Quebec Unveils Major Immigration Overhaul: New Plans for 2026–2029 Focus on French, Fewer Temporary Residents
Montreal, QC – In a landmark announcement that signals a shift in provincial immigration policy, Quebec Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge has released a comprehensive set of proposed immigration reforms set to guide the province’s strategy from 2026 through 2029. The proposed measures emphasize a reduction in temporary resident levels, a reinforced commitment to the French language, and a targeted approach to permanent residency.
The proposed policy framework is now open to public consultation, with feedback being accepted until August 15, 2025.
Key Immigration Proposals from Quebec (2026–2029)
In a public presentation, Minister Roberge outlined the government’s intentions to:
- Reduce the Number of Temporary Residents
For the first time, Quebec is proposing to establish fixed targets for temporary residents. This includes a significant reduction in the number of temporary foreign workers, a move aimed at curbing what the province sees as unsustainable growth. The minister called for a federal reduction of national temporary foreign worker intake from 400,000 to 200,000, pointing to the disproportionate impact on Quebec. - Reopen the Skilled Worker Selection Program (SWSP)
Quebec will resume invitations under the SWSP starting July 2025, following a lengthy pause. However, stricter conditions and updated quotas are expected. - Extend the Suspension of the PEQ – Diplôme Pathway
The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) – Diplôme stream will remain paused until November 30, 2025. This popular permanent residency route for Quebec-educated foreign graduates had been a critical avenue for immigration until its recent suspension. - Prioritize In-Province Applicants for PR
The government plans to prioritize temporary residents already living in Quebec for transition to permanent residency, focusing on individuals who have integrated into the province’s society and economy. - French Language Requirements for Work Permit Renewals
New rules would require temporary foreign workers to demonstrate a minimum level of French proficiency in order to renew their permits. This would be a first in Canada and reflects Quebec’s growing emphasis on linguistic integration. - Launch a New Permanent Residency Selection Program
A brand-new program designed to select permanent residents is expected to be introduced in fall 2025, with further details to be disclosed after the public consultation process.
Roberge’s Strong Words on Temporary Immigration Growth
Displaying a chart of the rising number of temporary residents, Minister Roberge criticized the federal government’s handling of the International Mobility Program (IMP), blaming Ottawa for enabling a dramatic increase in non-permanent residents in Quebec.
“Becoming a Quebecer is a privilege, not a right,” Roberge declared, highlighting the need to protect the French language and preserve the province’s cultural identity.
Context: Recent Quebec Immigration Trends
The announcement follows a year of sweeping policy changes in Quebec’s immigration system, even as the province maintains its target of 48,500 to 51,500 new permanent residents in 2025.
Key Recent Developments Include:
- Temporary Suspension of Key Immigration Pathways
The PEQ – Diplôme stream and invitations under the SWSP were both paused earlier this year. These two programs historically accounted for a significant portion of Quebec’s skilled immigration intake. - New Nationality Caps Introduced
A country cap was implemented for the SWSP, limiting applications to no more than 25% from any single country, to ensure more diversity in Quebec’s immigrant population. - French Language Emphasis Intensified
The government has doubled down on French proficiency, now requiring 79–80% of all admitted immigrants to speak French upon arrival.
Public Consultation Underway
These proposed changes are not yet final. Quebec’s immigration ministry has opened the consultation process to the public and stakeholders until August 15, 2025. The government aims to finalize the framework by the end of the year.
Implications for Immigrants and Employers
The proposed measures will impact:
- International Students: With the extended suspension of the PEQ – Diplôme stream, graduates must consider alternative pathways or provinces.
- Temporary Foreign Workers: Language tests may now be necessary for renewals, which could create hurdles for those with limited French.
- Employers in Quebec: Industries relying on temporary labor, particularly in agriculture, hospitality, and construction, may face more difficulty filling positions.
- Permanent Residency Aspirants: Those already in Quebec may benefit from being prioritized for PR, particularly if they meet the new language and integration criteria.
Conclusion
Quebec’s new immigration vision for 2026–2029 reflects a bold and restrictive direction focused on preserving French language and culture, reducing temporary migration, and strengthening the pathway for residents already in the province. The next few months of public feedback will determine how these proposals evolve—and how they shape the future of immigration in Quebec.
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