Quebec will reopen shuttered PEQ immigration program - Montreal Gazette
Quebec announced it will reopen the shuttered PEQ immigration program. The minister made this announcement on June 11, 2026. The program is expected to take effect soon, although the exact date has not been specified.
This decision matters because the PEQ program has historically been a popular pathway for international students and workers to obtain permanent residence in Quebec. Prior to its closure, the program allowed individuals who had studied or worked in Quebec to apply for permanent residence, providing a vital source of skilled labor for the province. The reopening of the program is a significant development, as it will once again provide opportunities for eligible applicants to build their lives in Quebec. The PEQ program has been an important part of Quebec's immigration strategy, and its reopening is likely to be welcomed by many who have been waiting for this opportunity.
The specific mechanics of the reopened program have not been fully detailed, but it is expected to retain its core eligibility criteria, which include requirements related to language proficiency, education, and work experience. Applicants will likely need to demonstrate a strong connection to Quebec, such as having studied or worked in the province, and meet specific criteria related to their field of study or work. The program may also include requirements related to documentation, such as proof of language proficiency or educational credentials.
The release states "reopening".
The reopening of the PEQ program will have a significant impact on several groups, including international students who have studied in Quebec, workers who have been employed in the province, and individuals who have been waiting for the program to reopen. Applicants from countries such as France, China, and India, who have historically been well-represented in the program, may be particularly interested in this development. The program's reopening will also be of interest to employers in Quebec who are looking to recruit and retain skilled workers.
For those who are interested in applying to the reopened PEQ program, the next step will be to review the program's eligibility criteria and ensure they meet the necessary requirements. Applicants should check the official Quebec immigration website for updates on the program's application process and timeline, and should be prepared to submit their applications as soon as the program reopens. It is also important for applicants to review their online account and ensure that all necessary documents are up to date, as this will facilitate a smooth application process.