The Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), also known as Certificat de sélection du Québec, is a crucial document for individuals seeking to immigrate to the province of Quebec, Canada. Quebec, the largest province in Canada, has its own unique immigration system that allows it to select immigrants based on its specific demographic and labor market needs. The CSQ serves as an invitation from the Government of Quebec to candidates to apply for permanent residency in the province. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the Quebec Selection Certificate, how to obtain it, and the next steps after obtaining this vital document.
The Quebec Selection Certificate is not the same as a permanent residency; it is a critical step toward becoming a permanent resident of Quebec. Before applying for permanent residency through the federal government’s Express Entry system or other immigration programs, candidates interested in settling in Quebec must first obtain a CSQ from the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) – the Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Quebec Selection Certificate, candidates must go through a two-step process. The first step involves applying to the government of Quebec for a Certificat de sélection du Québec. The eligibility requirements for a CSQ vary depending on the immigration category under which an individual applies. The primary immigration categories for obtaining a CSQ are:
Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP): This program is for skilled workers who intend to live and work in Quebec. Eligibility is assessed based on factors such as education, work experience, language proficiency, age, and adaptability.
Quebec Experience Program (PEQ): The PEQ is designed for individuals who have studied or worked in Quebec and wish to become permanent residents. Applicants must meet specific education and work experience requirements.
Quebec Business Immigration Programs: These programs target entrepreneurs, investors, and self-employed individuals interested in starting or acquiring a business in Quebec.
Quebec Family Sponsorship: Quebec residents and Canadian citizens can sponsor their eligible family members to obtain a CSQ.

Obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ)
The process of obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate involves several steps and can vary depending on the immigration category. Before applying for a CSQ, candidates must determine their eligibility under the specific immigration category they wish to apply for. Each category has different eligibility criteria and requirements.
- For the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP), candidates typically begin by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Arrima portal. The EOI provides information about the candidate’s education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors that determine eligibility.
- Based on the information provided in the EOI, candidates may receive an invitation to apply for a CSQ if they meet the program’s eligibility requirements.
- Once invited to apply, candidates must complete a formal application for the CSQ. This application requires submitting supporting documents, such as educational credentials, work experience letters, language test results, and other required documents.
- The MIFI reviews the CSQ application and supporting documents to assess the candidate’s eligibility and adherence to program criteria. Processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications and the immigration category.
- If the MIFI approves the CSQ application, the candidate will receive a Quebec Selection Certificate, which signifies that they have been selected to apply for permanent residency in Quebec.
Once an applicant receives the Quebec Selection Certificate, they become eligible to apply for permanent residency through the federal government’s immigration system. The next steps will depend on the immigration category under which the candidate applied for the CSQ:
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
- Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
- Quebec Business Immigration Programs

CSQ Application Checklist
A CSQ (Quebec Selection Certificate) application checklist helps applicants ensure that they have all the necessary documents and information before submitting their application to the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) – the Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration. While specific requirements may vary based on the immigration category and the applicant’s circumstances, the following is a general checklist that can serve as a reference:
Main List of Documents to Send:
- Application for Selection Certificate — skilled worker — Principal Applicant, Spouse or de facto spouse (PDF 664 Kb)
- Documents to submit in support of the Application for a Certificat de sélection du Québec (PDF 559 Kb)
- Financial Self-Sufficiency Contract — Skilled Workers (PDF 277 Kb)
- Declaration of the candidate for immigration (PDF 562 Kb)
- Declaration of a candidate practising the teaching profession in preschool, elementary or secondary school (PDF 514 Kb)
- Declaration by spouse or de facto spouse (PDF 563 Kb)
- Declaration by a physician trained outside Canada and the United States (PDF 553 Kb)
- Declaration by a candidate practising a regulated trade or profession (PDF 553 Kb)
- Declaration on the democratic values and the Québec values (PDF 142 Kb)
- Immigration consultant certificate (PDF 550 Kb)
- Power of attorney (PDF 186 Kb)
Personal Documents
- Valid passport for the principal applicant and all accompanying family members
- Birth certificates for the principal applicant and accompanying family members
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Divorce or separation documents (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificate or criminal record check from each country where the principal applicant and family members have resided for more than six months in the past ten years
2. Language Proficiency:
- Language test results (e.g., IELTS, TEF) to demonstrate proficiency in French and/or English as required by the specific immigration category
3. Education and Training:
- Educational diplomas, certificates, and transcripts for the principal applicant and accompanying family members
- Educational equivalency assessments, if required, for foreign educational credentials
4. Work Experience:
- Employment letters or certificates from previous employers to prove work experience, if applicable
- Résumé or curriculum vitae detailing work history and job duties
5. Financial Capacity:
- Proof of funds or financial support to demonstrate the ability to support oneself and family members during the settlement period in Quebec
6. Relationship Documents:
- Proof of relationship to accompanying family members, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or adoption documents
7. Quebec-Specific Documents:
- Documentation related to any connection or ties to Quebec, such as a job offer, a Quebec diploma, or a family member living in Quebec (if applicable)
8. Immigration Forms and Application Fees:
- Completed application forms specific to the immigration category (e.g., Quebec Skilled Worker Program, Quebec Experience Program)
- Payment of the required application fees (varies based on the immigration category and the number of accompanying family members)
9. Declaration and Consent Forms:
- Signed and dated declarations and consent forms as required by the application
10. Translation and Notarization:
- If documents are not in French or English, provide certified translations
- Some documents may require notarization or authentication by a recognized authority
11. Photographs:
- Passport-sized photographs that meet the specifications outlined in the application guide
Before submitting the CSQ application, it is essential to carefully review the official application guide and checklist provided by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration. Immigration requirements can change, so applicants should always ensure they have the most up-to-date information and follow the instructions provided by the government. Properly organizing and completing the application checklist will help applicants avoid delays or rejections and increase the chances of a successful CSQ application.