New Measure Announced to Restrict Post-Graduation Work Permits in Quebec

Ottawa, ON—June 7, 2022—In a significant policy shift, Quebec's Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Solidarity, Jean Boulet, and Canada's Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Honourable Sean Fraser, have jointly announced a new measure aimed at restricting access to post-graduation work permits for certain graduates from unsubsidized private learning institutions in Quebec.

Policy Changes in Quebec

The new regulation dictates that post-graduation work permits will be exclusively available to graduates from subsidized programs of study. This decision stems from a recent investigation conducted by Quebec’s Ministère de l’Enseignement supérieur, which highlighted several concerns regarding unsubsidized private colleges.

Objectives of the New Measure

• Alignment with National Standards: By restricting post-graduation work permits to graduates of subsidized programs, Quebec aims to align its policies with those of other Canadian provinces.

• Preventing Misuse: The measure seeks to prevent Quebec from becoming a loophole for permanent settlement in Canada by international students attending unsubsidized programs.

Background and Implications

In most Canadian provinces, international students who complete unsubsidized programs typically do not qualify for post-graduation work permits. This policy adjustment by Quebec ensures a consistent national standard, thereby maintaining the integrity of Canada's immigration system and addressing potential loopholes that could be exploited for permanent residency.

A Step Towards Cohesive Immigration Policy

The collaborative efforts between Quebec and the federal government underscore a commitment to coherent and fair immigration practices across the country. By standardizing the eligibility criteria for post-graduation work permits, both levels of government aim to promote a balanced and equitable approach to immigration, ensuring that opportunities remain available to those who follow subsidized educational paths.

This policy shift highlights the importance of transparency and consistency in immigration regulations and reflects a broader strategy to manage and optimize Canada's immigration framework effectively. As Canada continues to welcome international students, such measures are crucial in maintaining the credibility and sustainability of its immigration programs.