Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) is being restored as a beneficial immigration pathway for those who have already worked or studied in Quebec and wish to permanently settle in the province.
Note: The PEQ was officially closed on November 19, 2025, under Quebec’s 2026–2029 Immigration Plan. However, Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette announced on May 5, 2026, that the PEQ will reopen for a two-year period. Immigration Minister François Bonnardel is responsible for implementation. Exact eligibility rules, application start date, and annual quotas had not been formally confirmed at the time of writing (May 2026). Applicants should monitor the MIFI website and the Arrima portal for official updates.
PEQ (Programme de l’expérience Québécoise)offers a fast-track route to a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) for Quebec graduates and candidates who have work experience in Quebec. This certificate is granted by the Quebec provincial government as authorization to apply for permanent residency. Through PEQ, the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) aims to benefit the province by retaining people who have already lived here and are already well-integrated with Quebec’s values.
Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) Streams
The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) opens its doors to candidates equipped with proficiency in both English and French, creating an inclusive space for diverse language capabilities. Tailored for individuals with valid work experience in Quebec, PEQ embraces those who have pursued their studies within the enriching realms of Quebec’s institutions.
PEQ welcomes candidates from two distinctive streams, fostering a dynamic and accessible immigration avenue:
- Temporary Foreign Workers: For those who have contributed their skills as temporary workers in Quebec, PEQ provides a pathway to transition from temporary to permanent residency.
- Québec Graduates: Graduates from Quebec’s esteemed institutions find a dedicated route through PEQ, recognizing and rewarding their commitment to academic excellence within the province.
The PEQ’s reopening (announced May 5, 2026) is expected to operate within Quebec’s annual cap of 45,000 permanent residents. Premier Fréchette has indicated that criteria will be relaxed compared to recent standards, with priority for those who already speak French, are already integrated, and live in Quebec’s regions.
Eligibility and General Requirements
Quebec Experience Program
The PEQ opens doors to Canadian permanent residence by granting applicants a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), or Quebec Selection Certificate.
To qualify for this esteemed certificate, you must meet the following general requirements:
- Intention to Settle: It is essential to have a sincere intention to settle in Quebec to secure employment.
- Temporary Residence Compliance: Applicants must have temporarily resided in Quebec while adhering to the conditions of their stay, primarily focusing on work or study goals.
- French Language Proficiency: A demonstration of advanced intermediate oral French proficiency is mandatory. This also applies to accompanying spouses.
- Financial Responsibility: Candidates need to prove their ability to support themselves, their spouse or de facto spouse, and dependent children for a minimum of 3 months.
- Age and Passport: Being at least 18 years old and holding a valid passport are prerequisites.
- French language proficiency: can be showcased through various methods, including accepted French language tests, transcripts attesting to full-time study in French, or even a professional license from a Quebec order.
Related Links:
Quebec Skilled Worker
Expression of Interest System
Arrima Portal
Quebec Immigration Pilot Programs
Quebec Immigration Levels Plan
For Temporary Foreign Workers
To qualify under the Temporary Foreign Worker stream, candidates must have:
- At least 24 months of authorized work in Quebec within the last 36 months (in an eligible occupation)
- Advanced intermediate oral proficiency in French
- A valid temporary residence status in Canada
Note: Exact work experience thresholds and eligible occupations under the reopened PEQ have not yet been confirmed by MIFI as of May 2026. The previous 24-month requirement and occupation restrictions may be revised. Consult an RCIC for current requirements once formally published.
For Quebec Graduates
To qualify under the Quebec Graduate stream, candidates must have:
- A diploma from a Quebec educational institution at the college or university level (DEC, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate)
- Advanced intermediate oral proficiency in French
A valid temporary residence status in Canada
While the PEQ relaunch date has been announced by Premier Fréchette (May 5, 2026), formal application intake had not yet opened as of the time of writing. Candidates who were previously counting on the PEQ or who had applications in processing before November 19, 2025 are encouraged to:
- Monitor the Arrima portal and MIFI’s official website for the PEQ relaunch date
- Prepare all supporting documents (proof of employment, diplomas, language test results, proof of residence)
- Consult an RCIC to evaluate whether PEQ, PSTQ, or another pathway is best suited for your profile
- Consider submitting a Declaration of Interest through Arrima under the PSTQ as a parallel strategy
The Quebec Experience Class Program (PEQ) stands as an excellent pathway for individuals aspiring to make Quebec their permanent home. By recognizing the significance of language proficiency and prior work experience within the province, PEQ streamlines the process toward Canadian permanent residence.
The program’s priority status ensures a swifter application journey, offering a unique opportunity to integrate into Quebec’s vibrant society and contribute to its diverse communities.
If you’re looking to embark on your journey toward Canadian immigration through the Quebec Experience Program, be sure to explore the specifics of each applicant category and take advantage of the transitional measures in place. With a strong foundation in French proficiency and a commitment to your career and studies, the PEQ could be your key to a fulfilling life in beautiful Quebec.
To know more about PEQ or to seek guidance for successfully processing the PEQ application, you can contact our immigration consultants. Our RCICs hold immense experience in the immigration domain and have helped numerous candidates gain Canadian immigration without hassle.
FAQs for Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
Q1. What is the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)?
The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) is a fantastic immigration opportunity for individuals who have already worked or studied in Quebec and wish to make it their permanent home. It offers a fast-track route to obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate (QSC), a key step in the process of becoming a permanent resident of Quebec.
Q2. Who is eligible for the PEQ?
The PEQ is suitable for candidates with proficiency in English and French, valid Quebec work experience, and those who have studied in Quebec. There are two streams under PEQ: one for Temporary Foreign Workers and another for Québec Graduates.
Q3. What are the general requirements for the PEQ?
To qualify for a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), applicants must have a sincere intention to settle in Quebec, comply with temporary residence conditions, demonstrate advanced intermediate oral French proficiency, prove financial responsibility, be at least 18 years old, and hold a valid passport.
Q4. What specific requirements apply to international students under the Quebec Experience Program?
International students must have temporary Quebec residency for study, reside in Quebec for at least half the duration of their study program, hold a recognized Quebec diploma, and fulfill specific work experience requirements based on their diploma
