The Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) is an official document issued by the Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration in Quebec (MIFI)  and is specific to the province. It differs from other immigration documents issued by the federal government.

oreign nationals interested in attending a post-secondary institution in the province of Quebec have to complete an extra step compared to all other provinces and territories in Canada. If a foreign national wishes to study in Quebec for a period longer than 6 months, they must obtain a CAQ. Foreign nationals are only eligible to submit a study permit application after they have obtained a CAQ. But there is also some cases when a CAQ is not necessary. 

To apply for a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) for work, you generally need to follow these steps. Keep in mind that the specific requirements and application procedures may be subject to change, so it’s crucial to check the official website of the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) or consult with a qualified immigration professional for the most up-to-date information:

There are certain common errors when requesting information or referring to certain documentation required for the different stages of the migration process in the Study Pathway to Quebec. One of the most common mistakes is confusing the CAQ with the CSQ (Certificat de sélection du Québec).

As mentioned before, the CAQ is a certificate issued by the Quebec government that allows foreign nationals to study and work temporarily in the province of Quebec. It is a prerequisite for individuals who wish to study at a designated learning institution in Quebec. It is important to note this document does not grant permanent residency on its own.

On the other hand, a CSQ is a certificate issued by the Quebec government that indicates that the holder has been selected for permanent residency in Quebec. In other words, it signifies that the applicant meets the criteria set by the province to become a permanent resident of Quebec. After obtaining a CSQ, applicants can then apply for permanent residence with the Canadian federal government through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

The main difference between a CAQ and a CSQ is that the CAQ is for temporary stays in Quebec for study or work purposes, while the CSQ is for individuals seeking permanent residency in Quebec.

Since autumn of 2018, the new Quebec government uses the term “Certificat de sélection permanente” for the CSQ and “Certificat de sélection temporaire” for the CAQ, which can help newcomers avoid this confusion.

HGC’s International Student Program assists foreign nationals with every step of the process to become a Canadian international student. From selecting a school and program of study, to obtaining an acceptance letter, to applying for a CAQ and study permit, clients can expect one-on-one guidance. Every International Student Program client is paired with an Educational Counsellor who will help them discover their dream of living in Canada!