Quebec has announced a major policy shift affecting long-term temporary foreign workers. Under new rules released by the Gouvernement du Québec, workers applying for a Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) after completing three years of employment in the province will need to demonstrate Level 4 spoken French proficiency.

The requirement will apply to applications submitted on or after December 17, 2028, giving current workers time to prepare.

Who the New French Requirement Applies To

The policy targets temporary foreign workers under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program who:

• Have completed three years of work in Quebec
• Are applying for temporary selection
• Require a CAQ to continue working

The language standard is based on the Échelle québécoise des niveaux de compétence en français, which assesses functional spoken communication.

Groups Exempt From the French Requirement

Certain workers will remain exempt, including:

• Agricultural foreign workers
• Employees of foreign political offices
• International staff of recognized non-governmental organizations

These exemptions reflect sector-specific realities where language integration requirements differ.

Transitional Measures for Current Workers

Quebec has introduced a transition period to support those already in the province. French verification will not apply to CAQ applications submitted before December 17, 2028.

This window allows workers to:

• Enroll in French courses
• Improve workplace communication
• Meet future renewal requirements

The policy aims to strengthen linguistic integration without disrupting existing employment.

Updated CAQ Application Process

Applicants must complete the new version of the Application for Temporary Selection form dated December 2025. Forms must be:

• Filled clearly
• Signed by hand
• Sent directly to the employer

Employers then submit the application to the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration.

Required Documents and Fees

Applicants must provide their employer with:

• Signed employment contract
• Passport copies
• Updated CV
• Diplomas and transcripts
• Proof of relevant work experience

Fee Item	Amount
Temporary foreign worker CAQ	$233 CAD

Fees must be paid in full using approved methods such as credit cards, bank drafts, or certified cheques.

What Happens After Approval

If the job offer and CAQ application are approved, the worker receives:

• CAQ attestation letter
• Confirmation from Quebec authorities and Service Canada

These documents are required to apply for a work permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Why This Policy Matters

Quebec continues to emphasize French as a workplace and social foundation. This requirement signals a long-term direction toward stronger language integration for temporary residents who remain in the province.

Workers planning extended stays should begin preparing early to avoid future renewal challenges.

The new French language requirement for temporary foreign workers marks a clear policy direction for Quebec’s labour market. With a long transition period in place, workers have time to prepare, but early planning remains essential. Understanding eligibility, documentation, and language expectations can prevent delays and refusals.