Express Entry vs Quebec Skilled Worker: which Canadian visa is right for you?
Two economic streams to Canadian PR: the federal Express Entry system, and Quebec's own Arrima-based Skilled Worker Program, which runs separately and on its own selection criteria.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) (Express Entry) | Quebec Skilled Worker Program (Arrima) (Quebec Skilled Worker) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Permanent / PR | Permanent / PR |
| Who it's for | Skilled workers who want permanent residence through one of Canada's three federal economic programs. | Skilled workers selected by Quebec under its own points system to settle permanently in the province. |
| Government cost | ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF) | ~CA$1,525 federal + ~CA$888 Quebec selection fee |
| Processing time | ~6 months after an invitation to apply | ~12-24 months (Quebec CSQ plus federal processing) |
| Length of stay | Permanent | Permanent |
| Where to apply | Online (create a profile, then apply after an invitation) | Submit an Arrima expression of interest to Quebec, then apply to IRCC |
| Work rights | Full work rights once PR is granted | Full work rights as a permanent resident |
| Points-tested | Yes | Yes |
| Pathway to PR | Express Entry is itself the route to permanent residence and, after meeting residency, to citizenship. | A Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) leads to federal permanent residence. |
Which is right for you?
Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) (Express Entry)
Skilled workers who want permanent residence through one of Canada's three federal economic programs.
Full Express Entry guide →Quebec Skilled Worker Program (Arrima) (Quebec Skilled Worker)
Skilled workers selected by Quebec under its own points system to settle permanently in the province.
Full Quebec Skilled Worker guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Express Entry or Quebec Skilled Worker?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) (Express Entry) is the lowest at ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, Express Entry or Quebec Skilled Worker?
Indicatively Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) (Express Entry) is the quickest at ~6 months after an invitation to apply. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
Do all of these lead to permanent residence?
Yes. Express Entry: Express Entry is itself the route to permanent residence and, after meeting residency, to citizenship. Quebec Skilled Worker: A Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) leads to federal permanent residence.
What's the main difference between Express Entry and Quebec Skilled Worker?
Express Entry (Economic Immigration System) (Express Entry) is for skilled workers who want permanent residence through one of Canada's three federal economic programs. Quebec Skilled Worker Program (Arrima) (Quebec Skilled Worker) is for skilled workers selected by Quebec under its own points system to settle permanently in the province.