Big news for families planning to reunite in Quebec: the province has officially hit its cap on certain family sponsorship applications under its immigration program. As of July 9, 2025, Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) confirmed it will no longer accept new applications to sponsor spouses, common-law or conjugal partners, and dependent children over 18 until June 25, 2026. If you’re affected, here’s exactly what this means for your immigration plans.
What’s Happening with Family Sponsorship in Quebec?
The family reunification program in Quebec operates under a strict annual quota. This year, the intake limit was reached earlier than many expected, prompting MIFI to suspend new sponsorship submissions for key family categories. Here’s who’s affected:
- Spouse
- Common-law or conjugal partner
- Dependent child aged 18 or over
Applications received after the quota was filled will not be processed; they’ll be returned to the sender, and the associated fees will be refunded.
Why Did Quebec Cap Family Sponsorships?
Quebec controls its own immigration intake within federal agreements, especially under the family reunification stream. The province allocates a specific number of applications it can manage efficiently. Hitting the cap signals that the system is at full capacity, likely due to high demand and limited resources.
By pausing the intake, MIFI aims to process existing applications thoroughly before reopening for new ones. This also allows time to assess and possibly restructure the program based on future priorities.
Who Can Still Apply?
Even though many sponsorship categories are temporarily closed, you may still be eligible to apply if you’re sponsoring:
- A dependent child under the age of 18
- A parent or grandparent
- Any other family member falling outside the restricted categories
- It’s essential to check your family member’s status before assuming you can’t apply.
Can I Reapply Later?
Yes, but you’ll need to wait. Anyone whose application was returned due to the cap can resubmit a new one after June 25, 2026, or sooner if MIFI reopens the application window earlier than expected.
Here’s what you should do in the meantime:
- Prepare documentation in advance
- Monitor MIFI announcements closely
- Consult a licensed immigration consultant to review your options
Quick View of Affected and Unaffected Categories
| Sponsorship Category | Status Until June 25, 2026 |
| Spouse | Closed |
| Common-law or Conjugal Partner | Closed |
| Dependent Child (18 and over) | Closed |
| Dependent Child (under 18) | Open |
| Parent or Grandparent | Open |
| Other Eligible Family Members | Open |
How the Family Reunification Program in Quebec Affects Your Plans
If your loved one falls under a closed sponsorship category, now is the time to review alternatives. For instance, federal immigration pathways may still offer a route for family reunification outside of Quebec’s jurisdiction. The family reunification program in Quebec may be on pause for many, but other doors might remain open.
What Should You Do Now?
If you’re impacted by this suspension:
- Don’t panic. This is a temporary pause, not a permanent ban.
- Keep updated via ImmigCanada and MIFI’s official site.
- Begin gathering or updating your documents so you’re ready when applications reopen.
- Book a consultation with a certified immigration professional to explore federal or provincial alternatives.
Quebec’s Family Reunification Program in Quebec on Hold, but There’s Hope
The family reunification program in Quebec may have reached its limit, but this isn’t the end of the road. With proper planning and guidance, you can still keep your immigration journey on track. Whether it means waiting for 2026 or exploring other pathways, being informed now means you’ll be ready later.
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