Maple News reports that the Government of Quebec will officially shut down two of its most widely used immigration pathways—the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) streams for international graduates and temporary foreign workers. Both programs are set to end on November 19, 2025.
The PEQ was particularly popular among international students who completed their studies in Quebec and temporary foreign workers with local work experience. These individuals were able to apply for permanent selection under simplified criteria. However, as part of Quebec’s ongoing reforms to its immigration programs, these two streams have already been paused since October 31, 2024.
Earlier this year, Quebec had announced a temporary suspension of the streams until June 30, 2025. However, that pause has since been extended to November 30, 2025—just weeks before the complete shutdown.
In addition to the PEQ changes, all three of Quebec’s permanent immigration pilot programs will be discontinued as scheduled on January 1, 2026. These pilot programs include pathways for workers in food processing, orderlies in the health sector, and skilled professionals in artificial intelligence, information technologies, and visual effects.
Following the closure of these streams and pilot programs, the Province of Quebec will retain only one pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers: the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (PSTQ). This program, which is points-based and more selective, is likely to become the primary route for those seeking to settle in Quebec permanently.
Despite these closures, Quebec’s immigration ministry (MIFI) has confirmed that all applications already submitted under the affected streams will continue to be processed. Those wishing to add family members, such as spouses or dependent children, to existing applications will also still be able to do so.
These significant changes mark a shift in Quebec’s immigration strategy, likely reflecting broader policy goals aimed at managing integration, language acquisition, and labor market needs more closely.
Aspiring immigrants, international students, and temporary workers hopeful of settling in Quebec are encouraged to explore alternative immigration pathways or consider other provinces as potential destinations.
Stay with Maple News for continued updates on Quebec’s immigration reforms and their implications for newcomers.