What Is Arrima? – Quebec Immigration

Published on: January 15th, 2020
Last updated: January 30th, 2024

Quebec’s immigration system operates slightly differently than the rest of the country. In September 2018, Quebec introduced Arrima, an immigration portal for skilled workers. Read more about the Arrima Quebec portal.

 

With the introduction of Arrima Quebec, the province has attempted to simplify the application process and level the playing field for all foreign nationals interested in applying through the Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program (QSW).

What is Arrima?

Arrima stands as an extensive immigration platform created by the province of Quebec, Canada, with the primary aim of simplifying the application process for newcomers. Serving as the online hub for a variety of immigration programs, it provides applicants with a user-friendly interface to efficiently submit their documentation. The platform holds a crucial role in facilitating immigration through diverse programs. Specifically, the Arrima portal is intricately designed to oversee Quebec’s Expression of Interest (EOI) system, marking a shift from the previous first-come, first-served intake process.

Who is the Arrima portal for?

The Arrima Quebec portal is designed for individuals aged 18 and above who are interested in immigrating to Quebec through various immigration programs.

This platform plays a vital role in simplifying immigration processes, including the Regular Skilled Worker Program, the Québec Experience Program, and several pilot permanent immigration programs.

Furthermore, Arrima caters to students and International Student Program by allowing the electronic submission of documents. Its inclusive features encompass collective sponsorship of refugees abroad, Accompagnement Québec, the Employer Portal for employer-driven immigration, and the outil comparatif québécois des diplômes étrangers—a tool for evaluating foreign diplomas.

The platform also supports businesses by providing French learning services during paid hours and offering the option for a power of attorney, ensuring a seamless transition and integration into Quebec society. Overall, Arrima serves as a pivotal tool in Quebec’s commitment to attract and embrace individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Within the platform, you can register in a francization program. Explore the French course offerings and register for financial assistance.

The Arrima portal may also be used by Quebec businesses that wish to search for profiles that meet their labour needs.

How to Apply for the Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program Through ARRIMA

Expression of Interest

After creating an Arrima account, you can start filling out the expression of interest form by selecting “New File”. You should make sure that you have your required documents on hand, such as your diploma and language test results. 

You can stop and save the information at any time, but the expression of interest form must be completed within 90 days. Once you have submitted your expression of interest, it is valid for one year.

What Happens Next?

The Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) sorts through the expressions of interest and determines which ones best suit the current needs of the province’s labour market. Those best qualified will be issued invitations to apply.

From there, selected applicants have 60 days to submit an official immigration application.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on the criteria outlined in the selection grid

One of the main factors in the selection process is being able to demonstrate that you have a validated job offer. This will allow you to secure a Quebec Selection Certificate and Canadian permanent residence. 

Like the Express Entry system, applicants are awarded points for the criteria that they fulfill. 

The selection grid determines your eligibility for Quebec immigration. The following factors are taken into consideration to determine how easy it will be for you to integrate into Quebec society:

  • Education or professional training
  • Age
  • Work experience
  • Your language proficiency (French and English)
  • Previous visits and short-term stays in Quebec 
  • Validated job offer
  • Number of children who will be accompanying you
  • Your financial situation and your ability to support yourself and your family for the first three months after your arrival in Quebec
  • Relationships with Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Quebec
  • If you have a spouse accompanying you

If you have a spouse accompanying you, they will also be evaluated based on their age, education, and language proficiency and could potentially boost your score. 

Invitations to Apply

Invitations will be sent through the Arrima Quebec platform. 

The Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration prioritizes:

  • People who submitted an application for a Quebec Selection Certificate before August 2, 2018
  • People with a validated job offer from a Quebec employer

What are my chances of getting an invitation?

After receiving an invitation through the Arrima portal, you can submit your application for a Quebec Selection Certificate. If this application is successful, you can go on to apply for permanent residence at the federal level. 

As Quebec’s immigration system is being flooded with applications every day, your best chance of securing a Quebec Selection Certificate is by holding a validated job offer. This can open the door for you to attain residency in Quebec and eventually permanent residency at the federal level. 

Remember that with the introduction of the Arrima portal, it is now possible for anyone to submit an expression of interest at any time and still have a chance at successfully immigrating to the province of Quebec. Get started on your application process today!

 

If you would like more information about Arrima and your Quebec immigration options, please contact us.

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