Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)

The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) is a fast-track immigration program designed for international students and temporary foreign workers already residing in Quebec.

The program provides a pathway to obtaining the Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), which is required to apply for permanent residence in Canada.

Below is a detailed guide to understanding and applying for the PEQ.

The 2026 Reopening: Reception Criteria and Selection Conditions

Quebec draws a distinction that decides most PEQ outcomes. Reception criteria determine who may submit an application during the 2 July to 31 October 2026 window. Selection conditions are what you must satisfy to actually be selected and issued a Certificat de sélection du Québec. Meeting the reception criteria alone is not enough: a person can be allowed to apply and still be refused for failing a selection condition.

Reception criteria – Québec Graduates stream

• Be staying in Quebec at the time you apply.
• As at 19 November 2025, hold one of these Quebec diplomas: a bachelor’s degree; a master’s; a doctorate; a technical Diploma of College Studies (DEC); a Diploma of Vocational Studies (DEP) of 1,800 hours or more; or a DEP followed by an Attestation of Specialization (ASP) totalling 1,800 hours or more.
• Have obtained that diploma in the three years before you apply.
• Have stayed temporarily in Quebec mainly to study, for at least half the length of your programme.

Reception criteria – Temporary Foreign Workers stream

• As at 19 November 2025, have acquired at least two years of eligible Quebec work experience in a National Occupational Classification TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3 occupation.
• Hold such a job at the time you apply.

What changed, and what did not

One selection condition was removed at the reopening: the Québec Graduates stream no longer requires the programme of study itself to have been taught in French. Every other selection condition is the same as it was when the programme was abolished on 19 November 2025.

French is still required, and it is measured on the Échelle québécoise des niveaux de compétence en français, not on the Common European Framework. Older summaries that describe a “B2 level” are using the wrong scale. The current requirements are:

• Québec Graduates: oral French at level 7 and written French at level 5.
• Temporary Foreign Workers: oral French at level 7.
• An accompanying spouse or common-law partner (either stream): oral French at level 4.

Applicants must also demonstrate that they have learned about the democratic and Québec values expressed in the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms – as must an accompanying partner and any dependants aged 18 or over – must not hold a scholarship carrying a condition of return to their country of origin, and must undertake to provide for their own essential needs and those of any partner and dependent children included in the application.

Processing time: the old six-month service commitment that the PEQ was once known for has not been reinstated, so no six-month guarantee should be assumed. Fees are payable separately for a PEQ and a PSTQ application and are not refunded if one of them is refused, so check the current tariff on quebec.ca before paying.

The sections below describe how the streams work in practice.

Overview of the PEQ

The PEQ is tailored for individuals with strong ties to Quebec, prioritizing candidates who are already integrated into the province’s labor market or academic institutions. Its streamlined processing makes it an attractive option for those who meet the eligibility requirements.

There are two main streams under the PEQ:

• International Student Stream
• Temporary Foreign Worker Stream

Eligibility Requirements

International Student Stream

To qualify, applicants must:

• Have completed an eligible Quebec diploma within the last three years, and have held that diploma as at 19 November 2025 to apply in the 2026 window.
• Have studied in Quebec for at least half the duration of their program.
• Demonstrate French proficiency on the Échelle québécoise – oral level 7 and written level 5. The former requirement for the programme of study to have been in French was removed at the 2026 reopening.
• Show intent to settle in Quebec.

Eligible Diplomas Include:

• Diploma of Vocational Studies (DEP) of 1,800 hours or more, alone or followed by an ASP totalling 1,800 hours or more
• Technical Diploma of College Studies (DEC) – an Attestation of College Studies (AEC) is not eligible
• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate degrees from Quebec universities

Temporary Foreign Worker Stream

To qualify, applicants must:

• Have at least 24 months of full-time, skilled work experience in Quebec within the last 36 months.
• Be employed in Quebec at the time of application.
• Demonstrate oral French at level 7 on the Échelle québécoise.
• Show intent to settle in Quebec.

French Language Proficiency

French proficiency is mandatory for both streams. Applicants must provide one of the following:

• Results from a recognised French test (for example TEF or TCF) showing the required levels on the Échelle québécoise – oral 7, plus written 5 for the Québec Graduates stream.
• Proof of completed studies in French at the secondary or post-secondary level.
• An attestation from a Quebec employer verifying the use of French in the workplace (for foreign workers).

Application Process

The application involves the following steps:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents Applicants must provide:

• Proof of identity (passport, status in Canada)
• Evidence of qualifying work experience or educational credentials
• Language test results or proof of French proficiency
• Proof of current employment (for temporary workers)
• Application fee

Step 2: Submit the Application for CSQ Applications are submitted to the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI). Ensure the application is complete to avoid delays or rejections.

Step 3: Application Review MIFI reviews the application, verifying the eligibility and authenticity of documents. Interviews may be conducted to confirm French proficiency.

Step 4: Receive the CSQ If approved, the applicant is issued a CSQ, enabling them to apply for permanent residence through the federal government.

Applying for Permanent Residence

After obtaining the CSQ, applicants must:

1. Submit a federal application for permanent residence.
2. Provide required documentation, including the CSQ, police clearance certificates, and medical examination results.
3. Pay federal processing fees.

The federal government assesses admissibility factors such as security, medical fitness, and criminal background.

Processing Times

• CSQ through PEQ: Typically processed within 6 months.
• Permanent Residence: Federal processing can take several months, depending on the applicant’s country of residence and the complexity of the case.

Benefits of the PEQ

• Fast-Track Process: Shorter processing times compared to other immigration pathways.
• Integration Support: Applicants already have work or study experience in Quebec, facilitating easier settlement.
• Permanent Residence for Family: Dependents of PEQ applicants can also gain permanent residence.

Challenges

• Strict Language Requirements: French proficiency is mandatory, which may be a hurdle for non-French speakers.
• Work Experience Criteria: Temporary workers must meet the 24-month requirement within a specific timeframe.
• Document Completeness: Incomplete applications can lead to delays or rejections.

Tips for a Successful Application

1. Improve French Skills Early: Enroll in French courses to ensure you meet the language requirement.
2. Keep Documents Organized: Collect work contracts, pay stubs, diplomas, and other essential paperwork in advance.
3. Stay Informed: Regularly check updates on the PEQ program on the official MIFI website.

The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) is an excellent immigration option for individuals with strong ties to Quebec through work or study. By meeting the eligibility criteria and preparing thoroughly, applicants can benefit from its expedited process and begin their journey toward permanent residency in Canada.