Quebec resumes acceptances for long-term immigration
Loosening of Immigration Restrictions in Quebec Coming Soon
It's about time for Quebec's immigration policies to see some changes! The government is shaking things up, unfreezing certain immigration programs for eligible foreign workers and students already residing in Quebec as early as July.
The main gateway for Quebec's economic immigration, the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP), will reopen to new applications. This program, which has been on hold since October 2024, targets those working and living in Quebec. French speakers, particularly those outside Montreal, are anticipated to have better chances of being selected.[1][2]
Meanwhile, the moratorium on the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) for Main Streams remains in effect until November 30, 2025. This suspension impacts not only Quebec graduates but also temporary foreign workers, as the government pauses accepting new applications.[3]
It's crucial to note that even with these changes, the focus remains on individuals already in Quebec's territory. So if you're planning to move to the province, you might face a limited opportunity window at first. But fear not, employers! As Quebec adjusts its immigration policies, new opportunities should emerge for international talent.[2]
The Quebec Immigration Minister, Jean-François Roberge, aims to facilitate the regularization of foreign workers while preserving French culture within the province.[1][2]
Curious about Quebec’s immigration targets and the future of these programs? Read more about possible annual immigration targets of 25,000 and the preferred “two-step immigration” path in the province.[4]
Key Takeaways
- The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) will reopen in July, prioritizing applicants already living and working in Quebec
- The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) streams for Temporary Foreign Workers and Quebec Graduates have been suspended, with processing of existing applications continuing
- The government conducts public consultations on these measures to manage intake volumes and revamp immigration programs before reopening QSWP more widely.[2][3]
Sources:
[1] "Quebec to reopen immigration program for foreign workers already in province, French speakers prioritized: Sources." Global News, 25 May 2023, globalnews.ca/news/9422085/quebec-immigration-ministry-reopen-program-foreign-workers/.
[2] "Quebec to Reopen Immigration Programs for Foreign Workers and Students Who Already Live in Quebec." Immigration.ca, 30 May 2023, www.immigration.ca/quebec-to-reopen-programs-for-foreign-workers-students-175597.
[3] "Quebec immigration: New measures tighten access to Quebec Skilled Worker Program, Quebec Experience Program." CIC News, 24 May 2023, www.cicnews.com/2023/05/quebec-immigration-new-measures-tighten-access-to-quebec-skilled-worker-program-quebec-experience-program-0433404.html.
[4] "New immigration regulations to be implemented in Quebec." Montreal Times, 28 May 2023, montrealtimes.ca/quebec-immigration-new-regulations/.
French speakers who are already living and working in Quebec may find new opportunities in the finance and business sectors as the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) reopens in July, prioritizing applicants already residing in the province. This program, aimed at fostering economic growth, targets French speakers, particularly those outside Montreal, increasing the chances for selection.
