Quebec Unveils Immigration Plan for 2026–2029: Key Changes and What They Mean

Quebec’s Immigration Minister, Jean-François Roberge, has announced proposed updates to the province’s immigration policies for the years 2026 to 2029. These changes will impact both temporary and permanent immigration pathways, with a strong focus on French language skills and better integration into Quebec society.

Key Immediate Changes

As of now, the following measures have been implemented:

• PEQ – Workers and Graduates pathways suspended until November 30, 2025.
• Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) to reopen in July 2025.
• Program for Refugees Abroad (Collective Sponsorship) remains suspended until December 31, 2027.
  
  

Proposed Immigration Directions for 2026–2029

The Quebec government has introduced new proposals, which include:

• Setting targets for temporary residents and gradually reducing their numbers.
• Focusing on current temporary residents already in Quebec for permanent residency selection.
• Requiring French language proficiency for temporary foreign workers to renew work permits.
• Launching a new permanent residency selection program in Fall 2025.
  
  

These proposals are open for public consultation until August 15, 2025, with a final plan expected by October 2025.

Minister's Remarks on Federal Cooperation

In a recent press conference, Minister Roberge pointed to the federal government’s role in rising temporary resident numbers. He urged Ottawa to reduce the number of temporary foreign workers from 400,000 to 200,000 before Quebec considers increasing its permanent residence intake.

Roberge emphasized that Quebec’s immigration should benefit those already living in the province—especially those with jobs, French skills, and ties to Quebec’s economy and culture. He also stressed that most newcomers should settle outside Montreal and Laval.

Future Permanent Residence Targets

Three scenarios for annual permanent residence admissions have been proposed:

• 25,000
• 35,000
• 45,000
  
  

A final decision will be based on public feedback and announced later this year.

What Happens to Ongoing Applications?

Applications submitted under the PEQ (Workers and Graduates) and the previous Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ) before the suspensions will still be processed.

Applicants can also continue to add family members to their applications.

Those who submitted profiles through Arrima before November 29, 2024 must update their information to be considered under the new PSTQ.

Recent Developments in Quebec Immigration

This year, Quebec plans to welcome between 48,500 and 51,500 newcomers, consistent with earlier targets. However, several major changes have taken place:

• The pause on PEQ – Graduates and suspension of Skilled Worker invitations mark a shift in Quebec’s approach.
• A country cap limits admissions to no more than 25% of selected immigrants from any one country.
• French language skills are now more important than ever, with 79–80% of permanent residents required to speak French at the time of arrival.
  
  

Quebec’s Stance on Temporary Residents

Unlike the federal government, Quebec had not previously set limits on temporary residents. However, the province did freeze Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) in August 2024, a policy now extended.

The federal government introduced a cap on temporary residents in October 2024, to manage rising pressure on housing and infrastructure. Quebec is now aligning more closely with this direction.

Conclusion

Quebec is reshaping its immigration policies to better manage population growth, prioritize integration, and protect the French language. With new programs and stricter requirements, the province is focusing on quality and long-term integration rather than volume. These proposals remain under public consultation until mid-August 2025, giving residents a chance to share their feedback.