The Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) is an official document issued by the Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration (MIFI) in Quebec. It is a prerequisite for foreign nationals who intend to study or work temporarily in the province of Quebec.

Key Update:

Starting from March 2023, printed copies of the CAQ for studies will no longer be provided. Instead, you will receive an Attestation of issuance for your CAQ, which will be digitally deposited into your online file.

CAQ vs. CSQ

• CAQ: For temporary stays in Quebec for study or work.
• CSQ (Certificat de sélection du Québec): For permanent residency in Quebec.

Apply for a CAQ as an International Student

Foreign nationals planning to study in Quebec for more than six months must obtain a CAQ before applying for a study permit. Here are the steps:

1. Letter of Acceptance: Obtain an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Quebec.
2. CAQ Documents: Determine the required documents based on your personal situation and country of citizenship. Check the Immigration Quebec website for specific requirements.
3. CAQ Application: Complete the application using the Immigration Quebec web portal. Pay the application fee, print the application, sign it, and mail it to the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Diversité et de l’Inclusion (MIDI). Original signatures are required.
4. After Receiving CAQ: Apply for a study permit from Canada’s federal government. Ensure you have sufficient time to receive both the CAQ and the study permit before your program starts.

International Students Requirements for CAQ

To obtain a CAQ for studies, you must:

• Possess an acceptance letter from a DLI in Quebec.
• Pay the application fees.
• Commit to making studies your principal activity.
• Have health and hospitalization insurance for your stay.
• Demonstrate sufficient financial support for tuition and living expenses (some exemptions apply).

Fees for Temporary Selection for Studies (Effective January 1, 2024)

• Foreign student: $128
• Fees must be paid in full, in Canadian dollars, and are non-refundable.

Apply for a CAQ as a Temporary Worker

To apply for a CAQ for work, follow these steps:

1. Employer’s Role: Your Quebec employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) approval from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
2. Job Offer: Receive a valid job offer from a Quebec employer.
3. Submit Application: Apply for the CAQ for work with the required documents.
4. Required Documents: Include passport, job offer letter, proof of qualifications and work experience, proof of financial capacity, and any other specified documents.
5. Application Form: Complete the CAQ for work application form on the MIFI website.
6. Application Fee: Pay the required fee of $222 (effective January 1, 2024).
7. Wait for Processing: Processing times vary, so apply well in advance.
8. Decision Notification: If approved, receive your CAQ for work.
9. Apply for a Work Permit: After obtaining the CAQ, apply for a work permit from IRCC.

Payment Methods for CAQ Application Fees

• Accepted: Credit card, Canada Post money order, bank draft from a Canadian bank, certified cheque from a Canadian bank, cheque issued by a stockbroker, cheque from a Canadian company.
• Not accepted: Cash, personal cheques, traveler’s cheques.

Understanding CAQ and CSQ

The CAQ is for temporary stays for study or work, while the CSQ indicates selection for permanent residency in Quebec. The CAQ does not grant permanent residency, but the CSQ does, allowing the holder to apply for permanent residence with IRCC.

Since autumn 2018, the Quebec government has referred to the CSQ as the “Certificat de sélection permanente” and the CAQ as the “Certificat de sélection temporaire” to help avoid confusion.