Quebec’s immigration framework has entered a new phase following the provincial government’s decision to reject Montreal’s request for flexibility after the abolition of the Quebec Experience Program. The move confirms that temporary residents who did not submit applications before the program’s cancellation will no longer have access to this pathway, regardless of how established they may be in the province.

For ImmigCanada, this decision marks a significant shift with direct consequences for foreign workers, graduates, and employers across Quebec.

What Montreal Asked for and Why It Was Denied

Montreal’s mayor and city council unanimously called for a grandfather clause that would have allowed temporary residents already living and working in Quebec to apply under the former Quebec Experience Program. City leaders argued that many workers had built lives in the province based on the program’s previous rules.

However, Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge confirmed that no flexibility would be granted. Applications submitted before the program’s elimination will still be processed, but the door is now closed to new applicants under that stream.

This firm stance reflects Quebec’s broader effort to recalibrate its immigration system around new priorities rather than transitional exceptions.

Shift to the Provincial Skilled Worker Program

with the Quebec experience program no longer available, affected workers must now apply through the provincial skilled worker selection program. Unlike the former program, which prioritized Quebec-based work or study experience, the new system relies more heavily on selection criteria such as skills, labour market alignment, and language ability.

From a regulated immigration consultant perspective, this change increases competition and complexity. Applicants who may have previously qualified automatically under Quebec experience rules must now meet broader selection benchmarks.

ImmigCanada immigration consulting services have already seen an increase in consultation requests from workers seeking clarity on their next steps.

Impact on Temporary Workers and Employers

The policy shift affects thousands of temporary residents who planned their future around the Quebec experience program. Many employers also face uncertainty, as retaining skilled workers now depends on navigating a more selective process.

As a certified Canadian immigration consultant, ImmigCanada emphasizes early planning. Workers must reassess eligibility, timelines, and alternative pathways to avoid status gaps or missed opportunities.

Professionals such as Eivy Joy Quito routinely advise clients to explore parallel options, including federal economic programs or other provincial nominee pathways, rather than relying on a single route.

Quebec’s Broader Immigration Direction

Quebec’s decision reflects a desire for tighter control over immigration volumes and selection criteria. While this may align with provincial planning objectives, it creates short-term disruption for individuals already contributing to Quebec’s economy.

From ImmigCanada’s standpoint, this reinforces the importance of professional guidance. Policy changes can occur quickly, and relying on outdated assumptions can place applicants at risk.

Quebec’s refusal to grant flexibility after ending the Quebec experience program represents a clear policy reset. Temporary residents must now adapt to a new selection framework with higher competition and different criteria. ImmigCanada continues to guide applicants through these changes with support from the best RCIC in Canada, helping clients identify viable pathways even as provincial rules evolve.