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Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers - QC - Canada

Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers

Last Update: July 22, 2025
QC, Canada
Tax holiday for foreign researcher salaries in Quebec

At a glance

Eligible Funding
  • No Condition
Timeline
  • Unspecified
Financing Type
Tax Credits
Eligible Industries
  • Professional, scientific and technical services
Program status
Open

Overview

Attract highly skilled foreign researchers to work on SR&ED projects in Quebec by offering them a tax holiday ranging from 100% coverage of their taxable earnings in the first two years to 25% coverage in the fifth year.

Financing terms and conditions

The Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers provides a series of tax exemptions aimed at making Quebec an attractive destination for international researchers. The following details outline the exemption rates over a specified employment period.

  • 100% Quebec provincial income tax exemption for the first 24 months of employment.
  • 75% tax exemption for months 25 to 36.
  • 50% tax exemption for months 37 to 48.
  • 25% tax exemption for months 49 to 60.

Activities funded

This grant facilitates the recruitment of foreign researchers and experts to enhance Quebec's scientific research and experimental development initiatives. The eligible projects focus on research and development activities and technology valorization.

  • Scientific research and experimental development (RS-DE) by hiring foreign researchers with expertise in pure or applied sciences.
  • Valorization of RS-DE results by involving foreign experts in innovation management, commercialization, technology transfer, and funding activities.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 150,000
Recruitment of foreign researcher for AI-driven healthcare solutions development
$ 176,250
Recruit a foreign expert to develop cybersecurity measures for fintech solutions
$ 112,500
Recruitment of a foreign researcher for circular economy project on waste management
$ 161,250
Bring foreign scientist to improve bioplastics through microbial engineering
$ 135,000
Employing an international researcher to study urban heat islands
$ 135,000
Hiring an international researcher to enhance renewable energy storage systems

Eligibility

An enterprise must fulfill several criteria to be eligible for this grant.

  • The company must be located in Quebec.
  • The company must engage in scientific research and experimental development (RS-DE).
  • The company must have signed an employment contract with a foreign researcher.

Who is eligible?

Foreign researchers specializing in pure or applied sciences, or a related field, who hold a recognized graduate degree in Quebec or possess equivalent knowledge and skills, are eligible for this grant. Companies in Quebec that are actively engaged in scientific research and experimental development can apply for the certificate on behalf of the foreign researcher.


Eligible geographic areas

This grant is specifically available to companies located in Quebec. The program aims to facilitate the recruitment of foreign researchers by providing tax benefits.

  • Companies located in Quebec, Canada.

Selection criteria

There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The criteria are as follows:

  • Evaluation based on the research expertise of the foreign researcher
  • Evaluation of the relevance of the research to the project
  • Evaluation of the potential impact of the research on innovation
  • Selection based on the qualifications and experience of the researcher
  • Selection based on the potential contributions to the project

How to apply

1

Review the documents

Consult the General Information Guide.
2

Composition of the application file

  • Download and complete the application form.
  • Prepare the detailed and signed curriculum vitae of the candidate.
  • Include a copy of the signed employment contract.
  • Add a copy of the certificate of incorporation of the company (if first application).
  • Provide a copy of relevant diplomas or a comparative evaluation of studies.
3

Transmission of the request

Send the application form and the required documents by email to conges.fiscaux@economie.gouv.qc.ca in a single submission.

Additional information

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

  • The certificate for a foreign researcher or expert is issued only once for the entire eligible period.
  • The researcher exempts a graduated reduction in provincial tax: 100% for the first 24 months, 75% for months 25-36, 50% for months 37-48, and 25% for months 49-60.
  • The company must inform the Ministry of any relevant changes affecting eligibility during the tax exemption period.
  • Copies of all diplomas must be translated into French or English if originally in another language.
  • For researchers with foreign qualifications, a comparative evaluation of studies is sometimes necessary, conducted by the Immigration, Francization and Integration Ministry (MIFI).
  • Renewal of the certificate for an expert is required annually, and no reminders will be issued by the Ministry.

Documents and links

Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers

Contacts

conges.fiscaux@economie.gouv.qc.ca
QC, Canada
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers Program

Here are answers to the most common questions about the Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.

What is the Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers?

How much funding can be received?

What expenses are eligible under Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers?

What is the deadline to apply?

Is the Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers a grant, loan, or tax credit?

Who are the financial supporters of the Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers?

Who is eligible for the Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers program?

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Where is the Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers available?

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