A complete guide to construction immigration in Quebec

Introduction

Quebec's construction industry is a fast-growing sector, offering many opportunities for internationally skilled workers. However, accessing this market requires careful planning and understanding of regulatory requirements and immigration processes. This comprehensive guide takes you through the key steps to immigrating to and working in construction in Quebec.

1. Understanding the Quebec construction context

1.1 Importance of the sector

The construction sector is a pillar of Quebec's economy, contributing significantly to employment and economic growth. However, the province is facing a shortage of skilled labor in several trades, which opens the door to international workers.

1.2 Role of the Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ)

The Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ) is the regulatory body for Quebec's construction industry. It enforces the laws, regulations and collective agreements governing the industry. 

Here are the main responsibilities and functions of the CCQ:

1.2.1 Skill card management

• The CCQ issues competency cards to qualified workers, allowing them to practice their trade on regulated construction sites in Quebec.
• It ensures that only workers with the requisite qualifications have access to the sector's various trades and occupations.
• Skill cards distinguish the level of qualification: theapprentice works under supervision to gain experience, while the journeyman is qualified to work independently and supervise apprentices.

1.2.2 Application of collective bargaining agreements

• The CCQ administers sectoral collective agreements, which define working conditions, wages and benefits for employers and workers.
• It acts as a mediator in disputes between employers and employees.

1.2.3 Social security management

• The CCQ administers social plans for construction workers, including:some text
  • Health insurance plans.
  • Pension plans.
  • Paid vacations (vacations, public holidays).
• It ensures that employer contributions are properly collected and redistributed to beneficiaries.

1.2.4 Safety on construction sites

• In collaboration with the CNESST (Commission des normes, de l'équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail), the CCQ ensures that construction sites comply with safety standards.
• It raises awareness among workers and employers of the importance of maintaining safe working environments.

1.2.5. Training and skills recognition

• The CCQ promotes ongoing training for workers to keep their skills up to date with technological and regulatory developments.
• It contributes to the recognition of the professional qualifications of foreign-trained workers, facilitating their integration on Québec worksites.

1.2.6 Inspection and compliance

• The CCQ carries out inspections on construction sites to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including:some text
  • The presence of workers with the requisite credentials.
  • Respect for working conditions and wage standards.

2. Types of work permits

To enter the construction industry in Quebec, it's best to find a job before you start the immigration process. This job must be offered by an employer recognized by the CCQ and able to guarantee a minimum of 150 hours of work over a maximum period of three consecutive months. 

This requirement makes it possible to meet the Commission de la construction du Québec's (CCQ) criteria for obtaining competency cards, while ensuring rapid integration in line with Quebec labor market standards.

A guaranteed job also makes it easier to obtain a work permit in Canada, and is a key step towards starting your career in the construction industry.

2.1 Work permit with EIMT

The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA ) is an evaluation carried out by the Canadian government to confirm that a position cannot be filled by a local worker. For construction trades, a positive LMIA is often required.

2.2 International Experience Canada (IEC) work permits

International Experience Canada (IEC) work permits offer a unique opportunity for young people aged 18 to 35 from countries with which Canada has an agreement to live and work temporarily in Canada. These permits include three main categories: 

• Working Holidaysto explore the country while working; 
• Young ProfessionalsThe Young Professionals program enables young people to gain work experience related to their field of training; 
• Stage Coop International, for students wishing to do a work placement in Canada. C

These flexible and accessible programs facilitate cultural immersion and the acquisition of work experience in Quebec and the rest of Canada.

2.3 Open work permits

Visit open permits are rarer in the construction sector, but may apply in certain cases, such as to the spouses of skilled workers.

3. Recognition of qualifications and experience

3.1 Recognition of qualifications and experience

3.1.1 Preliminary analysis request 

Workers wishing to enter the construction industry must submit a Preliminary Analysis application using the forms available on the CCQ website. Please note that workers from France can benefit from simplified processing under theFrance-Quebec Agreement on the Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications.

Here are the steps for preliminary analysis:

1. Provide a comparative evaluation of diplomas by the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI) du Québec.
2. Submit a Request for preliminary analysis - Recognition of hours of work and training (international recruitment).
3. Submit one or more supporting work experience sheets, duly signed by both the company manager and the applicant. For self-employed workers, provide proof of work performed, such as invoices, contracts or any other relevant document.

3.1.2 Obtaining the certificate of competence issued by the CCQ

Upon receipt of a positive preliminary analysis response from the CCQ to issue a certificate of competency, you must, upon your arrival in Québec :

• Obtain a Social Insurance Number issued by Service Canada;
• Demonstrate successful completion of the "General health and safety on construction sites" course
• Fill in the form Application for registration or modification to the identification file and/or choice of union associationavailable on the CCQ website;
• Attach the employment guarantee of 150hours over a period of no more than three (3) consecutive months from the employer employing you in Quebec;
• Pay the $100 fee required to issue the certificate of competency 
• Depending on the equivalence obtained, take the qualification exams for companion cards.

3.2 Trade-specific requirements

It is important to note that the issuance of a certificate of competency is not guaranteed and is subjective to the evaluation of the Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ). The CCQ may also not issue you a journeyman certificate directly, even if you have significant experience abroad. 

If your file does not fully meet the required criteria, or if certain Quebec standards are not covered in your course, you may have to start your career as anapprentice. In this case, you'll need to accumulate hours of work on Quebec job sites to meet local requirements. 

For some trades, you may be required to take certain CCQ-supervised qualification exams to obtain journeyman status. Please note that the Commission de la Construction du Québec does not issue experience and training equivalencies for the crane operator trade.

Conclusion

Immigrating to Quebec to work in the construction industry is a rewarding opportunity, but it requires careful preparation. By following this guide and using specialized services like Talentech, you can maximize your chances of success. Take the time to plan your career path, validate your skills and prepare for a successful integration into one of Quebec's most dynamic industries.

For personalized support, contact us today!

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