Quebec PEQ: Fast-Track Immigration Program (2025 Update)

The Quebec Experience Program offers permanent residency in just 6 months for qualified applicants with Quebec education or work experience

On This Page You Will Find:

• Critical suspension updates affecting all PEQ applications through November 2025
• Complete eligibility requirements for both workers and graduates streams
• Step-by-step application process through the new Arrima portal
• French language requirements and acceptable proof methods
• Processing timelines, fees, and what to expect during the 6-month review
• Alternative pathways when PEQ isn't available or suitable

Summary:

Quebec's Experience Program (PEQ) remains one of Canada's fastest immigration pathways, designed for those who've already built their lives in la belle province. While currently suspended until November 2025, understanding PEQ requirements is crucial for planning your permanent residency journey. This program has helped over 70,000 people transition from temporary to permanent status, offering 6-month processing times for qualified applicants with Quebec work experience or education. Whether you're a recent graduate or skilled worker, knowing these requirements now positions you for success when applications reopen.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Both PEQ streams (workers and graduates) are suspended until November 30, 2025
• When active, PEQ processes applications within 6 months - significantly faster than other programs
• Workers need 24 months of full-time Quebec experience in skilled positions (NOC TEER 0, A, B)
• Graduates must have studied 1,800+ hours in Quebec and obtained eligible diplomas within 36 months
• French proficiency Level 7 (oral) required for principal applicants, Level 4 for spouses

Maria stared at her McGill University diploma, then at her Post-Graduation Work Permit expiring in eight months. After three years studying in Montreal and eighteen months working as a software developer downtown, she'd fallen in love with Quebec's unique blend of European charm and North American opportunity. But navigating Quebec's immigration system felt overwhelming – until she discovered the Quebec Experience Program.

If you're like Maria, having invested years building your life in Quebec, the PEQ represents your most direct path to permanent residency. But here's what many don't realize: this program is currently suspended, and understanding why – plus what's coming next – could make or break your immigration timeline.

What Makes Quebec Immigration Different

Quebec operates under a unique agreement with the federal government, giving the province exclusive authority to select its economic immigrants. This means you need two approvals: first, a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) from the provincial government, then permanent residency approval from Ottawa.

The PEQ was designed specifically for people already integrated into Quebec society – those who understand the culture, speak French, and contribute to the economy. Since launching in 2010, it's issued over 70,000 selection certificates, making it so popular that by 2019, 86% of all Quebec CSQs went to PEQ applicants.

That popularity led to the current suspension. The Quebec government wants better distribution across all immigration programs and closer alignment with labor market needs.

Current Status: Why PEQ is Suspended

Both PEQ streams – workers and graduates – won't accept new applications until November 30, 2025.

This suspension affects thousands of potential applicants annually. The Quebec government is redesigning the program to:

• Better match applicant skills with labor market demands
• Reduce overwhelming application volumes
• Improve processing efficiency
• Ensure geographic distribution of immigrants across Quebec

If you're currently in Quebec on a temporary status, use this suspension period strategically. Continue building your French proficiency, accumulating work experience, and maintaining legal status for when applications reopen.

PEQ Workers Stream: Requirements and Strategy

When the workers stream reopens, you'll need to demonstrate significant Quebec integration:

Work Experience Requirements

• 24 months of full-time work within the 36 months before applying
• Minimum 30 hours per week (MIFI's full-time definition)
• Employment in NOC TEER categories 0, A, or B positions only
• Legal work authorization throughout this period
• Current employment in an eligible position when applying

What counts as eligible work experience:

• Post-graduation work permit employment
• International Experience Canada (IEC) program work
• Youth exchange program positions
• Any legally authorized skilled employment

What doesn't count:

• Part-time work (under 30 hours weekly)
• Self-employment or entrepreneurial activities
• Unauthorized work periods
• Employment gaps, even if you maintained legal status

French Language Proficiency

The language requirements reflect Quebec's commitment to francophone integration:

• Principal applicant: Level 7 oral French (Quebec scale)
• Spouse/partner: Level 4 oral French (Quebec scale)

You can demonstrate French proficiency through:

• Standardized test results (TEFaQ, TCFQ, DELF, DALF)
• Educational transcripts showing three years of full-time French-language study
• Professional order French language requirements (for regulated professions)

Pro tip: Start French language training immediately, even during the suspension. Level 7 represents advanced intermediate proficiency – think conducting business meetings, explaining complex topics, and handling workplace conflicts entirely in French.

PEQ Graduates Stream: Education and Experience

Quebec graduates face additional requirements beyond their diplomas:

Educational Requirements

Your Quebec education must include:

• Minimum 1,800 study hours (approximately two years)
• Completion at a Quebec government-recognized institution
• At least half the program duration spent physically in Quebec
• Diploma obtained within 36 months of application

Eligible diplomas include:

• Bachelor's degrees (all fields)
• Master's degrees and MBAs
• Doctoral degrees (PhD)
• Diploma of College Studies (DEC) - technical programs
• Diploma of Vocational Studies (DEP) - minimum 1,800 hours
• DEP plus Attestation of Vocational Specialization (AVS) combinations totaling 1,800+ hours

Work Experience for Graduates

Recent changes mean Quebec education alone isn't sufficient. You also need:

For university graduates (Bachelor's, Master's, PhD) and DEC holders:

• 12 months work experience in NOC TEER 0, A, or B positions
• Current employment in eligible position when applying

For DEP holders:

• 18 months work experience in NOC TEER 0, A, B, or C positions
• For TEER C positions, work must relate directly to your diploma field
• Current employment in eligible position when applying

Special consideration: Mandatory internships count toward work experience, maximum three months.

Language Requirements for Graduates

Graduate stream language requirements are more stringent:

• Principal applicant: Level 7 oral AND Level 5 written French
• Spouse/partner: Level 4 oral French

Alternative proof includes completing your entire Quebec program in French, with 75% of courses or credits in French.

Application Process: Navigating Arrima

When PEQ reopens, all applications must go through Quebec's Arrima portal – no paper applications accepted.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Step 1: Document Preparation Gather all required documents before starting your online application. Missing documents result in automatic rejection.

Step 2: Arrima Profile Creation Create your secure profile on the Arrima platform. This becomes your communication hub with MIFI throughout the process.

Step 3: Application Submission Complete your application entirely online, uploading all supporting documents in acceptable formats.

Step 4: Fee Payment Pay processing fees immediately upon submission:

• Principal applicant: $822 CAD
• Spouse/common-law partner: $176 CAD
• Each dependent child: $176 CAD

Step 5: Application Review MIFI processes complete applications within six months. This timeline starts when they receive your complete application with all documents and fees.

Financial Requirements and Family Considerations

Demonstrating Financial Self-Sufficiency

You must prove ability to support yourself and family members financially. While specific amounts aren't published, prepare to show:

• Employment income meeting Quebec standards
• Savings for initial settlement costs
• Understanding of Quebec living expenses

Including Family Members

Spouses and common-law partners:

• Must be declared and included in application
• Require French proficiency (Level 4 oral)
• Subject to additional processing fees

Dependent children:

• All children must be declared, regardless of citizenship
• Children under 19 can be included as dependents
• Canadian-born children don't need CSQs but must still be declared
• Processing fees apply only to non-Canadian children

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge 1: French Proficiency Timeline

Many applicants underestimate the time needed to reach Level 7 French proficiency.

Solution: Begin intensive French training immediately. Consider:

• Full-time French courses at Quebec institutions
• Private tutoring focused on oral communication
• Workplace French programs
• Community conversation groups
• French media consumption (news, podcasts, television)

Challenge 2: Work Experience Documentation

Proving 24 months of qualifying work experience requires meticulous record-keeping.

Solution: Maintain detailed employment records including:

• Employment contracts and amendments
• Pay stubs for every pay period
• Tax documents (T4s, Relevé 1s)
• Letters from employers confirming hours and duties
• Performance reviews and promotion letters

Challenge 3: Timing Your Application

The 36-month window for graduates creates pressure to apply quickly after graduation.

Solution: Plan strategically:

• Apply as soon as you meet minimum requirements
• Don't wait for "perfect" circumstances
• Ensure all documents are current and valid
• Consider professional immigration assistance for complex cases

Alternative Pathways During Suspension

While PEQ remains suspended, several alternatives exist:

Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)

This points-based system remains open and considers Quebec experience favorably. Your PEQ-qualifying experience strengthens your QSWP application through:

• Quebec work experience points
• Quebec education points
• French proficiency points
• Age and education combinations

Federal Programs

Your Quebec experience may qualify you for federal programs:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Provincial Nominee Programs in other provinces

Maintaining Status

Focus on maintaining legal status while building qualifications:

• Work permit extensions
• Study permit renewals for additional qualifications
• Visitor status if needed between permits

Looking Ahead: Preparing for PEQ's Return

Use the suspension period strategically to strengthen your future application:

Skill Development Priorities

1. French Language Mastery

   • Achieve Level 7+ proficiency well before applications reopen
   • Focus especially on professional and technical vocabulary
   • Practice formal written French for documentation

2. Work Experience Accumulation

   • Seek promotions within your current role
   • Pursue additional responsibilities demonstrating leadership
   • Document all achievements and contributions

3. Professional Development

   • Obtain professional certifications relevant to your field
   • Join Quebec professional associations
   • Build networks within Quebec's business community

Document Organization

Create a comprehensive file system now:

• Digital and physical copies of all documents
• Translation of non-English/French documents
• Regular updates to employment records
• Backup copies stored securely

The Financial Investment

Understanding PEQ costs helps with financial planning:

Government Fees

• Principal applicant: $822
• Spouse: $176
• Each child: $176
• Total for family of four: $1,350

Additional Costs

• Document translation: $500-1,500
• French language testing: $200-400
• Professional consultation: $1,000-5,000
• Document certification and notarization: $200-500

Return on Investment

Consider PEQ costs against the long-term benefits:

• Permanent residency leading to citizenship eligibility
• Access to Canadian healthcare and social programs
• In-province tuition rates for children
• Unrestricted employment opportunities
• Ability to sponsor family members

What Success Looks Like

When Maria finally submitted her PEQ application (this will be possible again after November 2025), she had:

• Level 8 French proficiency from intensive courses
• 30 months of software development experience in Montreal
• Complete documentation of her Quebec integration
• Strong professional networks and community connections

Six months later, she received her CSQ. Within another year, she became a permanent resident, eventually bringing her parents to Canada through family sponsorship.

Your Quebec experience – whether through study, work, or both – represents more than immigration qualifications. It demonstrates your commitment to Quebec society and your ability to contribute meaningfully to the province's future.

The PEQ suspension is temporary, but your preparation should be ongoing. Use this time to strengthen your profile, perfect your French, and build the Quebec connections that will serve you throughout your Canadian journey.

When applications reopen in late 2025, you'll be ready to take advantage of one of Canada's fastest and most direct paths to permanent residency. Your Quebec experience isn't just your qualification – it's your competitive advantage in building the Canadian future you've been working toward.