The suggestion (Law 77) came into effect April 16, 2016. The new system aims to respond better to Quebec's ongoing labour market needs by adopting an Expression of Interest (EOI) model; the government can assemble a bank of candidates best suited to Quebec’s needs. Candidates are then be invited to apply for immigration on a priority basis.
The Minister stated that “We just adopted Bill 77 and I tabled a policy,”. “In my policy, what’s in there is a major, major reform of our immigration system, how we select, how we’re going to better integrate these immigrants and how we’re all going to live together in social cohesion. Until Quebec establish the new selection system there will be a transitional period.
In addition to Bill 77 Quebec requested 20% increase in its annual immigration cap from 50000 to 60000 new immigrants but last week the Quebec immigration backed up from request and announced the government's decision to keep immigration levels closer to 50,000 for the time being, rather than the 60,000 that was proposed last month.
Rather, it is taking a more gradual approach than originally planned. Through the Canada-Quebec Accord, Quebec has greater jurisdiction over immigration policy than other Canadian provinces.
In announcement of 'Ensemble, nous sommes le Québec' last month, the government stated the following objectives: • Maximize economic participation by prioritizing candidates whose profiles meet labour market needs and who can contribute to the vitality of the French language; • Reduce delays matching qualified candidates and in-demand employment opportunities; • Introduce a flexible and dynamic system that allows the government to continually adapt selection criteria, invitation frequency, and the number of candidates; and • Allow Québec to remain competitive with other countries that have introduced similar systems.
The government states that the online application process for those wishing to immigrate to Québec will be simple, fast, and efficient. This will allow Québec to be competitive internationally.
The government of Québec says that 'Like many other societies, Québec is facing significant demographic change, including a slowdown in population growth, a decline in the working-age population, and an aging population. Without productivity gains, these changes will have serious consequences on Québec's prosperity. It is not yet known when the new system will be operational.
During the transitional time Quebec will accept 10000 applications from Skilled workers in two selection periods as follow: • Up to 5,000 applications will be accepted during the period June 13 to June 20, 2016. When this number is reached, applicants who do not have an account may create one with a view to the next intake period. • During this second period, the dates of which will be established later, the Ministère will also receive 5,000 applications. Applicants who has at least one year valid temporary study or work permit may apply outside limited cap. • 1900 applications from Investors through Quebec investor program will be accepted from May 30th 2016 to February 28th 2017. Applicants who can submit French language proficiency test result can apply outside limited cap. • 50 applications in each entrepreneur and self employed programs. Applicants who can submit French language proficiency test result can apply outside limited cap.
