PEQ Reopening July 2, 2026:
Your Complete Guide to Quebec Permanent Residence
Quebec's fastest immigration pathway is back. The Programme de l'expérience québécoise (PEQ) officially reopens on July 2, 2026 for a temporary two-year period. Here is everything you need to know to apply and obtain your Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ).
What is the PEQ and why is this reopening a major opportunity?
The Programme de l'expérience québécoise (PEQ) is one of the fastest and most accessible pathways to permanent residence in Quebec. It is designed for people who have already studied or worked in Quebec and wish to settle there permanently.
After being suspended, the PEQ is being reactivated for a temporary two-year period, starting July 2, 2026. This reopening represents a unique opportunity for thousands of temporary residents in Quebec to obtain their CSQ through a streamlined process.
Unlike the Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ), which operates through draws, the PEQ is a direct process: if you meet the criteria, you can submit your application and be selected.
📅 PEQ 2026 Reopening Timeline
🎓 Stream 1 — PEQ Quebec Graduates
This stream is for people who have obtained a recognized Quebec diploma and wish to settle permanently in Quebec.
Reception criteria (to submit an application)
- ✅ Residing in Quebec at the time of application
- ✅ Having obtained an eligible diploma in Quebec by November 19, 2025 at the latest
Eligible diplomas
Selection conditions (to obtain the CSQ)
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Recent diploma | Obtained within 3 years prior to the application |
| Study stay | Resided in Quebec to study, for at least half the duration of the program |
| Intention | Intend to settle and work in Quebec |
| French (written) | Level 5 on the Quebec Competency Scale |
| French (oral) | Level 7 on the Quebec Competency Scale |
| Spouse | French oral level 4 |
| Quebec values | Demonstrate knowledge of the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms |
| Return scholarship | Must not have held a scholarship with a mandatory return-home clause |
| Financial self-sufficiency | Commit to covering essential needs |
💼 Stream 2 — PEQ Temporary Foreign Workers
This stream is for temporary workers who have gained qualifying work experience in Quebec.
Reception criteria (to submit an application)
- ✅ Having acquired qualifying Quebec work experience by November 19, 2025 at the latest
- ✅ At least 2 years of experience in a TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3 occupation (NOC)
- ✅ Holding such a position at the time of application
Selection conditions (to obtain the CSQ)
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Intention | Intend to settle and work in Quebec |
| French (oral) | Level 7 on the Quebec Competency Scale |
| Spouse | French oral level 4 |
| Quebec values | Knowledge of the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms |
| Financial self-sufficiency | Commit to covering essential needs for a minimum of 3 months after obtaining permanent resident status |
❓ Reception Criteria vs. Selection Conditions: What's the difference?
📋 Reception Criteria
Determine who can submit a PEQ application between July 2 and October 31, 2026.
→ If you don't meet them, your application will be rejected upfront.
✅ Selection Conditions
Determine who will be selected and receive the CSQ.
→ You may be allowed to apply but still be rejected if you don't meet all selection conditions.
🚀 Ready to apply for PEQ?
The PEQ opens July 2, 2026 for only 4 months. Don't miss this rare opportunity. Our team specializes in PEQ applications — we prepare your file from A to Z to maximize your chances of obtaining your CSQ.
❓ FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions about PEQ Reopening
Can I apply for PEQ if I obtained my diploma after November 19, 2025?
No. The reception criterion requires that your diploma was obtained by November 19, 2025 at the latest. If you obtained your diploma after that date, you cannot apply during this first period.
Does my TEER 4 job qualify me for PEQ?
No. Only TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3 occupations provide access to the Workers stream of the PEQ. TEER 4 and 5 occupations continue to be targeted through reduced PSTQ invitations.
What happens when the period closes on October 31?
New periods could be opened depending on the volume of applications received. However, nothing is guaranteed. The best strategy is to apply as soon as the program opens on July 2.
How do I submit my PEQ application?
Applications are submitted through Quebec's Arrima portal. You must create a profile, gather your documents, and submit your application online.
What level of French is required for the PEQ?
For both streams, you must have an oral level of 7 on the Quebec Competency Scale. For the Graduates stream, a written level of 5 is also required. Your spouse must have a minimum oral level of 4.
Can I apply for PEQ if I am currently outside Quebec?
For the Graduates stream, you must be residing in Quebec at the time of application. For the Workers stream, you must be employed in a qualifying position at the time of application. Being outside Quebec would make you ineligible.