On October 1^st 2018, Quebec citizens have elected a new government, the Coalition Avenir Quebec. François Legault, the new prime ministry of Quebec, have made several promises about immigration policies, for example reducing the number of immigrants from 50,000 to 40,000 for 2019 and to subject new immigrants to a French-language and values test.

In the already-difficult to navigate Quebec immigration system, this announcement might put an additional strain on English-speaking immigrants desiring to immigrate to Quebec.

Quebec admitted a little over 50,000 immigrants last year. The government commits to cutting that number by 20%, to set the number of immigrants to 40,000 per year. Considering that these numbers include refugee and family reunification programs, programs in which Quebec has no jurisdiction, the only way Quebec will cut this number will be in reducing the candidates it will select by the Regular Skilled Workers program;

The new government also plans to implement mandatory French-language and Quebec values test to newcomers. They will have to pass these tests within 3 yeas of arriving in Quebec. It is still unclear how Quebec plans to implement these measures and enforce them.

Furthermore, there is a shortage of workers in Quebec, especially outside of the Montreal area. The new government have not stated any measures to attract immigrants to the regions.

With all the difficulties ahead, why should English-speaking immigrants still consider Quebec? Aside from the possible new mandatory French-language test to new immigrants, there are still ways to obtain a CSQ without having the sufficient level of French, for example by having high education and work experience. Having a job offer validation is also an useful way of getting CSQ without knowing French.

Whether immigrating to Quebec or to any other Canadian province, the immigration system is in constant change. What might be true today will not be anymore tomorrow. Seeking good advice from immigration professionals will be key to succeed at your goal of gaining Canadian permanent residency in the years to come.

Disclaimer : The content of this blog is not legal advice and and may not be accurate or complete. If you require legal advice, contact a licensed legal practitioner directly.