Obtaining the A73 work permit in Quebec: A complete guide for CSQ holders

In a complex immigration landscape, Canada's A73 work permit is emerging as a valuable avenue for holders of a Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ), offering a unique exemption from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Designed specifically for individuals selected by Quebec, this closed work permit, linked to a specific employer, facilitates integration into the Canadian labor market for those awaiting permanent residency. Through this article, we explore the nuances of the A73 permit, detailing its rigorous eligibility criteria, the application process, and how it serves as a bridge between immigration ambition and actual entry into the Quebec workforce. Focusing on the permit's importance to Quebec's economic development and the successful integration of skilled immigrants, we offer an in-depth look at the A73 permit's significant impact on applicants and the Canadian labor market.

What is an A73 work permit in Canada?

The A73 work permit in Canada, while representing a specific exemption from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMI) for holders of a Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ), is characterized as a closed work permit. This means that the permit is tied to a specific employer, unlike an open work permit which would allow the holder to work for any employer in Canada. Individuals holding a CSQ, residing in Quebec and being the principal applicants in an application for permanent residence, benefit from the possibility of working in Canada without their employer having to obtain an LMIA thanks to this permit. This exemption, identified by the code A73, is designed to simplify access to the Canadian labor market for qualified candidates selected by Quebec, in recognition of the province's autonomy in immigration matters. The CSQ is awarded to candidates who meet the requirements of Quebec's immigration programs, and the A73 work permit is an additional step to facilitate their integration by allowing legal employment in Canada while their application for permanent residence is being processed. As a closed work permit, the A73 guarantees that the holder will work for the employer specifically approved as part of their application, thus contributing to the targeted and successful integration of skilled immigrants into Quebec society and the job market.

Who is eligible to apply for an A73 work permit?

To be eligible to apply for an A73 work permit in Canada, an individual must meet several specific criteria, aligned with Quebec and federal immigration policies. Here are the main eligibility requirements for this type of permit:

1. Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ): Applicants must hold a valid CSQ issued by the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI) du Québec. This certificate is proof that Quebec has selected the individual for immigration based on criteria such as skills, work experience and language proficiency.
2. Principal Applicant: The individual must be the principal applicant on an application for permanent residence that is being processed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). They must provide proof that they are the principal applicant.
3. Specific programs: The CSQ must be issued under a specific program or pilot program for Quebec. For applicants under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program, the CSQ must indicate "Category: Skilled Worker". It may contain no code or the IQ code. For other categories of applicants, the CSQ must include a code specific to section 9 of the CSQ, and the list of acceptable codes is detailed in the official instructions.
4. Exemption from LMIA: The A73 work permit offers an exemption from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which means that the employer is not required to prove that no Canadians or permanent residents have been found to fill the position offered to the foreign applicant.

These criteria ensure that the A73 work permit is available to skilled immigrants who have been selected by Quebec to contribute to its labour market and society, while awaiting approval for permanent residency. This process reflects Quebec's and Canada's commitment to facilitating the integration of skilled foreign workers and meeting the specific needs of the Quebec labor market.

How do I apply for an A73 work permit?

To apply for an A73 work permit in Canada, candidates must follow a series of structured steps to ensure that their application is complete and compliant with the requirements of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Quebec's Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI). Here's a step-by-step guide to submitting an A73 work permit application, including the additional step concerning the employer:

1. Obtain a Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ ): Make sure you have a valid CSQ issued by the MIFI. This document confirms that you have been selected by Quebec for immigration.
2. Check your eligibility: Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for the A73 work permit, including being the principal applicant on a current application for permanent residence and having a CSQ specific to certain categories of skilled workers or pilot programs.
3. Document preparation: Gather all required documents, including your CSQ, proof that you are the principal applicant on a permanent residence application, and any other necessary documentation specified by IRCC for the A73 work permit type.
4. Creation of the job offer by the employer: The employer must create a job offer in the IRCC employer portal and pay the associated compliance fees. It is crucial to clearly indicate the A73 EIMT exemption code in the job offer to link the offer to the specific A73 work permit application.
5. Completing the application form: Download and accurately complete the application form for a work permit outside Canada (IMM 1295) available on the IRCC website. Be sure to clearly indicate that you are applying for an A73 work permit by quoting the EIMT exemption code A73.
6. Fee payment: Pay the applicable processing fee for your work permit application. Fees can be paid online at IRCC.
7. Submitting your application: You can submit your application online or on paper, whichever you prefer. For online submission, create an account or log in to your existing account on the IRCC website to upload your forms and supporting documents.
8. Wait for the decision: Once you have submitted your application, wait for IRCC's decision. You may be asked to provide additional information or undergo a medical examination. IRCC will inform you of the decision regarding your A73 work permit application.

How long is an A73 work permit valid?

The validity period of an A73 work permit in Canada is generally aligned with the duration of the job offer provided by the employer, up to a maximum of two years. However, it can be influenced by a number of factors, including the expiry date of the applicant's passport, the specificity of the immigration program under which the Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ) was issued, and specific conditions imposed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration du Québec.

It is important to note that the A73 work permit is issued under specific circumstances, allowing CSQ holders already residing in Quebec to work while they await approval of their application for permanent residence. This specific permit facilitates the integration of skilled workers by meeting both the needs of the Quebec labor market and the province's immigration objectives.

Holders of an A73 work permit should pay close attention to the validity dates of their permits to ensure that they maintain their legal status in Canada. If an extension is required, applicants should start the renewal process well in advance of the expiry of their current permit, providing the necessary supporting documents and, if applicable, a new valid job offer.

Conclusion

In short, the A73 work permit is a key pillar in the journey of skilled immigrants to Quebec, marking a crucial step in their economic and social integration into Canada. Through a detailed exploration of its eligibility requirements, the application process, and its pivotal role in linking immigration ambitions to professional integration, this article highlights the importance of the A73 permit. Designed to simplify access to the job market for those already chosen by Quebec, the A73 permit not only facilitates the transition to permanent residency, but also reinforces Quebec's autonomy in immigration matters. It underscores Canada's and Quebec's commitment to welcoming and integrating foreign talent, thereby contributing to a dynamic and diverse labour market. In conclusion, the A73 work permit embodies a valuable opportunity for CSQ holders, offering a secure and legal path to employment in Canada, while awaiting finalization of their permanent residency process, reinforcing the interconnection between immigration policies and the needs of the Quebec labor market.

**Please note that the information presented in this article is subject to change and is provided for reference purposes only; it should not be construed as legal advice. For accurate and personalized immigration advice, we strongly recommend that you consult a qualified lawyer or immigration consultant.