Quebec Opens PEQ Applications Again: Who Can Apply From July 2026?

Foreign workers and international graduates in Quebec, Canada, will once again have access to the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), with the province confirming a temporary reopening from July 2, 2026, to July 2, 2028.

The move restores a popular route to permanent residence that had been shut down since November 2025. For many international graduates and skilled workers, including Indians already living and working in Quebec, it creates another option beyond the province’s Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ).

What Is the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)?

The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) is a fast-track immigration pathway that allows eligible foreign workers and international graduates in Quebec to apply for permanent residence based on local work or study experience.

First Intake Opens July 2

Quebec will not accept applications continuously. Instead, it will use specific intake periods. The first intake window will run from July 2 to October 31, 2026 and is aimed at people whose immigration plans were disrupted when the PEQ closed last year.

To qualify during this first round, applicants must have already met PEQ requirements before November 19, 2025.

Key Eligibility Rules

Temporary Foreign Worker Stream

• At least two years of eligible work experience in Quebec
• Work experience must have been completed by November 19, 2025
• Occupation must fall under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 categories

Graduate Stream: Must have obtained an eligible Quebec diploma by November 19, 2025

French-language requirements: No changes announced

No Cap on Applications

Unlike many immigration programs, Quebec says there will be no limit on the number of applications accepted during the first intake period. Eligible applications submitted between July and October 2026 will be processed, with average processing times expected to be around six to seven months.

PSTQ Invitations to Slow Down

Quebec has also confirmed it will temporarily reduce invitations under the PSTQ while PEQ applications are being processed. For now, PSTQ invitations are expected to focus mainly on:

• Stream 2 candidates (TEER 4 and 5 occupations)
• Stream 4 candidates (Exceptional Talent)

The province may adjust the number of invitations from November 2026 depending on demand.

What This Means for Indian Applicants

Indian nationals already studying or working in Quebec stand to benefit the most, particularly those who met PEQ requirements before the program closed.

This also highlights a trend seen across Canada: provinces are increasingly prioritising candidates who already live, study, and work locally rather than relying heavily on overseas recruitment.

Travelobiz Take

We see this as a practical reopening rather than a policy U-turn. If you already qualified before the PEQ closed, this is a valuable second chance worth using quickly.