Quebec PEQ Applications Exceed Government Expectations
Quebec’s immigration landscape is changing rapidly as demand for permanent residency continues to grow. The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) received 12,364 applications during July and August 2026, exceeding the government’s original forecast of 8,000 to 12,000 applications for the entire four-month intake period.
The figures highlight the strong interest among international graduates and temporary foreign workers seeking permanent residence in Canada through Quebec’s immigration system.
The current PEQ intake opened on July 2, 2026, and is scheduled to close on October 31, 2026. Eligible applicants should review the official requirements and act promptly if they intend to apply.
PEQ Application Statistics: July and August 2026
According to information released by Quebec’s immigration authorities, applications were distributed across two categories:
| PEQ category | July 2026 | August 2026 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quebec Graduates | 6,861 | 1,077 | 7,938 |
| Temporary Foreign Workers | 3,626 | 800 | 4,426 |
| Total applications | 10,487 | 1,877 | 12,364 |
Quebec graduates accounted for approximately 64% of the applications received during these two months.
The numbers demonstrate significant demand for a pathway that allows eligible graduates and foreign workers to apply directly for permanent selection in Quebec. However, submitting an application does not guarantee approval or permanent residence. Applicants must satisfy the applicable eligibility criteria. [1][2]
What Happens to the PEQ After October 31, 2026?
The immediate priority for eligible candidates is the October 31 deadline. Quebec has not announced another intake period, and the province intends to phase out the PEQ by July 2028.
For candidates who do not qualify for the current intake, the Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ) is an important alternative to explore.
Under the PSTQ, prospective immigrants generally submit an expression of interest through Arrima, Quebec’s online immigration platform. Candidates are assessed under the program’s selection framework, and receiving an invitation is not guaranteed.
Quebec has also indicated that PSTQ invitations will be adjusted in light of PEQ application volumes, with invitations expected to resume from November 2026. The two programs therefore remain important considerations for people planning their Quebec immigration and permanent residency strategy. [1][3]
Can Temporary Foreign Workers Extend Their Work Permits?
Certain workers pursuing permanent selection through the PSTQ may qualify for a temporary federal measure that helps them continue working for their existing employer while their applications are assessed.
Eligible applicants may receive an employer-specific work permit for up to 12 months without a new LMIA, subject to the policy’s conditions. These include receiving a PSTQ invitation, submitting the required permanent-selection application, and meeting the applicable work permit and employment requirements.
The measure also allows eligible spouses or common-law partners included in the principal applicant’s permanent-selection application to apply for an open work permit.
Important: The temporary public policy is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2026. Eligibility depends on individual circumstances, and applicants should verify the current requirements with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). [4][5]
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Plan Your Canadian PR Journey
Immigration programs, eligibility rules, and application deadlines can be complicated. At ICC Immigration, we help individuals and families understand their options and plan their immigration journey according to their circumstances.
Our services include:
- Permanent Residency Applications: Guidance on Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other applicable immigration pathways.
- Work Permit and Study Permit Applications: Assistance with temporary residence options, extensions, and longer-term immigration planning.
- Family Sponsorship: Support for eligible applicants seeking to reunite with family members in Canada.
- Immigration Consultation and Application Guidance: Help understanding program criteria, documentation requirements, deadlines, and potential risks.
Every case is different, and no immigration pathway guarantees approval. Our goal is to help you identify suitable options and make informed decisions.
People who genuinely need refugee protection should seek appropriate legal advice about their circumstances. An asylum claim should never be used as a substitute for an economic immigration pathway when the person does not have a genuine protection claim.
Plan Your Immigration Future With Confidence
Quebec’s rising PEQ application numbers underline the importance of understanding current immigration opportunities before deadlines pass. Whether you are an international graduate, a temporary foreign worker, or someone exploring Canadian permanent residency, reviewing your eligibility early can help you prepare for the next steps.