The Government of Canada has introduced a new temporary measure to assist foreign workers in Quebec during the processing of their permanent residence applications.

Under this initiative, certain foreign workers in Quebec will qualify for an expedited employer-specific work permit under the International Mobility Program (IMP).

Enhanced Work Permit for Quebec Workers

This permit enables eligible workers to continue working for their current employer for an additional 12 months.

To be eligible, a worker must have applied for permanent residence under Quebec’s Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) and received a request from Quebec to submit a Demande de Sélection Permanente (DSP).

Applicants must also possess or have recently held an employer-specific work permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or the International Mobility Program expiring between March 13 and December 31, 2026.

Eligible individuals can submit their applications on IRCC’s website until December 31, 2026, with expedited processing. It is advised to apply before the current permit expires to ensure continuous employment.

The primary objective of this temporary measure is to help workers maintain their employment status, ease their transition to permanent residence, and support Canada’s long-term economic requirements.

Note: A DSP is essential for obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), issued by the Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration (MIFI), allowing the holder to apply for Canadian PR.