2026 Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSW) ARRIMA Complete Guide
Latest policy interpretation, precise score calculator, application process and success strategies
32,5002026 Quota
1320ARRIMA Max Score
520-550Recent Draw Scores
6-18 monthsProcessing Time
Program Overview
Understanding the 2026 Quebec Skilled Worker Program QSW
2026 Updates: Quota increased to 32,500, ARRIMA system optimized, higher weight for French proficiency and Quebec experience.
Program Advantages
- No employer sponsorship required
- Sufficient quota (32,500)
- High points for French
- Transparent online application
- Excellent quality of life in Quebec
2025 Draw Trends
- Draw scores: 520-550 points
- 15-25 points higher than 2024
- 1-2 draws monthly
- French proficiency is key
Eligibility Details
Basic QSW Program Requirements
Reminder: Must meet basic requirements and achieve ARRIMA score (520-550 points).
Age
18-50 years, 18-28 years gets maximum 130 points.
Education
Minimum high school diploma, requires credential assessment, PhD gets maximum 100 points.
Language
French or English proficiency, French B2 or above is best (180 points).
ARRIMA Scoring System
Total 1320 points, key scoring components explained
Score Weight Distribution
ARRIMA Score Calculator
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Estimated ARRIMA Score (Max 1320 points)
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Application Process Details
Complete steps from preparation to permanent residence
1
Preparation Stage
1-6 months
Prepare education credential assessment, language test results, etc.
- Education credential assessment (MIFI/WES)
- TEF/TCF Canada results
- Employment verification
- Proof of funds
2
Submit EOI
1-2 weeks
Create profile in ARRIMA system, submit Expression of Interest.
- Register ARRIMA account
- Fill in personal information
- Upload documents
3
Wait for Invitation
6-24 months
Wait for MIFI invitation, higher scores prioritized.
- Update ARRIMA profile
- Monitor draw results
- Improve score
Success Strategy Analysis
Practical suggestions to improve ARRIMA score
French Proficiency
Aim for B2/C1 level, maximum 180 points.
- Enroll in French courses
- Take TEF/TCF exams
- Free Quebec courses
Quebec Work Experience
4+ years experience earns 100 points.
- Apply for work permit
- Choose in-demand occupations
- Areas outside Montreal
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to QSW application questions
What are the basic eligibility requirements for the 2026 Quebec Skilled Worker Program QSW?
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Basic QSW requirements include: age 18-50, at least high school education, French or English proficiency, sufficient proof of funds, good health, and no criminal record. The ARRIMA system requires meeting scoring thresholds, currently between 520-550 points.
What is the total ARRIMA scoring system and how is it calculated?
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The ARRIMA scoring system has a maximum of 1320 points, including: French proficiency (max 180 points), spouse’s French (40 points), English-French combination (80 points), age (130 points), work experience (100 points), education (120 points), occupation in demand (100 points), Quebec diploma (60 points), Quebec work experience (100 points), and job offer (580 points).
How to improve ARRIMA score to ensure invitation?
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Key strategies include improving French to B2 or C1 level (180 points), gaining Quebec work experience (100 points), choosing in-demand occupations (100 points), and obtaining a job offer outside Montreal (580 points).
What is the ARRIMA system and how to use it?
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ARRIMA is Quebec Immigration Ministry’s online application system for submitting Expression of Interest (EOI). Applicants need to create an account, fill in personal information, education, work experience, etc. The system issues invitations regularly based on scoring rankings.
How is French proficiency tested? Which exams are recognized?
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French proficiency must be certified through TEF Canada, TCF Canada or DELF/DALF exams. B2 level and above receives high scores, with C1/C2 receiving the maximum 180 points.
How does English proficiency affect QSW scoring?
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English combined with French can earn additional points, up to 80 points (advanced English + French C2). English alone doesn’t earn points and must be combined with French proficiency.
What is the QSW quota for 2026?
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The 2026 QSW quota is 32,500, an increase of about 10% from 2025.
How much proof of funds is required for QSW application?
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Single applicant needs to prove CAD $3,719, couples need CAD $5,569, with specific amounts based on family size (2026 standards).
How to obtain a job offer? Why are points higher outside Montreal?
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Job offers must come from Quebec-recognized employers. Montreal area offers 380 points, while other regions offer 580 points to promote development in remote areas.
How to check in-demand occupations?
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Check the latest in-demand occupation list through MIFI website or ARRIMA system. Common fields include IT, healthcare, engineering, etc., with maximum 100 points.
How to gain Quebec work experience?
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Work in Quebec through work permits. 4+ years of experience can earn 100 points. Recommended to apply for PEQ or temporary work visa.
How long does education credential assessment take?
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Assessment through WES or MIFI typically takes 2-4 months, recommended to prepare in advance.
What is the ARRIMA draw frequency and score trend?
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2025-2026 has 1-2 draws monthly, with scores between 520-550. French proficiency and job offers are key factors.
How does spouse affect scoring?
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Spouse’s French proficiency (max 40 points), education (20 points) and Quebec diploma (10 points) can add points, but spouse must accompany the applicant.
Do I need a lawyer or consultant for QSW application?
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Not mandatory, but professional consultants can help optimize EOI and document preparation, increasing invitation chances.
Can EOI be modified after submission?
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EOI can be updated anytime, such as adding new language test results or work experience. Scores are automatically adjusted.
What’s the difference between QSW and PEQ programs?
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QSW is based on points ranking, suitable for those without Quebec experience; PEQ requires Quebec study or work experience with faster processing.
Are medical exams and police certificates required for QSW?
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Required after invitation, not needed at EOI stage.
Can I move to other provinces after Quebec immigration?
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Free to relocate after obtaining PR, but QSW requires intent to settle in Quebec.
Can I reapply if QSW application fails?
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If not invited, EOI remains in the pool. You can optimize your score and be re-ranked without reapplying.
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