Quebec’s immigration system is undergoing one of its most significant transformations in recent years. The provincial government has officially scrapped the Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ) — a popular pathway to permanent residency — and replaced it with a new system called the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ).
While officials say the reform will better align immigration with labour shortages, the move has sparked protests, criticism from employers, municipalities, and growing anxiety among temporary residents already living in the province.
Below is a clear breakdown of what’s changing, who is affected, and what it means for your future in Canada.
What Was the PEQ Program?
The PEQ program Quebec was designed as a fast-track pathway for international students and temporary foreign workers seeking permanent residency.
To qualify, applicants generally needed:
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Advanced French language proficiency
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At least two years of work experience in Quebec (in eligible occupations)
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Employment in specific sectors
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French proficiency from spouses (in some cases)
While selective, the PEQ was considered predictable and transparent. Applicants could assess their eligibility with relative certainty, making it one of the most trusted Quebec PR pathways.
Over time, however, the Quebec government tightened eligibility by reducing qualifying occupations — before abolishing the program entirely in late 2025.
What Is the New PSTQ System?
The replacement program — Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) — introduces a more flexible but less predictable selection model.
Key features include:
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Candidates must submit profiles via the Arrima online portal
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Invitations are issued periodically
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Selection is based on a points system tied to labour market priorities
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Criteria shift based on Quebec’s economic needs
For 2026, Quebec plans to admit about 29,000 economic immigrants, with most selected through PSTQ.
Priority Categories Under PSTQ
The government is prioritizing:
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Workers in health care, education, and construction
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Applicants living outside Montreal and Laval
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Individuals who studied in Quebec
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Candidates addressing regional labour shortages
Officials argue this approach supports regional development and reduces strain on housing and public services in major cities.
Why Is There Backlash?
Despite government assurances, opposition has been widespread.
1. “PEQ Orphans” Left in Limbo
Thousands who planned their immigration journey around PEQ suddenly lost their pathway. While previously submitted applications will still be processed, new applicants cannot apply.
Critics argue this disrupts lives of people already integrated into Quebec society.
2. Economic Concerns
Business groups warn the change could worsen labour shortages — especially in Montreal — where many temporary workers are based.
3. Municipal Opposition
Even regional municipalities — whom the reform aims to help — are pushing back, saying PEQ applicants are already settled and unlikely to strain services.
4. Protests Across Quebec
Demonstrations have taken place in multiple cities, reflecting frustration among students, workers, and advocacy groups.
Impact on Health-Care Workers
One of the biggest concerns involves temporary foreign workers in health care.
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Over 6,300 health-care workers hold temporary status
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About half are based in Montreal
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Many permits expire by end of 2026
Unions fear Quebec could lose critical staff, worsening hospital shortages.
The immigration minister has pledged to invite these workers through PSTQ and is negotiating with Ottawa to extend work permits in the interim.
Quebec vs. Ottawa: Who’s Responsible?
The situation has also triggered federal-provincial tensions.
Quebec blames Ottawa for work-permit renewal delays.
However, immigration lawyers point to provincial policies — including permit renewal restrictions in Montreal and Laval for certain wage levels — as contributing factors.
Under Canada’s immigration framework:
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Quebec selects economic immigrants
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Ottawa issues permanent residency and permits
Both levels must cooperate — making policy misalignment costly for applicants.
What This Means for Immigration Applicants
If you’re planning immigration through Quebec immigration programs, the landscape is now more competitive and less predictable.
You may face:
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Changing selection criteria
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Regional prioritization rules
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Occupation-based invitations
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Longer timelines
This makes professional guidance more important than ever when planning your Canada permanent residency journey.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
Navigating evolving immigration policies can be overwhelming — especially with major reforms like the end of PEQ. This is where ICC Immigration plays a crucial role in safeguarding your future.
Our team focuses on building stable, long-term immigration strategies tailored to your profile — helping you avoid uncertainty and choose the most reliable PR pathways in Canada.
Our Key Services
1. Permanent Residency Applications
We assist with Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other economic pathways, ensuring your application is accurate, complete, and optimized for success.
2. Work Permits & Study Permits
Whether you want to work or study in Canada, we help secure temporary status that can transition into permanent residency.
3. Family Sponsorships
Reuniting families is a cornerstone of Canadian immigration. We guide you through sponsorship programs to help your loved ones settle in Canada.
4. Professional Legal Guidance
Immigration laws change frequently. Our experts provide up-to-date legal advice so your case meets all regulatory requirements.
Instead of relying on uncertain or high-risk options, choosing structured immigration pathways offers stability, legal protection, and a clearer route to Permanent Residency in Canada.
Whether you’re already in Canada or planning your move, ICC Immigration supports you at every stage — from assessment to final approval.
Final Thoughts
The abolition of PEQ marks a major shift in Quebec immigration policy. While the PSTQ system aims to better match immigrants with labour shortages, the transition has created confusion and concern among workers, students, and employers alike.
If you’re affected by these changes — or exploring alternative pathways — now is the time to reassess your strategy and seek expert guidance.
With the right planning and professional support, your Canadian immigration goals can remain firmly within reach despite policy shifts.