The new eligibility criteria announced by the government of Quebec for the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) have taken effect as of July 22. The PEQ enjoyed strong popularity since the time it was launched in 2010 and a majority of skilled workers were selected through this stream.

The changes to the PEQ that affect international students and temporary foreign workers are:

Reduced duration of work experience required for workers

The duration of the work experience required for temporary workers is now 24 months. This change will promote the retention of foreign workers in Quebec businesses and reduce the administrative procedures for employers, particularly with regard to the need to renew permits.

A transitional measure for foreign students already in Quebec

To respond to the concerns of foreign students in Quebec, a transitional measure will apply for those who have obtained a diploma eligible for the PEQ, or who will obtain it by December 31, 2020. Those who graduate with a diploma before January 1, 2021, will have their applications processed as per the conditions before the new rules came into effect.

Flexibilities for the duration and work experience required for students

The work experience requirement for students has also changed. The work experience acquired during a compulsory internship as part of the study program will be considered in the calculation of work experience, up to a maximum of three months of full-time work. In addition, the work experience required of holders of a vocational diploma has been reduced to 18 months.

While recognizing the contribution of foreign students and temporary workers to Quebec society, the Minister of Immigration, Francization and Integration, Ms. Nadine Girault stated that improvements to PEQ will enable the government of Quebec's to take a balanced approach towards the provinces social and economic challenges.