A major update has been announced for Canadian immigration applicants residing in Quebec. Starting July 30, 2025, Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francisation et Intégration (MIFI) will prioritize applications under the Programme régulier des travailleurs qualifiés (PRTQ), also known as the Regular Skilled Worker Program. This change applies to temporary foreign workers and international students who are already living, studying, or working in Quebec.
This decision means thousands of individuals who have already built their lives in Quebec will see their applications processed faster, supporting quicker integration and reducing waiting times for permanent residency.
What Is the PRTQ Program?
The Programme régulier des travailleurs qualifiés (PRTQ) is one of Quebec’s primary pathways for skilled immigration. Unlike employer-specific programs, the PRTQ allows eligible candidates to apply for permanent selection based on their education, work experience, and language skills.
This program is popular among international students and temporary foreign workers who have already adapted to Quebec’s lifestyle and workforce needs. By prioritizing these applicants, Quebec is recognizing their contribution to the province’s economy and society.
Why the Sudden Prioritization?
Quebec aims to process these specific applications quickly to ensure:
- Faster integration: Individuals already living and contributing to Quebec can transition to permanent residence sooner.
- Economic stability: Skilled professionals and students are essential for Quebec’s growing industries.
- Administrative efficiency: Applications under this priority category are expected to receive final decisions or notices of refusal by December 31, 2025.
Cases requiring additional review (those issued with a notice of intent to refuse) will be finalized in early 2026.
Who Will Benefit from This Change?
The beneficiaries of this new approach are:
- Temporary Foreign Workers: Professionals holding valid work permits and already contributing to Quebec’s labor force.
- International Students: Graduates from Quebec institutions who intend to remain in the province.
This policy ensures that individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to Quebec through work or study can secure a permanent future more efficiently.
Processing Timeline at a Glance
| Timeline | Action |
| July 30, 2025 | Priority review begins for eligible PRTQ applications |
| By Dec 31, 2025 | Decision issued (approval, refusal, or notice of intent to refuse) |
| Q1 2026 | Final review for applicants who responded to notices |
How to Prepare if You’re Eligible
If you are a temporary foreign worker or student applying under the PRTQ, now is the time to make sure your application is strong and complete:
- Ensure all required documents are updated, including language test results and proof of experience.
- Respond promptly to any requests from the Ministry.
- Seek professional guidance to avoid errors or delays.
The Bigger Picture for Canadian Immigration
This initiative highlights Quebec’s effort to attract and retain talent while making immigration more responsive to local needs. It also signals a broader trend in Canadian immigration, where applicants already established within a province or territory are given faster processing opportunities.
The prioritization of PRTQ applications for foreign workers and students already living in Quebec is a strategic move that benefits both the province and applicants. By accelerating permanent residence processing, Quebec ensures skilled talent remains within the province and contributes to its long-term economic growth.
For individuals aspiring to build their lives in Quebec, this development marks an important opportunity in the Canadian immigration landscape.
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