As of July 9, 2025, Quebec has officially reached its cap on the number of spousal and adult dependent sponsorship undertakings it will accept until June 25, 2026. This means residents of Quebec can no longer submit new applications to sponsor spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, or dependent children over 18 years of age for permanent residence under the Quebec immigration system.
This suspension stems from the provincial cap introduced on June 26, 2024, limiting family sponsorship applications to 13,000 over two years, with:
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10,400 spots allocated to spouses and adult dependent children, and
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2,600 for parents, grandparents, and other eligible relatives.
The 10,400 quota for spouses and adult children has now been filled, triggering an automatic moratorium on new applications in this category.
❗What’s Still Allowed Under Quebec Sponsorship?
Not all sponsorships are affected. The following sponsorship applications are still being accepted:
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Dependent children under 18 years of age
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Adult children with disabilities
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Parents, grandparents, and other eligible relatives (up to the remaining 2,600 quota)
Furthermore, dependents can still be added to existing applications that are already in process.
🛑 What Happens If You Apply Now?
Any new sponsorship application received by Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration for the affected categories will be returned unprocessed, and application fees will be refunded. This rule applies even if the application was sent just before the cap was officially hit.
🧭 Why Quebec’s Process Is Different
Unlike other provinces in Canada, Quebec has its own family sponsorship procedures. Applicants must receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) in addition to federal approval, and they must sign a Quebec-specific undertaking agreement. These unique requirements make the cap’s impact more pronounced, as Quebec controls both intake and approvals independently of the federal government.
📊 Why This Cap Matters
This cap may delay family reunification for thousands of Quebec residents. Spouses and partners who were planning to apply for sponsorship may now face a waiting period of up to a year before they can legally submit their application again.
This development also increases pressure on alternate pathways such as study permits, work permits, or immigration through Express Entry and PNPs to maintain legal status in Canada.
💡 What Are Your Options Now?
If you are affected by this sponsorship cap, you still have options. You may be able to:
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Apply for a work permit or study permit to legally remain in Canada
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Explore Permanent Residency (PR) pathways through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or pilot programs
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Sponsor your family member from another province if you relocate (note: genuine relocation is required)
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Wait until the moratorium lifts on June 25, 2026, and prepare your documents in advance
🛡️ Don’t Risk Your Future — Avoid Asylum-Based Strategies
Some may consider applying for asylum due to lack of options, but this can be risky and is not a guaranteed path to PR. Asylum claims can be denied, and may negatively impact future immigration applications.
🔍 How ICC Immigration Can Help
At ICC Immigration, we understand the frustration and urgency that comes with changing immigration rules. Our licensed immigration consultants and legal experts are here to help you find safe, effective alternatives to reunite with your loved ones or secure permanent residence in Canada.
Here’s how we support you:
✅ Permanent Residency Applications
We help you apply through Express Entry, PNPs, or family sponsorships where possible — ensuring your application is complete, compliant, and timely.
✅ Work & Study Permits
Looking for temporary options while you wait for sponsorship routes to reopen? We guide you through obtaining legal status via study permits or work permits, often a stepping stone to PR.
✅ Family Sponsorships (Outside Quebec)
If you are considering relocating outside Quebec to sponsor your family sooner, we will help assess your eligibility and ensure compliance with federal rules.
✅ Expert Legal Advice
Our team offers professional guidance tailored to Quebec-specific rules and national immigration policy, helping you avoid delays or rejections.