Changes in Quebec's Permanent Immigration and Refugee Programs: What You Need to Know

The government of Quebec has announced key updates regarding the management of three permanent immigration pilot programs and the collective sponsorship program for refugees abroad. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what these changes mean and how they could impact applicants.

Updates on the Three Permanent Immigration Pilot Programs

To address labor shortages in specific sectors, the government of Quebec introduced three permanent immigration pilot programs in 2021:

1. Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Workers in Food Processing (PP TA)

2. Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Beneficiary Attendants (PP PAB)

3. Permanent Immigration Pilot Program for Workers in Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, and Visual Effects (PP IA/TI-EV)

Reopening of Applications

The government of Quebec has decided to reopen applications for these three programs from January 13, 2025, to December 31, 2025. This will be the final year for these pilot programs, as they are set to conclude on January 1, 2026.

Maximum Number of Applications

• PP TA: A maximum of 600 applications will be accepted.

• PP PAB: A maximum of 600 applications will be accepted.

• PP IA/TI-EV: A maximum of 600 applications, split evenly between two streams:

  • Artificial Intelligence (IA): Up to 150 applications with a Francization profile.

  • Information Technology and Visual Effects (TI-EV): Up to 150 applications with a Francization profile.

Changes to the Collective Sponsorship Program for Refugees

Temporary Suspension of Applications

The government of Quebec has suspended the acceptance of new applications for the collective sponsorship program until June 30, 2025. This pause will allow for a review of immigration targets in the next multi-year immigration plan.

Exceptions to the Suspension

The following cases will not be affected:

• Existing applications: Applications already submitted that meet the program’s eligibility requirements will continue to be processed.

• Selected refugees: Refugees already chosen by Quebec can proceed with their immigration process toward permanent residency.

• Adding family members: Requests to include dependent children, spouses, or other family members will still be accepted.

Reason for the Suspension

The government of Quebec aims to reevaluate its humanitarian immigration strategy in light of the significant growth in the number of non-permanent residents, including refugees recognized locally. This pause will provide flexibility for adjustments to immigration targets in the upcoming plan, which is expected to be released in the spring of 2025.

What This Means for Applicants

For Pilot Program Applicants:

If you’re interested in one of the three pilot programs, mark your calendar for January 13, 2025, as the application window will be limited. Ensure your documents are ready and meet the specific requirements of your desired program. Remember that 2025 is the last year these programs will operate.

For Collective Sponsorship Applicants:

If you’re involved in the collective sponsorship program, note that new applications will not be accepted until mid-2025. However, ongoing cases and certain family additions are not impacted by this suspension.

Looking Ahead

These changes reflect the government of Quebec’s efforts to balance labor market needs, humanitarian priorities, and immigration fairness. By revisiting its policies and targets, the government aims to strengthen its overall immigration strategy while ensuring transparency and efficiency.

If you have questions about how these updates might affect your application or future plans, reach out to your designated contact at the Ministry of Immigration or consult an immigration professional for guidance.

Source: IRCC

Adapted by Immigria Editorial Team