Immigration setback in Quebec! Main permanent residency pathway for temporary workers and graduates closed

The Quebec government closed the main pathway to permanent residency (PR) in the province: the Québec Experience Program (PEQ). This momentous event occurred on November 6, 2025, thus affecting temporary foreign workers (TFWs) and graduates of international study programs, who are at risk of losing the opportunity to change their status if they do not act in time.

In today's blog, we address this immigration setback in Quebec, what it means for the future of those affected in the province and what they should do now. Read with me to the end and learn the ins and outs of the closure and the alternatives available. Let's get started!

‍

‍

A migratory pathway in Quebec is being closed

‍

For years, the PEQ was a road traveled by thousands of immigrants. Today, that route, clear, safe and unobstructed, has been closed.

This applies to programs that traditionally allowed TFWs and international graduates to obtain the PR directly after a period of work experience or study in Quebec. 

It should be remembered that the pilot programs are due to end in 2026. This whole situation generates doubts, and many affected people are now asking themselves: what to do, why these changes, what is the key to cope with them?

But don't worry, if you belong to any of these groups, know that all is not lost, there are migration options. What you should do is to think about a strategic review as soon as possible.

‍

‍

Why is this closure occurring?

‍

The Quebec government wants to have tighter control over who gets tenure and how profiles are matched to the province's specific linguistic and regional needs. Several reasons support this decision. Here I share some of them:

• The province is reviewing its strategy to ensure that new permanent residents meet the needs of the economy in terms of specific sectors and proficiency in French.

‍

• It is an effort to balance the influx of temporary residents with the permanency quotas allocated to the province, possibly by prioritizing other federal streams or programs tailored to provincial needs.

‍

• Although not specified, this closure could be linked to a broader review of the Quebec Experience Programs (PEQ) or the creation of new, more selective pathways.

‍

‍

The impact, the confusion and what follows

‍

What follows without the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) is less concern and more action. It is time to know the alternatives and how to rethink your steps. Now is the time to:

• Review the current status, i.e. verify the validity of your work permit. This allows to define if there is time to transition to permanent residency or if the work permit should be extended first.

‍

• Analyze the PSTQ. This program requires key steps for selection. Here I summarize them in four steps:

‍Step1: Verify eligibility for PSTQ programs.

Before initiating a Declaration of Interest in any of the four components(volets 1, 2, 3 or 4), it is essential to confirm that you meet the minimum requirements of the Program. Otherwise, the system will not allow you to open or complete the Statement of Interest.

Step 2: Fill in the Declaration of Interest (Arrima)

Create a profile and submit your intention to emigrate to Quebec on the Arrima platform. The system will assign you a score (by language, studies, etc.). It is recommended to pre-evaluate your score at a migration appointment or use MIFi's resources, this will help you to know how you can be more strategic.

Step 3: Wait for the Invitation to Apply (IAS)

When you receive it, review the Arrima profiles. If your score is high, you will be sent an Official Invitation.

Step 4: Obtain your Quebec Selection Certificate

Once invited, send all your documents (diplomas, French, etc.). If everything is correct, Quebec will grant you the certificate.

Step 5: Use the CSQ to apply for permanent residency with the federal government.

‍

• Evaluate the federal pathway: many profiles may be eligible for programs outside the Quebec provincial framework, such as Express Entry (if they meet the federal score and language requirements).

‍

Recommendations for success when applying for PR 

At Immiland Canada, we are convinced that the French-speaking category remains the viable option par excellence. While there are fundamental requirements to meet to be eligible, a B2 level in French (demonstrated in the TEF/TEC exams) can add up to points, and work experience acquired in Quebec counts towards the federal plan. 

The applicant can create his or her immigration profile from Quebec and receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) while there. Once received, he/she can decide whether to move to another province or return temporarily to his/her country before returning as a permanent resident.

Closing one entrance does not apply to all doors. The solution is a strategic readjustment that requires specialized knowledge in provincial immigration. Every day counts if your permanency plan has been affected.

The situation in the province requires a quick, precise and legally grounded reaction. 

Act now! Seek specialized advice on immigration to Quebec.

Our team of CICC regulated consultants for Quebec, led by Carolina Feican, is ready to evaluate your case and design a specific strategy for permanent residence. Schedule a consultation and avoid delays or denials of your application.

• Specialized consulting for Quebec. 

• Schedule an appointment with Carolina Feican(COO & Regulated Consultant CICC with QC MIF).

Thank you for reading. We look forward to seeing you in the next blog.

‍

With love,

‍

Immiland Canada