Exchange in Quebec: how does the CAQ (Certificat dacceptation du Québec) work?

The CAQ is the essential first step in realizing your dream of studying in Quebec, but many Brazilian exchange students still have doubts about this fundamental document. This provincial certificate is mandatory for all international students who wish to study in the French-speaking province of Canada. Discover everything you need to know about the CAQ and how to obtain it with peace of mind and security.

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What is the CAQ and why you need it

O Certificate of Acceptance du Québec (CAQ) It is an official document issued by the Government of Quebec authorizing international students to remain in the province for educational purposes. Unlike other Canadian provinces, Quebec has the autonomy to select its international students through this additional process.

The CAQ acts as a provincial pre-approval that must be obtained before applying for a federal student visa. It's important to understand that the CAQ is not a substitute for a Canadian visa - both documents are required to study legally in Quebec.

Key features of the CAQ:

• Required document for courses over 6 months in Quebec
• Valid exclusively for the province of Quebec
• It must be renewed if the study period is extended
• Independent Canadian federal visa process
• Allows part-time work during studies (with certain conditions)

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When the CAQ is mandatory

The CAQ is necessary in a number of specific situations, and understanding these rules will prevent future problems in your exchange process.

Situations that require CAQ:

• Language courses: Programs with a duration of more than 6 months
• Technical programs: All courses at public and private colleges
• Undergraduate and graduate studies: Any university program
• Pathway programs: Preparatory courses for universities
• Student exchange: Exchange programs lasting more than 6 months

Important exceptions:

• Courses of up to 6 months (only eTA required)
• Research programs of up to 4 months
• Participation in specific educational events

For students interested in Learn a language abroad in Quebec, it is essential to verify the duration of the chosen program to determine the need for the CAQ.

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Documents required to apply for the CAQ

Proper documentation preparation is crucial to the success of your request. The Quebec government is rigorous in its analysis of documents, so each item must be complete and up to date.

Required basic documentation:

• Completed form: Available on the official website of the Quebec government
• Acceptance letter: From the Québec educational institution
• Passport: Copy of the main pages (valid for at least 6 months)
• Photographs: Two recent passport-type photos
• Financial proof: Demonstrating the ability to afford to study and live in Quebec
• Academic record: Certified translations of diplomas and certificates

Detailed financial documentation:

• Cost of studies: Proof of payment or letter from the institution
• Cost of living: Proof that you have enough to pay for your studies, housing, and food in the first year
• Transportation: Estimated value of the round trip airfare
• Income sources: Bank statements, income tax return, sponsorship letter

For programs in Public Colleges in Canada, it is important to demonstrate sufficient resources for the entire period of study.

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Step-by-step process for applying for the CAQ

The CAQ application process follows specific steps that must be strictly followed to avoid delays or refusals.

Step 1: Preparation of documentation (2-3 weeks)

Gather all necessary documents, provide certified translations, and organize financial proof. This phase is crucial to the success of the request.

Step 2: Complete the online form

Access the official portal of the Quebec government and fill out the form with accurate information. Any inconsistency may result in a delay or a negative one.

Step 3: Payment of fees

• Processing fee: CAD $132 (value 2025)
• Payment methods: International credit card or bank transfer

Step 4: Submission of documentation

Submit all scanned documents through the online portal. Make sure that all images are legible and in high quality.

Step 5: Monitoring the process

The average processing time is 4-6 weeks for complete requests. Regularly monitor the status through the online portal.

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Deadlines and processing time

Understanding the CAQ deadlines is critical to properly planning your trip to Quebec. Times may vary depending on the time of year and complexity of the request.

Typical processing schedule:

For unpending processes

• Request in advance: Start the process at least 3 months before the start of studies
• Full documentation: Send all documents at once
• Precise information: Fill out forms with accurate and consistent data
• Active monitoring: Respond quickly to any additional requests

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Relationship between CAQ and student visa

Many students are confused about the relationship between the CAQ and the Canadian federal visa. Both documents are required, but they serve different purposes and follow independent processes.

CAQ (Provincial):

• Authorization from the Government of Quebec
• Focus on integration into Québec society
• Assessment of financial and academic capacity
• Valid only for studies in Quebec

Student Visa (Federal):

• Authorization from the Canadian government
• Allows entry into Canadian territory
• Includes work permit (where applicable)
• Valid throughout Canadian territory

Required sequence: CAQ approved → Federal visa application → Entry to Canada

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Rights and obligations with the CAQ

Holding an approved CAQ confers specific rights, but it also implies responsibilities that must be fulfilled during the entire stay in Quebec.

Rights guaranteed by the CAQ:

• Living in Quebec: Throughout the approved study period
• Work part-time: Up to 24 hours a week during the term
• Full-time work: During official academic holidays
• Renewal: Possibility to extend your studies in Quebec
• Transition: Request other types of authorization after the studies

Important obligations:

• Maintain academic status: Adequate frequency and utilization
• Renew when necessary: Before the document expires
• Report changes: Changes to address, institution, or program
• Respect conditions: Do not exceed permitted work limits
• Follow local laws: Comply with provincial and federal regulations

For students in programs of private college in Canada with Co-op, it is essential to understand the specific working conditions allowed.

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Renewal and extension of the CAQ

Many students need to renew or extend their CAQs for a variety of reasons, from changing programs to extending their study period.

Situations that require renewal:

• Upcoming due date: Request must be made 30 days before the due date
• Program change: Change of course or institution
• Extension of studies: Longer programs than originally planned
• Level change: Language transition for graduation, for example

Renewal process:

The renewal process follows steps similar to the initial request, but may be faster due to the positive history in the system. It's critical not to let the CAQ win, as this could affect legal status in the country.

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Total costs involved in the process

In addition to the official CAQ rate, there are other costs that must be considered in total financial planning.

• CAQ rate: CAD $132
• Certified translations: R$ 150-300 per document
• Authentications: R$ 50-100 per document
• Photographs: R$ 30-50
• Couriers and pouches: R$ 100-200
• Additional documentation: Variable as needed

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Common mistakes that can cause negative

Avoiding common mistakes can be the difference between a quick approval and a negative approval that delays all your planning.

Main causes of denial:

• Incomplete documentation: Lack of mandatory documents
• Inconsistent information: Contradictory data between forms
• Insufficient financial capacity: Not demonstrating adequate resources
• Links with country of origin: Not proving intent to return
• Inadequate academic record: Insufficient qualifications for the program

How to avoid problems:

• Careful review: Check all the data before sending
• Extra documentation: Include more vouchers than the minimum required
• Explanatory letter: Justify academic and professional choices
• Professional advice: Consider expert help for complex cases

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CAQ for different program types

Each type of study program has specificities that influence the CAQ application process.

Language programs

For students who wish to perfect French or English in Quebec, the CAQ allows complete immersion in the province's bilingual culture. It's important to demonstrate clear motivation to study specifically in Quebec.

Technical and professional programs

Students interested in Pathway for university entry should demonstrate how the program in Quebec aligns with future academic objectives.

University programs

For undergraduate and graduate studies, the process tends to be more rigorous, requiring clear demonstration of academic qualification and financial capacity for the entire period of study.

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Be Easy

Na Be Easy, we understand that the CAQ process may seem complex, but our experience of more than a decade in the exchange market allows us to offer specialized guidance for each stage. Our team is deeply knowledgeable about the specifics of the Quebec system and can help you prepare a complete and well-structured request. Don't let red tape stop you from having the unique experience of studying in Quebec. Contact us today and make your dream of studying in Canada's most charming province a reality!

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