In a bid to control immigration levels, Quebec, a province in Canada, has implemented temporary measures affecting its permanent immigration pathways. The adjustments come amid growing numbers of non-permanent residents in the province.
Quebec Immigration Plan for 2025
Quebec’s new immigration plan aims to admit between 48,500 and 51,500 immigrants through regular immigration channels, alongside those from the “Québec graduate” stream of the Quebec Experience Program.
Temporary Measures Effective October 31, 2024
- Suspension of Applications Under Quebec Graduate Stream
Quebec has temporarily halted new applications for permanent selection under the “Quebec graduate” stream. This measure is effective from October 31, 2024, to June 30, 2025. During this period, Quebec will not accept new applications under this stream. However, applications submitted before the suspension will still be processed.
- Suspension of Invitations for Skilled Worker Programs
Starting November 29, 2024, invitations for permanent selection under the Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP) and its forthcoming replacement, the Skilled Worker Selection Program (SWSP), are also temporarily suspended. This pause extends until June 30, 2025.
Continued Application Processing
Despite these suspensions, applications from individuals already selected under the Québec Experience Program’s “Québec graduate” stream will continue to be processed. Additionally, adding family members to existing applications remains unaffected by these changes.
Impact on Temporary Foreign Workers
The “Temporary foreign worker” stream remains operational and unaffected by these changes. Applicants can still apply for permanent selection through this pathway.
These measures are set to remain in place until June 30, 2025. By then, Quebec plans to finalize and announce its next set of multi-year immigration guidelines.
Submission Process and Future Planning for RSWP Applicants
Applicants invited to apply for permanent selection under the Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP) before October 31, 2024, should submit their applications within the mandatory 60-day period. The Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) will continue evaluating RSWP applications already filed, adhering to the program’s existing stipulations, even after the Skilled Worker Selection Program (SWSP) is implemented.
It’s important to note that the temporary halt in invitation issuance does not affect the 18-month validity of validated job offers (VJOs). Once invitations recommence, by June 30, 2025, at the latest, VJO holders will be eligible to utilize their offers.
Despite the interim pause on invitations, Québec will maintain its acceptance and processing of job offer validation applications from employers. Additionally, a new multi-year planning initiative will commence in spring 2025 for the period beginning in 2026, considering both temporary and permanent immigration pathways.
These measures are set to remain in place until June 30, 2025. By then, Quebec plans to finalize and announce its next set of multi-year immigration guidelines.
