Quebec Immigration Upheaval: Protests Erupt Over PEQ Program’s Demise
Protests flared across Quebec this weekend as thousands voiced their opposition to the termination of the Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ). The program, which offered a pathway to permanent residency for foreign workers and international students, officially ended on November 19, 2025, leaving many in a precarious situation.
A Wave of Disappointment and Anger
Demonstrations took place in seven cities – Montreal, Quebec City, Trois-Rivières, Sherbrooke, Chicoutimi, Gatineau, and Rimouski – with protestors expressing feelings of “catastrophe,” “betrayal,” and “inhumanity.” Alae Amarouch, a bus driver who immigrated to Quebec over two years ago, encapsulated the sentiment, stating, “It’s unfortunate, desperate, and I feel betrayed by this government.”
The core of the discontent stems from the lack of a “grandfather clause” protecting those already in the process under the PEQ. Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge has closed the door on reviving the program for existing applicants, forcing them to navigate the new Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ).
Economic Concerns Mount
The end of the PEQ isn’t just a personal crisis for immigrants; it’s raising alarms within Quebec’s business community. Organizations like Tourisme Montréal, the Greater Montreal Hotel Association, and the Quebec Restaurant Association have warned of significant repercussions, particularly in sectors facing severe labor shortages. They are urging the government to implement a clause protecting those already in the system.
The situation is compounded by a moratorium on renewing work permits for many foreign workers. Without the PEQ as a viable pathway to permanent residency, businesses fear an exacerbation of the existing recruitment crisis.
Legal Challenges and Political Pressure
Anger is now turning into legal action. Immigrants are preparing to sue the Quebec government over the program’s cancellation. Opposition parties, unions (including the CSN, FTQ, and CSQ), and municipalities are too adding to the pressure, demanding a resolution that protects those who relied on the PEQ’s promises.
The Union of Quebec Municipalities (UMQ) has voiced its concerns, noting the constant stream of worried calls from businesses and workers. Mayor Jean-François Aubin of Trois-Rivières emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “It’s not acceptable… I think our ministers, our elected officials need to understand.”
The Debate Over Fairness and Promises
Liberal MP André Fortin criticized the government for initially using the PEQ to attract immigrants and then reneging on the promise of a path to citizenship. The core argument revolves around the principle of not changing the rules mid-game, especially for those who made life-altering decisions based on the existing framework.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the PEQ? The Programme de l’expérience québécoise was a program designed to allow foreign workers and international students who had experience in Quebec to apply for permanent residency.
Why was the PEQ cancelled? The Quebec government replaced the PEQ with the Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ).
Is there any recourse for those already in the PEQ process? Currently, the government has not offered a clause protecting those already in the process, and Minister Roberge has ruled out reviving the PEQ for existing applicants.
What is the PSTQ? The Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés is the new program for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Quebec.
What are the concerns about the PSTQ? There are concerns that the PSTQ may not be as accessible as the PEQ, and that many applicants who qualified under the PEQ may not meet the criteria for the new program.
Pro Tip: If you were eligible for the PEQ, carefully review the requirements for the PSTQ and consider seeking professional immigration advice to assess your options.
Did you know? The PEQ was a key tool for attracting and retaining international talent in Quebec, particularly in sectors like tourism, hospitality, and restaurants.
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