Quebec Temporarily Suspends Issuing CSQs for Permanent Residency
If you’re planning to immigrate to Quebec through the Regular Skilled Worker Program or the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), take note! Quebec has just announced a temporary suspension of issuing CSQs – Quebec Selection Certificates – for these two programs until June 30, 2025. This measure aims to control immigration numbers, clear the backlog of applications, and prepare for a new long-term immigration plan. 🎯
📈 Higher Immigration Target for 2025
Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge described this as a “courageous” decision to manage immigration numbers and prevent the permanent resident count from exceeding expected limits. This decision enables Quebec to welcome approximately 66,500 immigrants in 2025 — higher than the original plan. From 2025, Quebec aims to increase its immigration target, especially for the graduate stream, with the number of international students potentially reaching 15,000.
🌐 Reactions from the Opposition and Businesses
This decision has sparked considerable debate. Leaders from the Parti Québécois and business groups are concerned that this policy could undermine Quebec’s competitiveness in attracting international workers and students. They argue that Quebec businesses rely heavily on international labor to address workforce shortages, and this new policy could make Quebec less attractive in this regard.
If you’re an international student or hold a temporary work permit in Quebec, make the most of this time to develop your skills, gain work experience, and, importantly, improve your French. These factors could benefit you when immigration programs reopen, as Quebec plans to consider the number of people holding temporary study and work permits in its new policy.
