The Quebec government has announced a temporary suspension of two primary pathways to permanent residency as part of a comprehensive review of its immigration strategy. Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge confirmed that the province will temporarily stop issuing Quebec Selection Certificates for both the Regular Skilled Worker Program and the Quebec Experience Program.
The moratorium, which could last until late spring, will affect foreign students and economic immigrants applying through these programs. According to Roberge, this pause will allow the province to address existing application backlogs and reassess its immigration policies. Despite the temporary freeze, the province maintains that this decision will not impact the permanent immigration targets set for 2025.
In a statement posted on X, Roberge emphasized the government’s aim to better regulate immigration in Quebec. He also indicated that the province is seriously considering reducing its permanent immigration targets, taking into account individuals currently holding temporary work and study permits.
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This provincial announcement follows recent federal immigration changes, with the Trudeau government announcing significant reductions in projected permanent resident numbers. The federal plan includes decreasing new permanent residents from 485,000 to 395,000 in 2025, followed by further reductions to 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027.
Also read: Under Pressure, Trudeau Retreats from Open-Door Immigration
The decision also comes amid concerns about private colleges being used primarily as pathways to citizenship, prompting Roberge to introduce legislation aimed at reducing the number of foreign students in Quebec.
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