhD.
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At least three years of work experience in their main profession within the past five years.
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Meeting the general eligibility rules for Stream 4.
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Recent Quebec Immigration Updates
In June 2025, Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge announced new provincial immigration guidelines for the next four years.
Actions Already Taken
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Suspension of applications under the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) – Workers pathway until November 30, 2025.
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Extension of suspension for PEQ – Diplômes until November 30, 2025.
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Announcement of the re-opening of the PSTQ in July 2025.
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Extension of the suspension of intake for the Program for Refugees Abroad (Collective Sponsorship) until December 31, 2027.
Actions Being Proposed
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Setting new targets for temporary resident levels, including a reduction in overall numbers.
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Reducing temporary foreign workers in Quebec from 72,000 to 65,000 over four years.
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Cutting temporary foreign workers in Montreal by 50%.
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Giving priority to existing temporary residents in Quebec for permanent residence.
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Requiring temporary foreign workers to demonstrate a minimum level of French language proficiency to renew their work permits.
Public consultation on these proposals closed on August 15, 2025, and a finalized immigration levels plan is expected in October 2025.
What This Means for Applicants
The August 28 draw highlights Quebec’s focus on attracting highly skilled graduates, professionals, and exceptional talent. At the same time, proposed policy changes indicate a shift toward reducing reliance on temporary foreign workers and emphasizing French language integration.
Applicants looking to settle in Quebec should stay updated on these developments, especially with the PSTQ reopening and new immigration levels plan expected later this year.
