Quebec Issues 1,870 Invitations in Its Largest Arrima Draw of 2025

The invitations went to all four PSTQ streams and show that Quebec is focusing on people already living in the province who speak French. It also targets those working in manufacturing, health care, and other regulated jobs that need more workers.

This draw was much larger than the previous round on August 28, which invited only 231 candidates across Streams 1 and 4. The December draw invited more than eight times as many candidates and included all four streams. 

Key Takeaways Quebec’s December 4 Draw 

A total of 1,870 candidates received invitations to apply for permanent selection under the PSTQ: 

• Stream 1: Highly Qualified & Specialized Skills – 605 invitations 

• Stream 2: Intermediate & Manual Skills – 604 invitations 

• Stream 3: Regulated Professions – 649 invitations 

• Stream 4: Exceptional Talent – 12 invitations 

Follow our PNP tracker to keep up to date with the latest draws. 

What Were the Requirements? 

Each stream has its own criteria, but they share a few core requirements. Most invited candidates: 

• were already living in Quebec,  

• had recent work experience in the province, and  

• met the French-language requirements tied to their occupation level 

Score cutoffs also shaped the selection. Stream 1 started at 781 points. Stream 2 ranged from 573 to 612. Stream 3 spanned 535 to 717. Stream 4 did not publish a minimum score. 

French-Language Requirements 

French was central to this draw. Most candidates needed Level 5 or higher for intermediate-skilled roles, and Level 7 oral proficiency for higher-skilled professions. These expectations remain a key part of Quebec’s approach. 

Analysis of the December 4 Quebec Draw 

The Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) reopened in July 2025, and the end of the Québec Experience Program (PEQ) in November shifted the government’s focus toward candidates already connected to the province. 

Stream 1: Focus on Candidates Already Established in Quebec 

Stream 1 invited people who had already begun building their lives in Quebec. This includes those with Quebec diplomas and work experience in FEER 0–2 jobs. Many invited candidates worked in manufacturing and food processing roles outside Montreal. 

Stream 2: Demand in Manufacturing and Manual Skill Sectors 

Stream 2 showed a similar trend but targeted FEER 3–5 roles. These are hands-on jobs that keep major industries running. Many selected candidates were based outside the Montreal Metropolitan Community, where shortages remain common. 

Stream 3: Continued Priority for Regulated Professions 

Stream 3 had the most invitations. This reflects Quebec’s ongoing need for workers in health care, engineering, education, and skilled trades. 

Stream 4: Exceptional Talent and Advanced Research Profiles 

Stream 4 was again the smallest category, as with the two previous draws this year. It continued to invite people with notable achievements or strong academic backgrounds in research, innovation, and specialized fields. 

Planning for What Comes Next 

This draw follows Quebec’s release of its 2026–2029 immigration plan. The plan aims to better manage the number of temporary and permanent residents, and also makes the PSTQ the main route for skilled workers.  

In 2026, Quebec plans to welcome 45,000 permanent residents, down from the 50,000 targeted in the 2025 plan. The province will also limit access to temporary worker programs, especially in Montreal, while placing more focus on French integration for those already living in Quebec. 

This December 4 draw may end up being one of the larger rounds for some time. While candidates already in Quebec continue to have the best chance of being selected. 

So, applicants should keep their Arrima profiles updated and double-check their language test details. Knowing the most recent requirements and which sectors Quebec is targeting can help you plan your next steps with more confidence.