All about the Certificat d'Acceptation du Québec (CAQ)

The Certificat d'Acceptation du Québec (CAQ) is required to work or study in Quebec because of the unique immigration arrangement between Quebec and the rest of Canada. Quebec has a certain autonomy from the rest of Canada when it comes to immigration. That's why it set up the CAQ system to enable the provincial government to control the number and type of foreign workers and students coming to the province. The CAQ is used to verify that the foreign worker or student meets the conditions required by the province of Quebec.

What is the Certificat d'Acceptation du Québec (CAQ)?

The Certificat d'Acceptation du Québec (CAQ) is an essential document for individuals wishing to settle temporarily in Quebec to study or work. Issued by Quebec's Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI), the CAQ validates that the bearer has been officially accepted by the province to pursue studies or a professional activity.

Intended primarily for international students and temporary workers, the CAQ is the first step in the immigration process for non-Canadians wishing to reside in Quebec for a specified period. In addition to being a prerequisite for obtaining a study or work permit from the Canadian federal government, the CAQ is a testament to Quebec's commitment to welcoming talent and students from around the world, enriching its community with their diversity and skills.

How do you apply for a CAQ?

To obtain a Certificat d'Acceptation du Québec (CAQ), it's crucial to understand the process specific to each category. The Arrima platform plays an essential role in managing CAQ applications, adapting its approach depending on whether you're a student or a foreign worker.

CAQ application for students

1. Fill in the online application form for temporary study selection: Fill in the online form on the MIFI website.
2. ‍Creatingan account on Arrima: International students must first create their own account on Arrima to initiate their CAQ application.‍
3. Submit supporting documents: Upload required documents, such as proof of admission to a Quebec educational institution, proof of financial capacity, copies of passport, and transcripts.‍
4. Payment of fees: The CAQ application fee must be paid for the application to be processed.‍
5. Submission and tracking: Once payment has been made, submit your request and use Arrima to track its progress.

CAQ application for foreign workers

In the case of foreign workers, the employer in Quebec is responsible for filing the CAQ application via Arrima. Here's an outline of the process:

1. Arrima employer account: Employers must create a specific account on Arrima for companies.
2. Filing the application: The employer fills out the CAQ application, providing detailed information on the job offer and the foreign candidate, including the nature of the position and the worker's qualifications.
3. Submission of supporting documents: The employer must also upload the supporting documents needed to back up the foreign worker's application.‍
4. Payment of fees: The employer pays the fees for processing the CAQ application on behalf of the foreign worker.‍
5. Submission and follow-up: Employers can track the progress of their applications via their Arrima account.

What documents do I need to apply for a CAQ?

To ensure a successful application, it is essential to prepare and submit a complete file including all required documents. Here is an overview of the documents required to apply for a CAQ, tailored to each of these two main categories.

For international students

1. Proof of admission: Official letter of acceptance from a recognized Quebec educational institution.
2. Valid passport: A copy of the identification pages of your valid passport.
3. Proof of funds: Documents proving that you have sufficient financial means to cover your tuition fees, your stay in Quebec and your return travel costs.
4. Declaration, commitments and authorization form: The official "Declaration, commitments and authorization" form, correctly completed.

For foreign workers

1. Signed employment contract: An employment contract duly signed by you and your Quebec employer, specifying the terms and conditions of your employment.
2. Valid passport: A copy of the identification pages of your valid passport.
3. Up-to-date resume: An up-to-date CV detailing your educational background and professional experience, highlighting your skills in relation to the position offered.
4. Proof of professional qualifications: Any diploma, certificate or attestation demonstrating your professional qualifications and technical skills, relevant to the position in question, as well as transcripts.
5. Temporary selection application form: The official "Temporary Selection Application - Temporary Foreign Worker Program" form, correctly completed.
6. Work certificates: Certificates or letters from your previous employers, confirming your work experience relevant to the position you wish to fill in Quebec.
7. Previous authorizations to stay in Canada: If applicable, provide copies of your previous authorizations to stay in Canada, such as work permits, study permits or visitor records.

To guarantee the conformity of your CAQ application file, it is imperative that all documents submitted are in English or French. If your original documents are in another language, they must be accompanied by a professional translation, signed and authenticated by a professional translator.

‍Whatis the processing time for a CAQ application?

Processing times for Certificat d'Acceptation du Québec (CAQ) applications vary depending on the category under which the application is submitted. For international students wishing to study in Quebec, most temporary selection applications are processed within 25 working days. On the other hand, for foreign workers wishing to join the Quebec job market, CAQ applications usually take between 40 and 50 working days to process. These times are indicative and may fluctuate depending on the volume of applications received by the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI) du Québec, as well as the completeness and complexity of the files submitted. Applicants are advised to prepare their applications in advance to anticipate these processing times.

How much does a CAQ application cost?

For international students, the CAQ application fee is $128 CAD. This fee covers the processing of the application by the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI) du Québec, and must be paid when the application is submitted online via the Arrima platform, or by any other means specified by the MIFI.

As for foreign workers wishing to obtain a CAQ, the applicable fee is also $222 CAD. This fee is required for the evaluation of the CAQ application under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, and must be paid by the employer or applicant, as the case may be, at the time of application submission.

It is important to note that these amounts are subject to change, and it is advisable to consult the official MIFI website regularly or contact the ministry directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information on CAQ application fees. Preparing your application carefully and ensuring that you follow all the guidelines provided can facilitate your immigration process to Quebec.

In conclusion

The Certificat d'Acceptation du Québec (CAQ) is an essential prerequisite for international students and foreign workers wishing to immerse themselves in Quebec's unique environment. Thanks to its distinct immigration system, Quebec is sure to attract talents and minds that will contribute to the prosperity and diversity of its society. The CAQ process, while rigorous, is a testament to Quebec's commitment to welcoming and successfully integrating every newcomer.

**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.