Quebec's PEQ Program Cancellation Leaves Immigrants in Limbo
The future of Quebec's popular immigration program, the Programme de l'expérience québécoise (PEQ), remains uncertain after its abrupt cancellation in November 2025. This decision by the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government has created significant instability for thousands of immigrants who had planned their lives around obtaining permanent residence through this pathway.
Political Promises Offer Limited Hope
Quebec Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge terminated the PEQ program, which had provided status to French-speaking immigrants with Quebec work or study experience. The move left many without a clear path to remain in the province. However, recent developments suggest a possible partial reopening, as both candidates vying to replace François Legault as CAQ leader and premier have made promises regarding the program.
Christine Fréchette, who initially opposed reviving PEQ, reversed her position in February 2026, advocating for a two-year reopening to accommodate immigrants who had planned to apply. Meanwhile, Bernard Drainville proposes a grandfather clause that would allow immigrants in specific sectors like healthcare and education to apply. Despite these political maneuvers, Minister Roberge has indicated no changes will occur until the next premier assumes office.
Personal Stories Highlight Human Impact
The uncertainty has forced immigrants like Diego Morales Cañizares and his wife Maria Paula to develop contingency plans. "We're still keeping different plans on the table," Morales explained, with their primary option being relocation to Ottawa where federal immigration programs might offer better prospects. The couple, who have established roots in Montreal with a car, apartment, and social connections, would prefer to remain but face diminishing options.
Jonald Ranera, a Filipino caregiver at CHSLD Manoir Harwood, represents another affected individual. His family initially considered moving to another province when PEQ was cancelled but ultimately decided to fight to stay in Quebec for their children's education. "As parents, we said: 'Don't worry. We will do our best to stay here,'" Ranera stated, though he now faces the challenging PSTQ points system that disadvantages Montreal-area residents.
Replacement Program Creates New Challenges
The Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ), established to replace PEQ, operates on a points system that prioritizes immigrants outside the Montreal metropolitan area. This creates particular difficulties for workers in regions like Vaudreuil-Dorion, which falls within the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal. Immigration lawyer Laurence Trempe noted that immigrants "have no idea whether they'll be selected" under this new system, potentially leaving them in limbo for extended periods.
The Vaudreuil-Soulanges MRC has requested territorial exemptions to facilitate work permit renewals for immigrants in their region, highlighting the program's regional disparities. At CHSLD Manoir Harwood alone, 34 caregivers and two nurses face uncertain immigration status, with the facility providing psychological support to affected workers due to heightened anxiety levels.
Broader Implications and Public Opinion
A recent Léger survey commissioned by the Union des municipalités du Québec revealed that 83% of Quebecers support allowing established immigrants to remain in the province. This public sentiment contrasts with the government's approach, which has drawn criticism from unions, employers, and municipal leaders across Quebec.
Manuel Salamanca Cardona, a community organizer at the Immigrant Workers Centre, observed that "the general sense is that it's more difficult in Quebec" to obtain permanent status compared to other Canadian provinces. He noted that some immigrants have already left Canada entirely due to the PEQ cancellation, emphasizing that "the harm is already done."
As the April 12 CAQ leadership election approaches, immigrants like Morales place cautious hope in political resolutions while preparing for potential relocation. The situation underscores the human consequences of immigration policy changes and the precarious position of thousands who have built their lives in Quebec.
