Introduction

Moving alone from another country to Quebec in Canada can be quite a daunting decision; packing up and figuring out how to go about moving to Quebec with your family is another ballgame in itself. Lots of questions are in the forefront of your mind relating to sponsorship, fees, processing times, etc for the family. 

We shall try to be your friendly guide in navigating this expansive process (while keeping up your spirits!), as you prepare to start your new life!  

If you are relocating to Quebec with a work permit/study permit-

So, your hard work has paid off! You finally received an offer to work/study in Quebec, and are now in the process of figuring out how to move your family with you. 

Firstly, before you go further, it’s important to know the conditions of your temporary work visa and the type of job you will hold in the TEER category of Quebec. You would also need to to have the Quebec Selection Certificate ( CSQ ). ( blog link)

  • To obtain a work permit for your spouse/common in law partner- You can file their work permit in the same application as yours with their relevant information. The same holds true if you are an international student hoping to get a work permit for your partner. It’s preferable to include their details in your study permit application.

Note: Since January 30,2023 – the family members of temporary workers in high-wage streams are eligible for an open work permit, regardless of the TEER category of the main applicant.

If in case your spouse isn’t eligible for a work permit, they can also come in as a student. 

  • To obtain authorization for your child’s education- This depends on what age they are coming into Quebec. Generally starting from elementary school, your children would need to obtain an appropriate CAQ ( Quebec Acceptance Certificate ) and a work permit.  

There are always new updates and policies that you need to be aware of to make the best decision. For detailed information, visit here for temporary workers and here for international students.

How to sponsor your family?

Quebec sponsorship requirements for families or also known as family reunification process is for applicants who hold a Permanent resident or Canadian citizenship. If your plan is moving your family to Quebec by this route, you must- 

  • Firstly, verify your eligibility to sponsor your spouse/common in law partner or dependent children ( under 22 years old), understand your responsibilities and send in your application to IRCC. To be eligible to apply, you must be over 18 years of age, have the financial capacity and be able to reside with your family in Quebec among other things. For details and to send in your application, go here. 
  • In Quebec, you need to also submit an undertaking application when IRCC deems that you are eligible to sponsor your family member(s). This is an important step in Quebec’s sponsorship requirements to reunite with your family. 
  • If your undertaking is approved, then you’ll receive the Quebec Selection Certificate ( CSQ). A copy of the CSQ will also be sent to IRCC so that they can complete your family sponsorship application. 

Conclusion

Moving to Quebec with your family can be quite exciting, especially for your children as it’s a chance for them to develop new experiences from a young age. At the same time, it’s a challenging time where important life decisions have to be taken carefully. 

Hopefully we were of some help in your search to relocate to this enchanting province! 

For more information on how to successfully integrate into your new life in Canada, take a look at some of our other helpful resources.