Quebec Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge made a major announcement recently outlining the province's proposed immigration plan for four years starting in 2026. Quebec's immigration priorities undergo drastic revision with stricter language requirements and curtailment of immigration pathways and temporary resident numbers altogether, suddenly.

Top Highlights from Quebec’s Immigration Announcement

Minister Roberge unveiled proposed Quebec immigration plans for 2026-2029 with sweeping policy overhauls during a highly anticipated press conference on June 5, 2025. Newcomers will likely arrive and integrate into Quebec society in profoundly altered ways following this eagerly anticipated major update.

Immediate Policy Changes (Effective Immediately):

  1. PEQ - Workers Pathway is suspended until November 30, 2025.
  2. PEQ - Quebec Graduates (Diplômés) Pathway remains paused until November 30, 2025.
  3. Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) to reopen in July 2025.
  4. Program for Refugees Abroad (Collective Sponsorship) paused until December 31, 2027.

Table: Summary of Key Quebec Immigration Changes

Change Type Status Duration
PEQ – Workers Suspended Until Nov 30, 2025
PEQ – Quebec Graduates Suspended Until Nov 30, 2025
Skilled Worker Selection Program Reopening July 2025
Refugees Abroad Sponsorship Suspended Until Dec 31, 2027

What’s Planned for 2026 to 2029?

The Quebec immigration plan for 2026–2029 proposes the following key actions:

  1. Cap on temporary resident numbers to ensure sustainability.
  2. Priority for current temporary residents in Quebec to apply for permanent residency.
  3. French language proficiency will be mandatory for renewing work permits.
  4. A new permanent residency selection program will launch by Fall 2025.

Roberge Challenges Ottawa Over Temporary Foreign Workers

Minister Roberge addressed concerns about the surge in temporary residents in Quebec under the International Mobility Program (IMP). He urged the federal government to cut temporary foreign worker numbers in half—from 400,000 to 200,000—before Quebec increases its PR targets.

“Becoming a Quebecer is a privilege, not a right,” Roberge said, highlighting the need to protect Quebec’s language and culture.

Quebec’s Immigration Direction: Focus on French & Labour Integration

Quebec immigration will now emphasize:

  1. Candidates with strong French language skills.
  2. Those already working or studying in Quebec.
  3. Applicants are filling labour shortages, especially outside Montreal and Laval.

Potential Permanent Residence Admissions Targets

The plan outlines three potential PR admission targets per year:

Scenario Annual PR Admissions
Low 25,000
Medium 35,000
High 45,000

Public feedback will be accepted until August 15, 2025, and the final levels plan is expected in October 2025.

What Happens to Ongoing Applications?

Good news for applicants already in the system:

  1. Applications under the PEQ streams submitted before suspension will still be processed.
  2. Family members (spouses/dependents) can still be added to PEQ files.
  3. Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ) applications submitted before Nov 29, 2024, will be considered.
  4. Arrima profiles created before that date must be updated to qualify under PSTQ.

Quebec Responds to National Policy Shifts

Quebec’s approach comes amid national changes:

  1. In October 2024, the federal government introduced temporary resident limits to combat housing and affordability issues.
  2. Quebec also froze Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIs) in August 2024, a policy now extended.

Recent Trends in Quebec Immigration

  1. Quebec aims to welcome 48,500 to 51,500 new immigrants in 2025.
  2. Admissions through PEQ – Diplomes and SWSP have decreased significantly.
  3. A country cap limits no more than 25% of Skilled Worker applicants from one nation.
  4. French-speaking immigrants now form 79–80% of admitted PRs.

How Can Visa Solutions 4u Help?

Visa Solutions 4u is your trusted immigration partner if you're navigating Quebec's complex system. Here's how we support you:

  1. Personalized eligibility assessments for Quebec immigration.
  2. Guidance on updating or resubmitting Arrima profiles.
  3. Support with in-progress applications to ensure accuracy and compliance.
  4. French language resources to meet Quebec’s updated proficiency requirements.
  5. Timely updates and strategic advice aligned with Quebec’s evolving plans.

Let Visa Solutions 4u help you transition from temporary resident to permanent resident smoothly, efficiently, and confidently.

Conclusion: A Turning Point in Quebec Immigration Policy

Quebec takes a staunch stance on preserving linguistic heritage and cultural identity while slowly forging a somewhat more rigorous immigration policy. Quebec's immigration route is undergoing drastic changes with stricter rules and a glaringly obvious emphasis on societal cohesion now. Staying updated with professionals like Visa Solutions 4u has never been more crucial for those settling permanently in Quebec or simply studying there.