Federal Skilled Worker/Federal Skilled Trades Program

By: Abrowanil on Oct 22, 2020 12:31 PM EST

I have been staying in Canada for more then one year and now I am planning to apply for Permanent Resident through Canada Express Entry. For the first 11 months I was staying and working in Ontario. I got a job from India through LMIA process. Presently I got a job and working in Montreal for last 3 months. My present employer is Quebec based and he sponsored a new closed work permit. He cancelled last closed work permit and issued new closed work permit in Montreal.

My question is whether I can apply for express entry as I don't want to go for province nomination. Whether my stay in Quebec doesn't allow me to apply for express entry. Whether my new job will give me 50 points as we get for LMIA.

Reply to this message

By: Avareed on Dec 03, 2025 07:57 AM EST

## Can You Qualify for Canada Express Entry While Living in Quebec?

### Basic Rule

* Express Entry is the federal immigration system for skilled workers.
* Quebec does **not** use Express Entry to nominate immigrants; the province has its **own skilled worker selection system**.
* This means that if you plan to **settle in Quebec**, Express Entry is generally **not the correct path**.

### If You Live in Quebec but Want to Use Express Entry

* You can submit an Express Entry profile **only if your intended place of residence is outside Quebec**.
* Your current job and Canadian work experience in Quebec **can count** toward eligibility criteria.
* By applying this way, you are effectively declaring your intention to move out of Quebec once you become a permanent resident, which you must be prepared to do.

### What This Means in Practice

* If you want to **stay in Quebec permanently** → You should use Quebec’s own immigration system.
* If you are **willing to relocate to another province** → You can use Express Entry while living in Quebec now.
* Having a job in Quebec does **not automatically disqualify** you, but your intention to live elsewhere must be genuine.

### Verdict

* Living and working in Quebec does **not automatically prevent** Express Entry eligibility.
* However, you must intend to move to another province; if your goal is to remain in Quebec long-term, Express Entry will not work, and you should follow Quebec’s specific immigration programs.

Reply to this message