The CAQ (Certificat d'acceptation du Québec) and the CSQ (Certificat de sélection du Québec) are two types of document related to immigration to Quebec, a province of Canada. However, they have different purposes and are used in different contexts.
- CAQ (Certificat d'acceptation du Québec) This is a mandatory document for international students who wish to pursue their studies in Quebec. Before applying for a study permit from the Canadian federal government, an international student must first obtain a CAQ from Quebec's Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI). The CAQ confirms that the Quebec government accepts the student as an international student in the province.
- CSQ (Certificat de sélection du Québec) The CSQ is a step in the immigration process for those wishing to settle permanently in Quebec. The CSQ is issued by the MIFI to individuals and families who wish to immigrate to Quebec as permanent residents. Once you have obtained a CSQ, you can then apply to the Canadian federal government for permanent residency. The CSQ is not a permanent resident card, but it is a necessary step in obtaining this status if you wish to live in Quebec.
So, in short, the CAQ is for international students who want to study in Quebec, while the CSQ is for people who want to settle permanently in Quebec.
