As of 2025, Canada's immigration landscape continues to evolve, with distinct approaches at the federal and provincial levels. While the federal government oversees the main immigration pathways for most provinces and territories, Quebec maintains its own unique immigration system under a special agreement with the federal government. Understanding the differences between these two systems is essential for prospective immigrants who wish to settle in Canada.

Federal Immigration Programs Overview

The federal immigration system is largely managed through the Express Entry framework, which includes:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)

In addition to Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows provinces to nominate candidates who meet regional labor market needs. The International Experience Canada program is reserved for candidates between 18 and 35 years of age (depending on the nationalities), and is divided into different categories: the International Co-op Internship, the Young Professionals Permit and the Working Holiday Permit.

A noteworthy update in 2025 is the removal of additional CRS points for valid job offers under Express Entry, which may significantly impact applicant strategies. The Francophone Mobility Program, running until June, 2025, also continues to provide open work opportunities for French-speaking candidates outside Quebec.

Other ongoing federal streams include:

• Start-Up Visa Program for entrepreneurs

• Atlantic Immigration Program

• Rural Community Immigration Pilot

Quebec Immigration Programs Overview

Quebec operates a separate immigration system with exclusive authority over selection criteria for economic immigrants. Key programs include:

• Skilled Worker Selection Program (SWSP) - previously called the Regular Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)*

• Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)

Applicants must first obtain a CSQ (Certificat de sélection du Québec) before applying for permanent residence at the federal level. Quebec has continued to emphasize French language proficiency, and recent updates include revised criteria for PEQ and a focus on regional immigration.

Please note that those programs are temporarily suspended until June 30th 2025 by the ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI).

Key Differences Between Federal and Quebec Systems

In 2025, both the federal and Quebec immigration systems present a wide range of opportunities tailored to applicants with diverse backgrounds and goals. Staying updated with evolving program criteria and choosing the path aligned with your qualifications and settlement goals will be key to a successful immigration journey to Canada.

*: The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP), which has long served as an important route for individuals seeking to settle in the province, has now been officially renamed the Skilled Worker Selection Program (SWSP)

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