Temporary suspension of PEQ in 2025

Attention, people in the province of Quebec who are applying for permanent residence through the PEQ worker stream! Effective June 5, 2025, the Quebec government has suspended the admission of applications under the Temporary Foreign Worker stream of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ). In addition, the suspension in effect as of October 31, 2024 for the Quebec Graduate stream has been extended until November 30, 2025.

This news is certainly discouraging, but there are alternatives and in this blog we are going to share them. Read below to the end. Let's get started.

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What should applicants focus on now?

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Since the PEQ pathway is temporarily closed, it is essential to look for alternatives to extend the work permit and remain in Quebec until the suspension ends or until participating in another alternative permanent residency program. Some options include:

• Review trade agreements: verify if there is an FTA with the United States FTA that would allow them to obtain an extension of their permit.
• Requesting a positive LMIA: if your employer is willing to arrange for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) positiveThis can help them apply for an extension of their work permit. 

Important! Please note that there are several LMIA restrictions in Quebec , however, they do not apply in all cases. For more details, it is recommended to consult your immigration advisor. 

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Alternatives to PEQ suspension

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Program for the selection of qualified workers - PSTQ

The PSTQ, Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés, ─to find an equivalence─ is very similar to the federal system's Express Entry, but it is the Quebec version. This program is for people who wish to immigrate to Quebec as workers, whether they are in this province or abroad, and is based on selection criteria, scores and priorities of the Quebec government.

The opening of this new program will be as early as July and in a progressive manner, so it is an alternative that you should be aware of. While there is not much information yet about the minimum scores required or the rounds, we do know that it will be open and that the provincial government will take into account those people already residing in Quebec. 

The PSTQ has general criteria for all participants, as well as specific criteria for its four available streams. You can consult the following website for more information or request a residency immigration appointment in Quebec to review in detail your action plan: PR Quebec appointments

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Express Entry and the Canadian Experience Class

Within the federal system, if they have at least one year of qualifying experience in Quebec, they may consider the Express Entry pathway, specifically the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

In addition, if they have a B2 level of French, they may also be eligible for the French-speaking category within the federal plan. The Express Entry window is still open, so keep your spirits up, as this alternative allows you to create your profile while residing in Quebec. But you have to act fast and focus your immigration profile to meet the requirements.

Once you receive the Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence, you will need to move to another province, such as Ontario, before submitting your final application. This is important to keep in mind, as Quebec does not participate in federal programs and initiatives. 

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Why consider Express Entry?

Since it is time to explore all available options to secure your future in Canada, Express Entry can be considered because it offers:

• Streamlined process: has faster processing times compared to some provincial programs.
• Fewer geographical restrictions: residence is not limited to a specific province, allowing for greater flexibility.
• Additional points for Canadian experience: candidates with Canadian work experience have advantages in the CRS scoring system.

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Find out if you are eligible for the federal Express Entry plan. 

At Immiland, we are here to support you in this process. We recommend you to know your level of competitiveness for the federal Express Entry plan and if your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score makes you eligible. 

Feel free to use our Express Entry calculator and evaluate your points for permanent residency under this pathway.

In conclusion, if you were considering the PEQ and are now looking for alternatives, the PSTQ (Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés) and Express Entry programs may be the best option to advance your immigration process. Stay tuned for official updates and evaluate which of the two best suits your profile.

If you need one of our consultants to evaluate your profile and help you outline a personalized plan to transition to permanent residency, schedule a consultation today.

For consultations in the province of Quebec, you can request an appointment with Carolina FeicanCOO & CICC Regulated Consultant with QC MIFI.

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I hope these alternatives will help you to expedite your immigration process. 

Thank you very much for reading us! Success in the process and see you soon!

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With love,

Immiland Canada