Quebec has reopened three immigration pilot schemes that offer skilled employees in AI (Artificial Intelligence), IT (Information Technology, and visual effects with a route to permanent residency.
The schemes introduced in 2021 intended to address ongoing labor depletions in these sectors. Based on Quebec’s immigration service, these schemes approve new requests, aiming at industries significant to the region’s workforce. The pilot programs are designed to entice skilled employees with the certifications and skills required to satisfy labor requirements in these areas.
Qualification Measures For Candidates
Candidates are required to satisfy specific requirements to be qualified. General conditions comprise of:
- Being above the age of 18 years
- Indicating financial autonomy and planning to live in Quebec to operate in a qualified industry.
- Candidates are not required to operate for a firm they control directly or indirectly.
For the AI (Artificial Intelligence) element, international employees require a minimum of 24 months of full-time skill in Artificial Intelligence or an associated area, classified as FEER 0,1 or 2 under the National Occupational Classification (NOC)
Quebec graduates with a recent master’s or doctoral degree in Artificial Intelligence can apply. All candidates must get a full-time job in Quebec’s AI industry. The income threshold is $75,000 outside Montreal or $100,000 within Montreal.
Furthermore, they must present an opinion from a specialist committee verifying that the role matches their certifications.
The Information Technology (IT) and Visual Effects element needs candidates to possess a minimum of 24 months of applicable employment skills and a technical college diploma or higher.
Candidates must also satisfy income conditions depending on the 9th decile of their career’s income scale. They are not required to work in an unqualified industry or for a firm they control.
French Language Skill And Francization Conditions
The two elements provide two application tracks depending on language skills. The Francophone profile requires the least French language skill, Level 7 on the Quebec Scale of Competency Levels, which can be indicated via an identified language exam or educational history.
The Francization profile concerns a dedication to learning French after selection via integration services.
Unqualified Industries And Application Procedure
Specific industries, which include pawnshops, adult entertainment, and payday loans, are unqualified for the program. Candidates with employment skills in these industries will not be regarded.
For the AI element, applicants must present an opinion from the committee of specialists verifying that the employment matches their experiences. While a favorable opinion is necessary, it does not guarantee a Quebec Selection Certificate.
For more details on qualifications or to apply, applicants can visit the Quebec Immigration webpage or contact the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration during working hours.