Ever since Québec tightened its immigration programs a few years ago, many highly skilled foreign workers living in Québec have been looking into getting permanent residence (PR) under the Express Entry – Canadian Experience Class (EE CEC) category.
It is possible to apply for permanent residence under EE CEC only if the applicant intends to permanently settle down outside of Québec. If, however, the applicant does not want to leave la belle province, EE CEC is not an adequate option.
1. EE CEC is not open to applicants who want to settle down in Québec:
The Québec immigration system is unique to the rest of Canada and many applications require prior approval from the Québec government. This is particularly true when it comes to the PR, study permit and some work permit applications. On the other hand, the Express Entry system is handled by the federal government directly – Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This is one of the reasons why the EE CEC program is not open to PR candidates who want to establish themselves in Québec.
2. EE CEC applicants can submit their PR application while still residing in Québec:
Applicants applying under EE CEC must plan to live outside the province of Québec. The Express Entry application must be carefully prepared if the applicant resides in Québec at the time of filing the PR application. IRCC should be convinced that the applicant will leave the province once the PR application is approved. IRCC will oftentimes send a procedural fairness letter asking the applicant to explain their intent to move provinces. It is, however, always better to preempt such a letter and adequately address this question at the time of the PR application submission.
3. Proving the intent to reside outside of Québec:
IRCC may ask for proof of intent to live in another province. The way to approach this issue depends on the unique circumstances of each case. Proof of intent may include rental agreements, proof of home purchase, evidence of family and work ties, etc.
4. Leaving Québec once the PR application is approved:
The applicant should move provinces as soon as possible upon landing. Otherwise, the applicant may face issues if they wish to, for example, sponsor their parents, spouse or renew their permanent resident card.