Immigration Announcement
Quebec Reopens 3 Key Immigration Pilot Programs to Address Labor Shortages in 2025

Quebec is taking proactive measures to fill labor gaps in its vital sectors with the reopening of 3 key immigration pilot programs starting January 13, 2025. These programs are specifically designed to attract skilled workers to Quebec in crucial industries, such as food processing, healthcare, and advanced technology. Successful candidates could potentially obtain permanent residence (PR) in Canada, offering a pathway to a stable future in this vibrant province.
What Are the 3 Key Pilot Programs Reopened in Quebec?
Quebec’s government has decided to reopen 3 Key Immigration Pilot Programs that were initially launched in 2021. These programs target specific labor sectors and aim to address shortages in:
- Food Processing Industry
- Beneficiary Attendant and Healthcare Services
- Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, and Visual Effects
From January 13, 2025, until December 31, 2025, Quebec will accept up to 600 applications each for the Food Processing Workers (PP TA) and Beneficiary Attendants (PP PAB) programs. Meanwhile, the Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, and Visual Effects Workers (PP IA/TI-EV) will see 600 applications split between the two components: AI and ITVE, with a cap of 150 applications for each in the Francisation profile.
Eligibility and Requirements for Each Program
Food Processing Workers (PP TA)
To be eligible for the Food Processing Workers program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old and intend to settle in Quebec.
- Hold a secondary school diploma or professional studies diploma from Quebec.
- Have at least 24 months of eligible, full-time work experience in the food processing sector in Quebec within the past 36 months.
- Show proficiency in spoken French at level 7 on the Quebec Scale.
- Demonstrate the ability to be financially independent.
This program is particularly geared towards workers in the food manufacturing and beverage manufacturing industries.
Beneficiary Attendant Program (PP PAB)
The Beneficiary Attendant program is composed of two components:
- For individuals with at least 24 months of experience as a beneficiary attendant.
- For individuals who complete a Quebec vocational studies diploma and gain at least 12 months of full-time work experience in Quebec.
In both components, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in French, with evidence of language proficiency at level 7. Work experience must be legal, paid, and obtained in a business over which the applicant has no control.
Artificial Intelligence, IT, and Visual Effects Workers (PP IA/TI-EV)
The AI and ITVE programs focus on attracting highly skilled professionals in the technology sector. Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be 18 years or older and intend to settle in Quebec.
- Hold a Quebec baccalaureate or equivalent or have a master’s or doctorate in AI or related fields.
- Have at least 24 months of full-time work experience in AI, IT, or visual effects, or hold a relevant job offer in these fields in Quebec.
- Show proficiency in French at level 7 for the Francisation profile.
Additionally, applicants applying under the AI component must submit an opinion from a committee of experts, ensuring that their employment aligns with the skills profile in the AI industry.
Why are these Programs important for Quebec’s future?
Quebec’s labor market is facing significant challenges, with skilled worker shortages impacting key industries. By reopening these immigration pilot programs, the province aims to address these gaps, ensure its economic growth, and continue to thrive in a competitive global market. With the demand for skilled workers in areas like food processing, healthcare, and technology, these pilot programs are crucial for attracting the talent needed to fill vacancies.
Furthermore, these programs also provide a viable path to permanent residence in Canada, which is a significant opportunity for foreign workers to establish a future in one of the country’s most dynamic provinces.
How to Apply for Quebec’s Immigration Pilot Programs
If you’re interested in applying for one of Quebec’s immigration pilot programs, here’s a brief overview of the application process:
Step 1: Ensure you meet the specific eligibility requirements for your chosen program.
Step 2: Submit the necessary documents, including proof of French language proficiency and work experience.
Step 3: Be mindful of the application deadlines and the cap on the number of applications accepted for each program.
These programs will be open until December 31, 2025, with the goal of receiving a limited number of applications per sector, so timely application submission is essential.
Building a Pathway to a Bright Future in Quebec
Quebec’s decision to reopen these immigration pilot programs signals its commitment to filling labor shortages and fostering economic growth. Skilled workers in fields such as food processing, healthcare, and technology now have a clear and accessible path to Canadian permanent residence.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and are eager to contribute to Quebec’s economy, these programs present a unique opportunity. Don’t miss your chance to be part of Quebec’s promising future and take the first step toward establishing your life in Canada. By focusing on sectors critical to Quebec’s future, these programs aim to fill urgent labor gaps and ensure that Quebec continues to grow as an economic powerhouse.