Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) | Fast-Track Immigration to Quebec

Navigate Quebec Immigration with the PEQ

The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), or Programme de l'expérience québécoise, offers a streamlined path to permanent residency for individuals who have successfully integrated into Quebec society through work or study. Designed to retain valuable talent, the PEQ allows eligible temporary foreign workers and international graduates to obtain a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), a crucial step towards becoming a permanent resident of Canada.

Important Note: As of November 19, 2025, both the Temporary Foreign Worker and Quebec Graduate streams of the PEQ are closed for new applications. The province has not yet clarified if or when application intake will resume. Samakav Immigration Corp. continues to monitor updates from the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI) and will provide guidance should the program reopen or changes occur. This page outlines the program's criteria for informational purposes.

Why Quebec is Unique for Immigration

Quebec holds a unique position within Canada's immigration framework due to the Quebec-Canada Agreement, which grants the province authority to select its economic immigrants. The PEQ was established to benefit from the contributions of individuals who are already familiar with Quebec's values and are well-integrated into its society and labour market.

Benefits of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)

• Fast-Track Processing: Historically, PEQ applications have aimed for processing within six months, significantly faster than many other immigration programs.
• Retention of Talent: The program prioritizes individuals who have already contributed to Quebec's economy and society through work or study.
• Clear Pathway to Permanent Residency: Obtaining a CSQ through the PEQ is a direct route to applying for permanent residency with the federal government.
• No Points System: Unlike some other skilled worker programs, the PEQ does not rely on a points-based selection grid, simplifying eligibility assessment for qualified candidates.

PEQ Eligibility Requirements (When Active)

The PEQ is designed for individuals with a strong intention to settle and work in Quebec. Eligibility is generally divided into two main streams:

1. Temporary Foreign Workers Stream (Currently Closed)

This stream was for individuals who had acquired eligible work experience in Quebec. Key requirements included:

• Work Experience: At least 24 months of full-time (30+ hours/week) work experience in Quebec within the 36 months preceding the application. This experience must have been in a TEER category 0, 1, 2, or 3 profession under the National Occupation Classification (NOC). Self-employment or entrepreneurial work was not considered.
• Legal Status: Maintained legal temporary worker status in Quebec.
• French Language Proficiency: Demonstrated spoken French proficiency equivalent to a Level 7 on the Quebec scale of French Proficiency levels, OR completion of at least three years of full-time secondary or post-secondary study entirely in French, OR meeting the French language requirements of a Quebec professional order.
• Spousal Language: Accompanying spouses needed to demonstrate spoken French proficiency equivalent to a Level 4.

2. Quebec Graduates Stream (Currently Closed)

This stream was for international students who completed eligible studies in Quebec. Requirements typically included:

• Quebec Diploma: Obtained an eligible degree or diploma from a recognized Quebec educational institution within the 36 months prior to application.
• Study Duration: Studied in Quebec for at least 1,800 hours (two years) and maintained legal status for at least half the length of the program.
• Work Experience (Post-Graduation):
  • For Masters, Bachelors, or DEC holders: 12 months of work experience in a TEER category 0, 1, 2, or 3 profession, and holding such a job at the time of application.
  • For DEP holders: 18 months of work experience in a TEER category 0, 1, 2, or 3 profession, and holding such a job at the time of application. Work in a TEER category 4 or 5 profession was only considered if related to the DEP.
  • Mandatory internships could count for up to 3 months of work experience.
• French Language Proficiency: Demonstrated spoken French proficiency equivalent to a Level 7 and written French proficiency equivalent to a Level 5 on the Quebec scale. As of November 23, 2024, principal applicants must show a final transcript attesting to successful completion of at least three years of full-time secondary or post-secondary study completed entirely in French, OR an eligible Quebec study program completed entirely in French where 75% of courses/credits were in French.
• Spousal Language: Accompanying spouses needed to demonstrate spoken French proficiency equivalent to a Level 4.
• Financial Self-Sufficiency: Ability to be financially self-sufficient.

The PEQ Application Process (When Active)

Applications for the PEQ were submitted exclusively online through the Arrima portal. The general steps included:

1. Complete Application Form: Select and fill out the appropriate permanent selection application form.
2. Gather Supporting Documents: Prepare all required documents as specified in the application guide.
3. Create Arrima Profile: Establish your profile on the Arrima platform.
4. Submit Application: Upload your complete application package for permanent selection via Arrima.
5. Pay Fees: Remit the required processing fees.

MIFI aimed to process complete applications within six months. Incomplete applications were returned.

Partner with Samakav Immigration Corp.

While the PEQ is currently closed for new applications, Samakav Immigration Corp. remains your trusted partner for all Canadian and Quebec immigration matters. Our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCIC-IRB R523726) are committed to providing accurate, up-to-date information and expert guidance. Should the PEQ reopen or new programs emerge, we will be ready to assist you in assessing your eligibility and navigating the application process efficiently.

Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your immigration goals and explore alternative pathways to living and working in Quebec or other Canadian provinces.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)?

The PEQ (Programme de l'expérience québécoise) is a Quebec immigration program that historically offered a fast-track pathway to permanent residency for eligible temporary foreign workers and international graduates who have integrated into Quebec society through work or study. It leads to a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ).

Is the PEQ program currently accepting applications?

No, as of November 19, 2025, both the Temporary Foreign Worker and Quebec Graduate streams of the PEQ are closed for new applications. The province has not yet announced if or when the program will reopen.

How does the PEQ differ from the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)?

The PEQ is a fast-track program based on recent work or study experience in Quebec, without a points system. The QSWP (now often referred to as the Regular Skilled Worker Program) is a points-based program for skilled workers worldwide, with broader eligibility criteria and typically longer processing times.

What were the main eligibility streams for the PEQ?

The two main streams were the Temporary Foreign Workers stream, for individuals with eligible work experience in Quebec, and the Quebec Graduates stream, for international students who completed eligible studies in the province.

Was French language proficiency required for the PEQ?

Yes, strong French language proficiency was a key requirement for both PEQ streams, with specific levels for spoken and written French, or proof of French-language education in Quebec or elsewhere.

Can family members be included in a PEQ application?

Yes, when the program was active, accompanying spouses or common-law partners and dependent children could be included in a PEQ application. Spouses also had a French language proficiency requirement.