Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
The Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ), also known as the Quebec Experience Program, is a streamlined immigration pathway for French-speaking international students and temporary foreign workers in Quebec. This fast-track program allows qualified applicants to transition more easily to permanent residence, highlighting Quebec’s focus on economic integration and French language skills.
Overview of Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
The PEQ consists of two primary streams:
- PEQ – Student (Quebec Graduates): For international students who have completed a qualifying post-secondary program in Quebec.
- PEQ – Worker: For temporary foreign workers who have gained skilled work experience in Quebec.
To apply, candidates must meet both the general and specific requirements of their selected stream. Successful applicants receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), an essential document for applying for permanent residence. Those who do not qualify for the PEQ may still apply for a CSQ under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP).
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Latest Updates on Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
Significant Changes in 2024
Recent changes to the PEQ reflect Quebec’s strategic focus on managing its immigration levels and reinforcing French language integration:
- Introduction of Spousal Language Requirements: Since July 2023, spouses included in PEQ applications must demonstrate spoken French proficiency at a minimum level 4 on the Quebec scale. This requirement supports Quebec’s goal of maintaining a francophone culture.
- Temporary Suspension of PEQ Graduate Stream: Starting in late 2024, Quebec temporarily suspended new invitations under the PEQ graduate stream until June 30, 2025. This pause will help manage application volumes and allow Quebec to adjust its policies for a more streamlined process.
- Country-Specific Cap: Quebec now limits the number of PEQ applicants from any single country to a maximum of 25% of total invitations per year, promoting diversity within the program.
- Enhanced French Proficiency Requirements: Effective November 2024, principal applicants must have at least an advanced-intermediate level (level 7) in spoken French, while spouses must demonstrate level 4 proficiency.
These updates reflect Quebec’s commitment to a balanced, diverse immigration strategy that supports the province’s francophone identity.
Overview of Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
Immigration to Quebec under the PEQ has a two-step process.
- Applicants must be eligible to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (Certificat de sélection du Québec, or CSQ);
- With a CSQ, the applicant may then apply to the federal government for Canadian permanent residence. This stage is just to check for potential medical and security issues.
You must meet the general conditions of the program and the specific conditions of the stream in which you submit your application. Candidates must have acquired work experience in Québec and be employed at the time they submit the application.
Applicants who apply successfully through the PEQ receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (Certificat de sélection du Québec, CSQ), which is required in order to immigrate permanently to the province.
What is the requirements for Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
All PEQ Applicants Must Meet The Following General Requirements For The Program:
- Have respected the conditions of your stay.
- Intend to settle in Québec to hold a job.
- Are 18 years of age or older.
- Applicants are legally in Québec at the time of application.
- Must prove advanced-intermediate or better French oral expression and comprehension skills in order to be considered eligible. Proof may come in the form of:
- Requirements of a professional order.
- Results of an approved language test.
- A final transcript showing the successful completion of at least three years of secondary or post-secondary full-time study pursued entirely in French, or
- A regular licence to practice from a professional order in Quebec or an attestation of the fulfillment of the language requirements of a professional order.
- Show advanced intermediate knowledge of oral French; accompanying spouses must also demonstrate knowledge of the French language.
- Able to provide for their needs and, where applicable, those of their spouse or common in law, and dependent children included in their application for a certificate de sélection du Québec (CSQ), for a minimum period of 3 months.
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Accepted French-Language Tests or Courses
- Test d’évaluation du français adapté pour le Québec (TEFAQ).
- Test de connaissance du français pour le Québec (TCF-Québec).
- Test d’évaluation du français (TEF).
- Test d’évaluation du français pour le Canada (TEF Canada).
- Test de connaissance du français (TCF).
- Diplôme d’études en langue française (DELF).
- Diplôme approfondi de langue française (DALF).
How long does it take to process PEQ Quebec?
The PEQ is known for its expedited processing. While applications traditionally took about 20 business days, recent adjustments mean processing times may extend to up to six months due to the increased demand and temporary suspensions. Applicants are encouraged to carefully review and submit complete applications to avoid delays.
Next Steps After Receiving a CSQ: Once applicants receive a CSQ, they must apply to the federal government for permanent residence, where they undergo health and security checks.
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Eligibility Criteria for Temporary Foreign Workers in Quebec
Temporary foreign workers aiming to apply for the Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) through PEQ must fulfill specific eligibility standards, which center around their commitment to work in Quebec, language skills, and the nature of their employment.
Key Requirements:
- Intent and Employment in Quebec: Applicants should demonstrate a clear intention to reside and work in Quebec. Importantly, the job must align with eligible occupational categories and exclude certain restricted sectors.
- Temporary Residency with Full-Time Experience: Workers must have accumulated 24 months of full-time employment (minimum of 30 hours per week) in Quebec within the past 36 months. The work must fall under the National Occupation Classification (NOC) TEER categories 0, A, or B, representing managerial, professional, or skilled trades. Employment under youth exchange programs like International Experience Canada (IEC) is also eligible, provided all other criteria are met.
- Legal Residency Status: Eligibility mandates that workers have legal status in Quebec during their application period, meaning they must hold a valid work permit or similar authorization.
- Language Proficiency: French language skills are essential, with applicants required to show a level 7 proficiency in spoken French, as per Quebec’s French proficiency scale. Acceptable proof includes language test results or evidence of secondary or post-secondary studies completed in French. Spouses of principal applicants must also meet a minimum of level 4 in spoken French, aligning with the province’s aim to promote linguistic integration for all family members.
- Eligible Work Experience: Only specific types of work experience count towards eligibility. For instance:
- Full-time roles (30+ hours weekly) within Quebec’s NOC TEER categories 0, A, and B qualify.
- Self-employment, part-time, and entrepreneurial roles are not eligible under PEQ criteria.
- Additionally, experience from work permits such as the Post-Graduation Work Permit may be applicable if acquired legally and meeting all other program requirements.
By setting clear expectations around employment and French proficiency, these criteria aim to ensure that applicants are ready for a successful transition into Quebec’s labor market and culture.
Eligibility Criteria for Quebec Graduates
Foreign students who have completed their studies in Quebec may qualify for the PEQ if they meet specific educational, work, and language requirements. This program offers a structured pathway for those who have invested in their education in Quebec and plan to stay and work within the province.
Key Requirements for Quebec Graduates:
- Commitment to Reside and Work in Quebec: Similar to temporary workers, graduates must intend to settle and secure employment within Quebec. This intention is fundamental, as Quebec prioritizes candidates who wish to integrate and contribute to the province’s workforce.
- Educational Background in Quebec:
- Graduates need to have completed a qualifying post-secondary program with at least 1,800 hours of study (approximately two years) from a recognized Quebec institution.
- The program must have been completed within the past 36 months, ensuring that the qualifications are current and relevant to Quebec’s job market.
- Work Experience Requirements:
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, or DEC holders: Must have 12 months of skilled work experience in NOC categories 0, A, or B and currently hold such a position at the time of application.
- DEP (Diplôme d’études professionnelles) holders: Required to have at least 18 months of work experience in NOC categories 0, A, B, or C. Notably, if the job is classified under category C, it must relate directly to the field of study.
- Internship work experience can count towards the work requirement, but only up to a maximum of three months, ensuring that students gain meaningful, professional experience.
- Legal Status: Applicants must maintain legal residency in Quebec during the application period, which means having a valid study or post-graduation work permit.
- Language Proficiency:
- Principal applicants must demonstrate level 7 spoken French proficiency and level 5 in written French on Quebec’s scale. This aligns with Quebec’s requirement for applicants to actively participate in its francophone society.
- Spouses of graduates must achieve a minimum of level 4 in spoken French, underscoring the province’s dedication to language integration within families.
- As of November 2024, graduates can qualify by showing a transcript demonstrating that 75% of their program’s credits were completed in French, including relevant theses if applicable.
- Financial Independence: Quebec requires applicants to show they can support themselves and any accompanying family members for at least three months, establishing financial self-sufficiency as a foundation for successful settlement.
The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) remains a crucial pathway for international students and foreign workers aiming to settle in Quebec permanently. With its latest updates, PEQ now places a stronger emphasis on language proficiency and equitable intake practices, aligning with Quebec’s cultural and economic objectives.
For further guidance and a successful PEQ application, consider consulting immigration resources or professional advisors to navigate recent changes effectively.