Immigration Announcement
Quebec Changes the Permanent Residence Process for Recognized Refugees and Protected Persons
The Government of Quebec has updated its guidance for recognized refugees and persons in need of protection who want to become permanent residents while living in the province.
The updated process clarifies an important step for eligible individuals: applicants should submit their application for permanent selection to Quebec and their application for permanent residence to the federal government at the same time after receiving a positive protection decision.
The change provides clearer direction for recognized refugees and protected persons navigating the immigration process in Quebec.
Who Is Eligible Under Quebec’s Updated Guidance?
The updated guidance applies to individuals living in Quebec who have been recognized as refugees or persons in need of protection in Canada.
This generally includes people who have received:
- A positive decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada; or
- Approval of a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment application by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
Once an eligible person receives a positive decision, they can begin the next stage of their immigration journey toward permanent residence.
Two Applications Can Now Move Forward at the Same Time
Under Quebec’s updated guidance, eligible applicants should complete two separate immigration processes simultaneously.
The first step is to apply for permanent selection with the Government of Quebec.
This application is necessary to obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate, commonly known as a CSQ.
The second step is to submit an application for permanent residence to the Government of Canada.
Applicants do not need to wait until their CSQ has been issued before submitting their federal permanent residence application.
This clarification may help eligible applicants begin the federal process without unnecessary delays.
What Is a Quebec Selection Certificate?
A Quebec Selection Certificate, or CSQ, is an important document for people applying through Quebec’s immigration system.
For recognized refugees and protected persons, the permanent selection application allows Quebec to assess and confirm their selection for immigration to the province.
The CSQ may also provide access to certain services available in Quebec.
According to the updated guidance, approved applicants and eligible family members in Quebec can receive their Quebec Selection Certificates once their permanent selection application has been approved.
Quebec Reports Processing Times of 25 to 60 Days
Quebec currently reports processing times of approximately 25 to 60 days for permanent selection applications submitted by recognized refugees and persons in need of protection.
As of the September 8, 2026 update, Quebec reported that it was processing applications received on August 18, 2026.
However, the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration has also stated that it is receiving an exceptionally high volume of applications.
Processing times may therefore change depending on application volumes and administrative capacity.
Applicants should regularly check official Quebec immigration updates for the latest information.
What Documents Must Be Included in the Quebec Application?
Applicants must complete the required permanent selection form and provide the requested supporting documents.
The application must include relevant family members, including:
- A spouse or common-law partner;
- Dependent children; and
- Where applicable, dependent children of dependent children.
Family members may include individuals living in Quebec as well as certain family members living outside Canada.
Applicants should carefully review the document requirements before submitting their application to ensure that photocopies and supporting documents are complete and legible.
Incomplete applications may affect processing.
Family Members May Have Different CSQ Procedures
The process can differ for family members who are not recognized as refugees or protected persons or who live outside Canada.
These family members may not receive their Quebec Selection Certificates at the same time as the principal applicant.
Additional steps may be required later in the permanent residence process.
Applicants should therefore ensure that all eligible family members are properly declared in their immigration applications.
Do Refugees Need a Valid Work Permit in Quebec?
Yes, individuals who want to continue working in Quebec must maintain valid authorization to work until they receive permanent residence.
The Government of Quebec emphasizes that work permits are issued for limited periods.
Applicants must renew their work authorization through IRCC when necessary while waiting for a final permanent residence decision.
Receiving a CSQ does not automatically replace the need to maintain valid work authorization before permanent residence is granted.
What Support Is Available Before Receiving a CSQ?
Recognized refugees and protected persons may be able to access several integration and settlement services in Quebec after receiving a positive protection decision.
Depending on their circumstances, available support may include:
- Government assistance programs;
- Family support benefits;
- French-language training;
- Financial support for eligible language programs;
- Education for children;
- Legal aid for eligible individuals;
- Employment assistance;
- Qualification recognition services; and
- Integration programs.
These services are designed to help newcomers establish themselves and participate in Quebec society.
Additional Benefits Available After Receiving a CSQ
Once eligible applicants receive their Quebec Selection Certificate, they may gain access to additional services depending on their circumstances.
These can include access to Quebec health insurance through RAMQ and participation in provincial immigrant integration services.
Applicants may also become eligible for additional education and settlement opportunities.
Eligibility for specific services can depend on an individual’s immigration status and personal circumstances.
What Does the Updated Process Mean for Applicants?
The most important message for recognized refugees and protected persons in Quebec is that they should not wait for their CSQ before beginning the federal permanent residence application.
Submitting both applications at the appropriate time can help ensure that the immigration process moves forward according to the current guidance.
Because immigration rules and processing times can change, applicants should always rely on the latest information from Quebec immigration authorities and IRCC.
For complex situations involving family members, work authorization or immigration status, professional advice from an authorized representative may also be helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can recognized refugees apply for Quebec permanent selection and federal permanent residence at the same time?
Yes. Eligible applicants living in Quebec should submit their Quebec permanent selection application and federal permanent residence application simultaneously after receiving a positive decision.
2. Do applicants need to wait for their CSQ before applying for permanent residence?
No. Applicants do not need to wait for the Quebec Selection Certificate before submitting their permanent residence application to the Government of Canada.
3. How long does Quebec permanent selection take for recognized refugees?
Quebec currently reports processing times of approximately 25 to 60 days, although processing times can change.
4. Do protected persons need a work permit while waiting for permanent residence?
Yes. Individuals who want to work in Quebec must maintain valid work authorization until permanent residence is granted.
5. Can family members be included in a Quebec permanent selection application?
Yes. Applicants must include eligible family members, including spouses, common-law partners and dependent children, according to the application requirements.
