The PSTQ (Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés) is Quebec's points-based immigration program for skilled workers. Candidates submit an expression of interest into the Arrima pool; Quebec periodically invites the highest-ranked profiles to apply for a CSQ, the province's selection certificate.
- Full name
- Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés
- Pool
- Arrima expression of interest
- Outcome
- CSQ, then federal PR via IRCC
- Max score
- 1,400 points
Overview
The Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (Skilled Worker Selection Program) is Quebec's points-based route to a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), the province's selection certificate for skilled workers. It replaced the older Programme régulier des travailleurs qualifiés (PRTQ) and absorbed the role the Programme de l'expérience québécoise (PEQ) used to play before the PEQ closed to new applications in November 2025.
Candidates submit an expression of interest (déclaration d'intérêt) into a pool called Arrima. Quebec's ministry (MIFI) periodically invites the highest-ranked profiles to apply for permanent selection, based on a points grid and that round's specific criteria: occupation, stream, sometimes region. An invitation isn't automatic and isn't guaranteed by any score; it depends on how the round is designed and who else is in the pool that round.
The four streams
Every candidate is scored inside exactly one of four streams, determined mainly by occupation (TEER category) and whether the occupation is a regulated profession.
Getting a CSQ is not the end of the process
A CSQ selects you for Quebec. It is not permanent residence. After receiving it, you apply separately to IRCC (the federal immigration department) for permanent residence, with its own processing time, fees and background checks.
Quick questions
The basics people ask when they first hear about the PSTQ.
Is the PSTQ the same as Express Entry?
No. The PSTQ is Quebec's provincial selection program. After a CSQ, you still apply to IRCC for permanent residence through a separate federal process.
Does a high score guarantee an invitation?
No. Higher scores improve ranking in Arrima, but invitations depend on each round's criteria and who else is in the pool.