Quebec PSTQ invitation activity resumed strongly in December as the province issued a large round of invitations under the Skilled Worker Selection Program (Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés, PSTQ).
After a three month pause, Quebec invited 1,870 candidates on December 4, drawing profiles from the Arrima bank that were ranked on December 1, 2025, at 3:00 p.m.
This round covered all four PSTQ streams, signaling Quebec’s continued effort to attract workers across skill levels, regulated professions, and exceptional talent categories. The draw reflects sustained labor demand both inside and outside the Montréal Metropolitan Community.
Overview Of The December Quebec PSTQ Invitation
The December 4 Quebec PSTQ invitation round selected candidates across the following streams:
- Stream 1: Highly qualified and specialized skills
- Stream 2: Intermediate and manual skills
- Stream 3: Regulated professions
- Stream 4: Exceptional talent
The invitations were issued following a three month gap, increasing interest among PSTQ candidates 2024 and those actively monitoring Quebec immigration pathways. Selection criteria varied by stream, with different score thresholds, work experience requirements, and French language benchmarks.
Stream 1: Highly Qualified And Specialized Skills
Under Stream 1, Quebec issued 605 invitations to candidates with highly qualified or specialized skills. These invitations were distributed between candidates residing in Quebec and those living outside the Montréal Metropolitan Community.
To qualify under this stream, candidates were required to meet several core criteria. Applicants needed a minimum Arrima score of 781 points, unless they were working outside Montréal in specific manufacturing occupations, where the minimum score dropped to 644 points.
Eligible candidates had to work in NOC FEER categories 0, 1, or 2 and could not intend to practise a regulated profession listed by the Quebec Minister. At least 12 months of relevant work experience within the last five years was mandatory, along with completion of a recognized Quebec diploma program of at least 900 hours.
French language requirements were also central. Candidates needed level 7 proficiency in oral comprehension and production, and level 5 in written comprehension. Accompanying spouses were required to demonstrate at least level 4 oral French.
Occupations targeted under the reduced score threshold included mechanical engineering technologists, welders, and food and beverage processing supervisors, highlighting Quebec’s manufacturing labour needs.
Stream 2: Intermediate And Manual Skills
Quebec also invited 604 candidates through Stream 2, which focuses on intermediate and manual occupations. This stream primarily targeted individuals residing outside the Montréal area.
Candidates needed to work in occupations classified under NOC FEER categories 3, 4, or 5. A minimum of 24 months of relevant work experience within the last five years was required. French proficiency at level 5 or higher in both oral and written skills was mandatory.
The minimum score for this stream was set at 573 points, although candidates in high demand occupations required at least 612 points. Selected occupations included butchers, bakers and pastry chefs, and tailors, reflecting Quebec’s ongoing demand for skilled trades and food production workers.
Stream 3: Regulated Professions
Stream 3 saw the highest number of invitations in this round, with 649 candidates selected. This stream targets professionals intending to practise regulated occupations in Quebec.
Eligible candidates had to work in NOC FEER categories 0, 1, or 2 and demonstrate an intention to practice a regulated profession recognized by Quebec authorities. French language requirements mirrored those of Stream 1, with level 7 oral and level 5 written proficiency.
The standard minimum score for this stream was 717 points. However, some candidates were invited with scores as low as 535 points depending on their occupation and sector demand.
Occupations invited under Stream 3 included civil engineers, dentists, and registered nurses. Healthcare professionals such as general practitioners and family physicians could qualify with at least one year of work experience in Quebec, underscoring the province’s healthcare workforce priorities.
Stream 4: Exceptional Talent
The smallest portion of the draw was under Stream 4, where Quebec invited 12 candidates classified as exceptional talent. This stream is designed for individuals with outstanding achievements in strategic fields such as research, arts, sports, or innovation.
Candidates needed a positive evaluation from a recognized Ministry partner and at least 36 months of relevant work experience. Those listed on the Ministry’s List of Exceptional Accomplishments were also eligible. In many cases, holding a doctorate equivalent to a Quebec PhD was required alongside the professional experience.
This stream continues to function as a highly selective pathway for individuals whose contributions are considered strategically valuable to Quebec.
What This Quebec PSTQ Invitation Means For Candidates
This large scale draw demonstrates Quebec’s flexibility in selecting workers across a wide spectrum of occupations and skill levels. The inclusion of candidates outside Montréal highlights the province’s focus on regional labor shortages, while the strong presence of healthcare, manufacturing, and skilled trades reflects current economic priorities.
Candidates in the Arrima bank should pay close attention to French language benchmarks, occupation targeting, and regional preferences, as these factors significantly influence selection outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- Quebec issued 1,870 PSTQ invitations on December 4 after a three month pause
- All four PSTQ streams were included in the draw
- Stream 3 regulated professions recorded the highest number of invitations
- French proficiency and occupation demand played a major role in selection
- Lower score thresholds applied to candidates outside Montréal in key sectors
This Quebec PSTQ invitation round confirms the province’s continued reliance on targeted immigration to address labour shortages and support economic growth. Candidates with strong French skills, relevant work experience, and occupations aligned with Quebec’s priorities remain well positioned for future draws. Staying informed and maintaining an updated Arrima profile will be critical as Quebec continues issuing invitations under the PSTQ.
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