Hundreds of protesters gathered in Montreal this week to voice their strong opposition to the Quebec government's decision to terminate the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), a popular immigration pathway that has helped thousands of international students and temporary workers obtain permanent residency in the province.
What Was the Quebec Experience Program?
The Quebec Experience Program, commonly known as PEQ, was established as an accelerated immigration pathway for individuals who had already established themselves in Quebec. The program specifically targeted international students who had completed eligible programs of study in Quebec and temporary foreign workers who had gained significant work experience in the province.
The program allowed applicants to fast-track their permanent residency applications, often processing them within six months compared to the standard processing times that could extend beyond a year through other immigration streams. This made it particularly attractive for individuals who had already invested time and resources into building their lives in Quebec.
Protesters Voice Their Concerns
At the demonstration organized in Montreal, participants held signs expressing their frustration and disappointment with the government's decision. Many shared personal stories about how the program had been central to their life plans and future in Quebec.
One protester, who asked to remain anonymous, told reporters, "I wanted to stay in Quebec. I completed my studies here, I found employment in my field, and I was counting on the PEQ to regularize my status. Now, with the program cancelled, I don't know what my future holds."
The protest highlighted the uncertainty now facing thousands of international students and temporary workers who had structured their immigration strategies around the PEQ. Many had chosen Quebec specifically because of this program and now find themselves in legal limbo.
Government's Rationale and Alternative Pathways
While the Quebec government has not provided detailed explanations for terminating the program, immigration analysts suggest the decision aligns with the province's broader immigration policy reforms aimed at better aligning immigrant selection with labor market needs.
Quebec's Immigration Ministry has indicated that alternative pathways will remain available through the Regular Skilled Worker Program and other economic immigration streams. However, these programs typically involve more complex selection criteria, longer processing times, and increased competition.
The cancellation of PEQ represents a significant shift in Quebec's approach to retaining international talent that the province has already invested in through its education system and workforce integration programs.
Immigration lawyers and student advocacy groups have expressed concern that the move could make Quebec less attractive to international students and skilled workers at a time when the province faces significant labor shortages across multiple sectors.
