Arrima Quebec 2026: how the scoring works | ImmigraCan

Quebec's Arrima system in 2026

The Arrima platform is at the heart of Quebec's selection process for skilled immigrants. In 2026, the system continues to evolve to attract talented professionals who contribute to the province's economic and social development. Understanding how the scoring system works is essential for candidates who want to immigrate to Quebec successfully.

What is the Arrima platform?

Arrima is the official portal Quebec uses to manage economic immigrant applications. It automates the process of evaluating and ranking candidates through a robust and transparent points system. Unlike other programs, Arrima lets you track your position in the selection queue in real time.

The main scoring criteria

The Arrima system evaluates candidates across several fundamental dimensions:

French language proficiency

Proficiency in French is the most crucial factor in the Arrima scoring system. In 2026, the evaluation continues to be based on internationally recognized proficiency tests. You earn points for your ability to communicate in French in professional and everyday contexts. Candidates with an advanced level (B2 or higher) receive significantly higher scores.

Education and professional training

Your academic background and professional certifications are rigorously evaluated. Higher education diplomas, especially those aligned with the needs of Quebec's labour market, receive maximum points. Technical and specialized credentials are also valued.

Work experience

Arrima considers both the quantity and quality of your experience. Relevant experience in your field, especially in sectors that are a priority for Quebec (technology, healthcare, construction), results in a higher score. Recent experience carries more weight than older experience.

Age and adaptability

Candidates between 18 and 35 years old generally receive maximum points in this category. Age is a factor that declines gradually, but experience and education can offset it. The system also takes into account your ability to adapt to the Quebec context.

Job offers

A validated job offer from a Quebec employer can significantly increase your score. In 2026, Quebec continues to value candidates who already have job commitments in hand, since it reduces the risk of economic instability.

How the scoring system works in practice

Arrima awards points on a scale that varies by criterion. The maximum possible score varies from year to year, but generally exceeds 900 points. Your final score determines your position in the ranking of candidates awaiting an invitation to apply.

The system is ranking-based: you don't need to reach an absolute minimum score. Instead, you compete with other candidates. In each selection round, Quebec invites the top-ranked candidates until it fills its available spots.

Strategies to maximize your score

Invest in French: Intensive French courses generally offer the best return in terms of points gained. Moving up one language level can mean dozens of additional points.

Professional qualification: If applicable, pursue additional certifications or diplomas recognized in Quebec. This is especially relevant if your prior education comes from outside Canada.

Relevant experience: Look to gain experience in priority sectors or expand your experience in roles more aligned with the Quebec labour market.

Job offer: A permanent, validated job offer is a game changer. Consider connecting with Quebec employers ahead of time.

Monitoring your application

One advantage of Arrima is transparency. You can track your ranking in the system and understand exactly how your points were calculated. This allows for strategic adjustments if needed.

If you're considering immigrating to Quebec and want to better understand how you fit into the program, take the eligibility quiz or check out the immigration programs available.

Conclusion

The Arrima scoring system in 2026 remains a fair and merit-based tool for selecting talent that will contribute to Quebec. Understanding its criteria and developing a strategy based on your strengths is essential to increasing your chances of success.

Also read: What is immigration? A complete guide to migration, immigrants, and emigration

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*This content is informational and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. ImmigraCan is not affiliated with the Government of Canada or IRCC. Always confirm official information at canada.ca and, for your specific case, consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or a lawyer.*