Maple News reports that Quebec has updated its roster of occupations eligible for expedited Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) processing under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). The February 24, 2026 update reduces the list to 60 occupations across the province, down from 76.
To ease the transition, Quebec has introduced a 30-day grace period—from February 24 to March 26, 2026—for occupations that were previously eligible but are not on the updated list.
The roster is updated annually by Quebec and remains in effect until February 23, 2027.
New additions for 2026 include Specialists in surgery (NOC 31101), Electrical power line and cable workers (NOC 72203), and Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors (NOC 72404). The list covers a broad range of trades, health care professionals, and technical roles, with examples such as aircraft mechanics, carpenters, nurses, physicians, electricians, and bakers.
Notes: Some entries carry an asterisk indicating eligibility only under specific designations, and bolded occupations qualify for the two-week LMIA processing window under the Global Talent Stream (within the TFWP).
Impact and guidance: The reduced scope for expedited processing may affect employers relying on fast-tracked approvals, particularly in IT and engineering sectors that were previously covered. Employers and workers should review the official NOC designations to confirm eligibility and plan accordingly. Maple News will continue to monitor updates to Quebec’s LMIA rules.