| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| Temporary immigration targets are set for the first time, with a planned 13% reduction by 2029, by the Canadian province of Quebec. Permanent immigration may decrease by up to 50%, with three proposed scenarios under review. Public consultations begin, and new invitations under the PSTQ program start in July 2025. |
On June 6, 2025, Quebec’s Immigration Minister, Jean-François Roberge, unveiled the province’s proposed immigration orientations for the years 2026 to 2029. The proposal outlines key changes to both temporary and permanent immigration programs, aiming to balance economic needs with Quebec’s capacity for integration.
Quebec is an integral province of Canada that is famous for its different immigration programs, especially for French-speaking foreigners.
Temporary Immigration: A First-Ever Cap
For the first time, Quebec plans to set targets for temporary immigration, particularly for:
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
- International Student Program (ISP)
Proposed Reduction
| Year | Estimated Permit Holders | Change Compared to 2024 |
| 2029 | ~13% fewer | ↓ 13% |
The goal is to ease pressure on housing, services, and integration systems while still addressing regional labor shortages.
Permanent Immigration: 3 Scenarios Proposed
Quebec is proposing three possible scenarios to reduce permanent immigration:
| Scenario | Annual Immigrants | % Reduction (compared to 2019–2024 avg) |
| 1 | 25,000 | 50% |
| 2 | 35,000 | 30% |
| 3 | 45,000 | 10% |
Priority will be given to French-speaking immigrants already in Quebec who meet labor market needs.
Public Consultations Underway
The public is invited to give feedback on these orientations. The government will finalize its plan based on consultation outcomes.
New Skilled Worker Program (PSTQ) Invitations Start July 2025
A new program, Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ), will begin inviting applicants in July 2025.
Who Will Be Prioritized?
- Workers already in Quebec
- People who studied or worked in Quebec’s regions
- French speakers
- Skilled workers in high-demand occupations
- Individuals with exceptional talent
Temporary Suspensions Extended
Several immigration programs are seeing extended intake suspensions:
Program Changes
| Program Stream | Status | Resumes On |
| PEQ – Graduate Stream | Suspended | Nov 30, 2025 |
| PEQ – Temporary Worker Stream | Suspended | Nov 30, 2025 |
| Refugees Abroad (Collective Sponsorship) | Suspended | Dec 31, 2027 |
Important Notes for Immigration Candidates
Candidates for the PSTQ must have declared their interest on Arrima. Those who did so before Nov 29, 2024, need to update their form. Furthermore, applications already submitted under former programs (e.g., PRTQ or PEQ) will still be reviewed under existing rules. On the other hand, the family member applications (children or spouses) are not affected by these suspensions.