People with a valid Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) can work in Quebec without having to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for their position. These workers are eligible to apply for the renewal or extension of their work authorization within Quebec.
Agreement with the Federal Government
Under a specific agreement with the federal government, Quebec permits certain foreign nationals selected under its economic immigration categories, specifically the Skilled Worker Program and the Quebec Experience Class, to extend or renew their work authorizations. This provision applies to individuals holding a valid work permit who currently reside in Quebec, allowing them to continue working with their current employer or to start working with a new employer without the necessity of obtaining a LMIA. Notably, there is no restriction on the occupation skill level of the position/ career opportunities being presented to a CSQ holder.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for these provisions, individuals must hold a valid CSQ and currently reside in Quebec. They must correspondingly come under one of the subsequent categories:
- Current Work Permit Holders: Applicants seeking to extend their work permit with their current employer or renew it with a different employer within Quebec.
- New Employment Seekers: Applicants seeking a new work permit with a different employer in Quebec.
- Foreign Students: Graduates who have obtained a post-graduation work permit and have secured a job offer in Quebec.
- Participants in International Experience Canada (IEC) Programs: Work permit holders through the following IEC programs:
- Working Holiday
- 18-month Young Professionals Co-op
- International Co-op (Internship)
These provisions ensure that individuals who meet the criteria can continue their professional activities in Quebec seamlessly, contributing to the province's economy without the additional hurdle of securing a LMIA.
Requirements for Work Authorization in Quebec
To obtain work authorization in Quebec, applicants must adhere to specific criteria and guidelines outlined by government norms. Here's an elaborative breakdown of the requirements:
Residency in Quebec
Applicants must currently reside in Quebec to be eligible for work authorization in the province.
Duration of Work Permit
The validity/ legitimacy of the work permit is secured to the period of the job offer and cannot surpass or exceed two years. This timeframe allows applicants ample opportunity to pursue permanent residence before the work permit expires.
Required Documentation
When submitting an application for work authorization, applicants must include copies of two essential documents:
- Valid CSQ: The CSQ must be valid and indicate one of the specified codes in section 9, Catégorie, such as "IQ – Travailleursqualifiés" or "IY – PEQ Étudiants".
- Job Offer: A job offer to work in Quebec must accompany the application.
Employer-Specific Work Permits
Work permits issued under this program are employer-specific, meaning they are tied to a particular employer, and open work permits are not issued.
Spousal Entitlements
Spouses or common-law partners accompanying the principal applicant and currently residing in Canada are entitled to apply for an open work permit. This entitlement extends for the duration of the principal applicant's work permit, regardless of the skill level of the principal applicant's occupation.
By obeying to these rules or guidelines and providing the essential credentials/ documentations, applicants can navigate the process of obtaining work authorization in Quebec effectively, ensuring compliance with government regulations and facilitating a smooth transition into the Quebec workforce.
Disclaimer: While the information provided regarding working in Quebec with a CSQ is intended to offer guidance, candidates are advised to conduct their own thorough research before making any decisions. The details provided may be subject to change, and individual circumstances may vary. Therefore, it is recommended that candidates verify the current requirements and regulations independently to ensure accuracy and relevance to their specific situation. This disclaimer serves to encourage candidates to take responsibility for their own research and decision-making process based on the information provided.
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