Quebec Cuts Immigration to 45,000 and Closes Quebec Experience Program
On This Page You Will Find
- Overview of Quebec’s 2026–2029 immigration orientations
- Permanent and temporary immigration targets for 2026
- Major changes to skilled worker and pilot programs
- New French language requirements for foreign workers
- Regional and labour market implications
Quebec to Limit Immigration to 45,000 in 2026
The Government of Quebec has announced plans to reduce total permanent immigration to 45,000 newcomers per year starting in 2026 as part of its new 2026–2029 immigration orientations. The move aims to control the overall number of temporary and permanent residents, citing the province’s limited capacity to integrate newcomers in French and provide public services.
According to the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI), the plan seeks to “restore balance between Quebec’s socioeconomic needs and its ability to receive and integrate immigrants in French.” The 2026 plan also introduces, for the first time, detailed targets for temporary immigration, estimating between 84,900 and 124,200 temporary entrants next year under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and International Student Program.
Quebec Experience Program to Close
Quebec will streamline its permanent immigration pathways by making the Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ) the only selection program for skilled workers. This change is meant to modernise the system and align it with the province’s priorities of regional development and French-language integration.
As part of this reform, the Québec Experience Program (PEQ) – which included the Quebec Graduate and Temporary Foreign Worker streams – will be formally ended on November 19, 2025. The government will also close its three permanent immigration pilot programs on January 1, 2026, including those for food processing workers, orderlies, and workers in artificial intelligence, information technology, and visual effects.
MIFI stated that candidates who wish to settle permanently can now declare their interest through the Arrima platform. Invitations will prioritise applicants already living in Quebec, particularly those with Quebec diplomas, regional work experience, or strong French language skills.
Extended Suspension of Refugee Sponsorship Applications
The Program for Refugees Abroad (Collective Sponsorship) will remain suspended for new applications until December 31, 2029. The government explained that with a sharp rise in the number of non-permanent residents, including refugee claimants already in Quebec, its priority is now to focus on integrating those already present.
Applications already submitted that meet eligibility requirements will continue to be processed, and requests to add family members will not be affected.
The province will extend its suspension of certain LMIA applications for jobs in the Montréal and Laval regions until December 31, 2026. This measure is designed to reduce reliance on non-permanent residents in urban areas while encouraging employers to hire workers already living in Quebec.
Starting December 17, 2025, a new French language requirement will apply to temporary foreign workers who have spent three years working in Quebec. They will need to demonstrate spoken French at level 4 to renew their Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) for work. A three-year transition period will run until December 17, 2028, giving current workers time to meet the standard.
Exceptions will apply to agricultural workers, foreign officials, and employees of international non-governmental organisations.
Focus on French and Regional Integration
French remains at the core of Quebec’s immigration policy. The government describes linguistic integration as essential to maintaining French as the common language and preserving Quebec’s cultural identity.
By capping immigration, tightening temporary entry, and requiring stronger French skills, Quebec aims to ensure that newcomers integrate successfully and contribute to the vitality of regional communities outside Montréal.
The regulatory amendments supporting these measures will be published in the Gazette officielle du Québec on November 19, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many immigrants will Quebec admit in 2026?
Quebec plans to admit 45,000 new permanent residents in 2026. This represents a cap designed to maintain integration capacity while continuing to meet essential labour market needs.
What happens to the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)?
The PEQ, including both the graduate and temporary worker streams, will officially end on November 19, 2025. Applicants interested in permanent residence must now apply through the new PSTQ system via Arrima.
Are the pilot immigration programs still open?
No. The three pilot programs for food processing, orderlies, and AI-related workers will close on January 1, 2026. Only the Francophone profile of the AI stream remains open until December 31, 2025.
What is the new French requirement for temporary foreign workers?
Temporary foreign workers who have worked in Quebec for three years must show level 4 spoken French to renew their CAQ for work. The rule takes effect on December 17, 2025, with a three-year transition period.
Why is Quebec reducing immigration levels?
The government says the reduction aims to ease pressure on public services, housing, and integration systems while ensuring immigrants can successfully integrate into Quebec’s French-speaking society.
