Tax Holiday for Foreign Researchers
Montréal, QC, Canada
Tax holiday for foreign researcher salaries in Quebec
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|noCondition
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Tax Credits
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
grant_single|grantors
- Gouvernement du Québec
- Ministère de l'économie, de l'innovation et de l'énergie du Québec (MEIE)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
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.
grant_single_labels|projects
The grant aims to facilitate the recruitment and retention of foreign researchers for scientific research and experimental development projects in Quebec. The eligible projects and activities focus on innovation and scientific advancement facilitated by individuals with specialized expertise.
- Conducting scientific research and experimental development (RS-DE) in the fields of pure or applied sciences.
- Developing and innovating new materials, products, processes, or technologies.
- Valuing research and development results through commercialization, technology transfer, and innovation management.
- Engaging in activities that include the commercialization and marketing of RS-DE project results.
- Managing and financing RS-DE activities for innovation-driven enterprises.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$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
$150,000
Recruitment of foreign researcher for AI-driven healthcare solutions development
$135,000
Hiring an international researcher to enhance renewable energy storage systems
grant_single_labels|admissibility
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.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
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.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
This grant is available to companies that are based in a specific geographical area as specified by the funding body. Companies must be situated in Québec to be eligible for this grant.
- Companies located in Québec.
grant_single_labels|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
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for the Foreign Researcher Certificate grant:
- Step 1: Review Guidelines
- Familiarize yourself with the 'Guide de renseignements généraux' to understand the grant's requirements.
- Step 2: Prepare Application Package
- Fill out the application form for the Foreign Researcher Certificate.
- Prepare the following documents:
- Detailed and signed curriculum vitae of the candidate.
- Copy of the employment contract.
- Copy of the company's certificate of incorporation (for first-time applicants).
- One of the following educational documents:
- Copy of diplomas from a Quebec university.
- Copies of post-secondary diplomas and course lists, plus a certified true copy of the last relevant diploma.
- Comparative evaluation of studies done outside Quebec.
- Step 3: Submit Application
- Email the completed application form and all required documents in one submission to conges.fiscaux@economie.gouv.qc.ca.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
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.
grant_single_labels|contact
conges.fiscaux@economie.gouv.qc.ca
514
Apply to this program
Facilitating Recruitment of Foreign Researchers in Quebec
The Fiscal Holiday for Foreign Researchers grant aims to streamline the recruitment process of foreign researchers in Quebec, making their net income more competitive and attractive. This initiative is part of broader efforts to bolster scientific research and experimental development (R&D) in the region.
Exploring the Benefits and Application Process of the Grant
The Fiscal Holiday for Foreign Researchers and Experts is an innovative measure by the Government of Quebec aimed at enhancing the province’s appeal as a research and development hub by easing the recruitment of international talent in scientific and experimental fields. The grant seeks to position Quebec as a leader in scientific advancement by attracting and retaining world-class researchers who can contribute significantly to local R&D initiatives. By offering fiscal incentives, such as income tax deductions, the program mitigates the costs associated with hiring foreign experts, thereby encouraging companies to undertake more ambitious projects that require specialized skills.
This program is tailored specifically to Quebec-based enterprises that are involved in scientific research and experimental development and are looking to hire foreign researchers. To ensure the recruitment of highly qualified candidates, the grant specifies that eligible researchers must possess a recognized postgraduate degree or equivalent knowledge in pure or applied sciences or related fields. This emphasis on high-level qualifications aligns with Quebec's strategic vision of fostering a knowledge-based economy.
The grant process involves submitting a detailed application that includes documentation such as the candidate’s signed resume and employment contract, proof of the company's establishment, and verified educational credentials. By simplifying and centralizing the application process, the initiative reduces administrative barriers for both employers and candidates and facilitates timely integration of foreign expertise into Quebec’s R&D ecosystem.
In addition to fostering local innovation, the Fiscal Holiday grant enhances the global competitiveness of Quebec-based companies by equipping them with the necessary human capital to tackle complex scientific challenges. The fiscal benefits are structured into phases over a five-year period and include substantial tax exemptions that decrease incrementally, thus providing sustained support over time and encouraging long-term collaboration between foreign experts and local entities.
Overall, this grant represents a strategic investment in Quebec’s future, leveraging global expertise to drive research excellence and economic growth. By overcoming existing talent shortages and incentivizing the participation of top-tier international researchers, the program not only enhances the competitiveness of Quebec’s research institutions but also contributes to the broader goals of technological innovation and economic resilience.
