The Canadian government has introduced a new short-term initiative to support foreign nationals working in Quebec who are in the process of applying for permanent residency (PR). This measure ensures eligible workers can remain employed without interruption while their applications move through the system.
What Is the New Measure?
Under this temporary policy, select foreign workers based in Quebec can obtain a fast-tracked, employer-specific work permit through the International Mobility Program (IMP). This permit extends their authorization to work with their existing employer by up to 12 additional months.
The announcement was made on March 13 by Joël Lightbound — Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant — on behalf of Immigration Minister Lena Diab.
Who Qualifies for This Extension?
To be considered eligible, a foreign worker must meet all three of the following conditions:
- They must have already filed a PR application under Quebec’s new Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ)
- They must have received an official request from Quebec to complete a Demande de Sélection Permanente (DSP)
- They must currently hold — or have recently held — an employer-specific work permit under either the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or the International Mobility Program, with an expiry date falling between March 13 and December 31, 2026
How and When to Apply
Eligible workers can submit their applications directly through IRCC’s official website, with the deadline set for December 31, 2026. Applications will benefit from expedited processing, and workers are strongly advised to apply before their current permit expires to avoid any gap in employment authorization.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters
The federal government has framed this initiative as a bridge measure — one that keeps skilled workers employed, smooths the path toward permanent residency, and helps address Canada’s long-term labour market needs. By reducing uncertainty during the often lengthy PR process, the policy benefits both workers and Canadian employers who depend on their continued contribution.
Understanding Key Terms
What is a DSP? A Demande de Sélection Permanente is a formal application required to obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ).
What is a CSQ? Issued by Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration (MIFI), a CSQ officially confirms that an individual has been selected to settle in Quebec. Once a CSQ is in hand, the applicant can proceed to submit a federal PR application to Canadian immigration authorities.
Conclusion
This targeted temporary measure reflects Ottawa’s recognition that processing delays should not force skilled foreign workers out of the Canadian labour market. By offering a streamlined, employer-specific 12-month extension, the government is providing a practical safety net for Quebec-based workers navigating the PR pathway. Those who qualify should act promptly and apply well ahead of their permit’s expiry date to ensure uninterrupted employment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I change employers after receiving this extended permit? No. This is an employer-specific work permit, meaning it ties you to your current employer for the duration of the extension.
Q: Does this permit guarantee permanent residency? No. It is a temporary bridge measure while your PR application is under review. Approval of the PR application is subject to standard assessment criteria.
Q: What if my permit has already expired before March 13, 2026? You must have held an employer-specific work permit expiring on or after March 13, 2026 to be eligible. Expired permits before that date do not qualify.
Q: Where exactly do I apply? Through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website before December 31, 2026.