Maple News reports that Québec is preparing to significantly increase its immigration targets in response to labour shortages that have only intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic.
At a recent virtual press conference, Québec’s Minister of Immigration, Nadine Girault, revealed that the province is working to make up for a shortfall of approximately 17,000 to 18,000 newcomers. Various scenarios are currently under review to close the gap caused by reduced immigration admissions during the pandemic.
This statement comes shortly after Québec’s Minister of Labour, Jean Boulet, emphasized the urgent need to accelerate the arrival of foreign workers. Addressing a business forum, Boulet described immigration as “essential” and confirmed the government is revisiting current regulations to streamline the hiring of international talent.
A particular focus is being placed on temporary immigration programs. Boulet disclosed that the government has reached preliminary agreements to raise the permitted quota for temporary foreign workers in businesses from the current 10% to 20%. He also noted that efforts are underway to simplify recruitment processes for temporary foreign labour.
Québec is expected to update its immigration plan—originally set to conclude in 2022—with revised figures likely to be published before year’s end. The province is currently in discussions with the federal government to align and enhance both temporary and permanent immigration pathways.
Under the Canada-Québec Accord, the province has significant autonomy in selecting economic immigrants, though final admissions remain under federal jurisdiction. Health and security screenings also continue to be managed by federal authorities.
The current Québec government had initially lowered immigration levels when it took office three years ago, arguing that smaller numbers would support better integration. However, this approach has since been widely criticized—particularly by the business community—which warns that limited immigration could hamper the province’s economic recovery.
Due to pandemic-related restrictions in 2020, Québec admitted just over 25,000 permanent residents—approximately half the number recorded in 2019. Looking ahead, Québec has set an immigration target of 43,000 to 44,500 newcomers for 2021. The bulk of new admissions, about 62%, are expected to come through skilled economic immigration programs.
As Québec recalibrates its immigration strategy, the move to increase thresholds signals a shift toward more proactive talent attraction and economic revitalization efforts.
Maple News will continue to monitor developments as the province finalizes its updated immigration framework.