Montreal Demands Fairness as Quebec’s Immigration System Undergoes Seismic Shift
The city of Montreal is pushing back against recent changes to Quebec’s immigration policies, specifically the abolition of the Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ), or Quebec Experience Program. On January 26, 2026, Montreal’s city council formally requested a “grandfather clause” to protect individuals already established in the province and those eligible for the PEQ before its abrupt end. This move highlights growing anxieties about Quebec’s ability to attract and retain skilled workers, and signals a potential turning point in the province’s immigration strategy.
The PEQ’s Demise: A Broken Promise?
The PEQ was designed to streamline immigration for individuals who had already studied and worked in Quebec, offering a faster path to permanent residency. Its cancellation, initially announced with a freeze on applications in June 2025 and finalized in November 2025, has left many in limbo. Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada has labelled the decision a “broken promise,” emphasizing the program’s crucial role in attracting international talent. The concern isn’t just about fairness; it’s about economic viability.
The shift comes as Quebec transitions to a points-based system under the Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ), or Skilled Worker Selection Program. Montreal officials argue this new system disproportionately disadvantages the city and Laval, potentially diverting skilled immigrants to other regions. This is a critical point, as Montreal and Laval are major economic hubs and rely heavily on a consistent influx of qualified professionals.
Did you know? Quebec’s immigration policies are largely under provincial jurisdiction, giving it significant control over who can settle in the province. This autonomy is a key aspect of Quebec’s identity and has historically shaped its immigration strategies.
Ripple Effects Across Key Sectors
The fallout from the PEQ’s abolition is already being felt across multiple sectors. Universities are struggling to retain international professors, childcare centers face staffing shortages, and even grocery stores are reporting difficulties filling positions. These aren’t isolated incidents; they represent a systemic challenge to Quebec’s labor market. A recent report by Radio-Canada (ICI Radio-Canada) detailed the growing concerns within the university sector, while Le Devoir (Le Devoir) highlighted the impact on childcare services.
The situation is further complicated by restrictions on temporary foreign workers, adding another layer of pressure on employers. This confluence of factors is creating a perfect storm, potentially hindering Quebec’s economic growth.
The PSTQ and Limited Invitations
In late January 2026, Minister Roberge announced the issuance of 2,500 invitations under the PSTQ, with plans to continue monthly draws until a total of 29,000 invitations are sent throughout the year (Le Devoir). While this represents a commitment to skilled worker immigration, many question whether it’s sufficient to address the immediate needs and compensate for the loss of the PEQ. The limited number of invitations raises concerns about the program’s capacity to effectively fill critical labor shortages.
Future Trends and Potential Solutions
Several trends are likely to shape Quebec’s immigration landscape in the coming years:
- Increased Regionalization: The PSTQ’s points-based system may incentivize immigration to regions outside of Montreal and Laval, potentially addressing demographic imbalances but also requiring significant investment in infrastructure and services in those areas.
- Focus on Francophone Skills: Quebec will likely continue to prioritize applicants with strong French language skills, potentially leading to more targeted recruitment efforts in Francophone countries.
- Demand for Flexibility: The pressure for a “grandfather clause” or other transitional measures will likely persist, as stakeholders advocate for a more humane and pragmatic approach to immigration policy.
- Technological Integration: Expect increased use of AI and data analytics in the PSTQ selection process to streamline applications and identify candidates with the most in-demand skills.
Pro Tip: For individuals considering immigration to Quebec, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest policy changes and to carefully assess their eligibility under the PSTQ. Consulting with an immigration lawyer or consultant can provide valuable guidance.
FAQ
Q: What was the PEQ?
A: The PEQ was a program designed to fast-track permanent residency for individuals who had studied and worked in Quebec.
Q: Why was the PEQ abolished?
A: The Quebec government cited concerns about the program’s effectiveness and a desire to streamline the immigration process.
Q: What is the PSTQ?
A: The PSTQ is a points-based system for selecting skilled workers for immigration to Quebec.
Q: Will there be any exceptions for those who were eligible for the PEQ before its cancellation?
A: Montreal is advocating for a “grandfather clause,” but the Quebec government has not yet committed to any such measure.
Q: Where can I find more information about Quebec’s immigration policies?
A: Visit the official website of Immigration, Francisation and Integration Quebec: https://www.quebec.ca/en/immigration
What are your thoughts on Quebec’s immigration changes? Share your perspective in the comments below! Explore our other articles on Canadian immigration and economic trends for more in-depth analysis. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and insights.
