Immigration Announcement
Quebec Reaches Application Cap for Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Until 2026
On July 18, 2025, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) confirmed that it has reached its full quota for family reunification applications concerning parents and grandparents. This applies to the period between June 26, 2024, and June 25, 2026.
This decision directly affects those planning to apply under Quebec’s family reunification program, as the ministry will not accept any new sponsorship applications for parents, grandparents, or certain other family members until after June 25, 2026.
The good news is that this limit does not apply to all categories. Applications for minor dependent children and dependent adults with medical needs are still being accepted.
What This Means for Family Reunification in Quebec
The announcement makes it clear: if your application for sponsoring a parent or grandparent was received after the cap was met, it will be returned unprocessed. Also:
- The application fee will be refunded
- No exceptions will be made, even for those with urgent cases
- Families can apply again once the new intake period opens after June 25, 2026
This update may feel disappointing to many, but it’s part of Quebec’s broader strategy to manage immigration levels efficiently and ensure better support for newcomers.
Current Sponsorship Options Still Open
Not all doors are closed. Quebec continues to accept applications for:
| Eligible Sponsored Family Members | Status |
| Minor dependent children | Open |
| Minor children to be adopted | Open |
| Adult children with physical or mental conditions | Open |
| Parents and grandparents | Closed until June 2026 |
| Spouses, common-law, and conjugal partners (as of July 2025) | Closed |
If you’re still hoping to reunite with close family in Quebec, it’s important to explore current open streams and consider preparing early for future application windows.
Planning Ahead for 2026 and Beyond
Although Quebec’s family reunification program is temporarily capped for certain categories, it’s still possible to plan effectively:
- Stay updated with MIFI’s official announcements
- Prepare your documents and gather information ahead of the next intake
- Consider consulting licensed immigration professionals to explore alternatives
- Keep in mind that Quebec’s immigration system operates differently from other provinces
- By acting early, you can improve your chances once the intake window reopens in 2026.
Family Reunification in Quebec Still Holds Strong Opportunities
The temporary cap on Quebec’s family reunification program for parents and grandparents may delay plans, but it’s not the end of the road. There are still pathways available for sponsoring dependent children and others with special needs. For those who missed this round, now is the time to prepare for the next. Quebec remains committed to bringing families together, and the family reunification program will continue to be a vital part of its immigration goals.
