Immigration Announcement
Quebec Speeds Up PRTQ Immigration Decisions for Temporary Workers and Students
Big news for those living in Quebec on a temporary basis! On July 30, 2025, the Quebec government officially began prioritizing applications for permanent selection under the Programme régulier des travailleurs qualifiés (PRTQ) — specifically from temporary foreign workers and international students already in the province.
This change follows a ministerial order published in the Gazette officielle du Québec on July 23, 2025, aimed at speeding up the immigration process for individuals who have already started adapting to life in Quebec. It’s a significant move that signals Quebec’s intent to retain skilled individuals who contribute to its society and economy.
Faster Immigration Decisions by December 2025
The Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) has committed to processing all pending applications submitted under the Regular Skilled Worker Program by December 31, 2025. Here’s what that means for applicants:
- A final decision to select, reject, or refuse the application will be made; OR
- A notice of intent to refuse or reject the application will be issued under the Act respecting administrative justice.
For those receiving a notice, responses submitted within the given timeframe will be reviewed, with final decisions expected in early 2026.
Why Quebec Is Doing This
This prioritization is not random — it’s a strategic move. By accelerating the selection process for applicants who are already in Quebec, the province aims to:
- Retain talent that has already integrated into the labor market
- Support economic growth through skilled immigration
- Reduce processing backlogs and improve transparency
This shift also sends a clear message: If you’re studying or working in Quebec, your PRTQ application will now be at the front of the line.
Who Benefits Most?
If you belong to any of these categories, this update applies to you:
- Temporary Foreign Workers living and working in Quebec
- International students with valid study permits or post-graduation work permits
- Applicants who submitted their PRTQ application and are currently residing in Quebec
This is your opportunity to move forward more quickly toward permanent residency.
The Numbers Behind It
While MIFI hasn’t released exact figures, internal sources suggest thousands of PRTQ applications were pending review. With this new prioritization, many are expected to receive final decisions in less than six months — a major improvement compared to earlier wait times, which often exceeded 12 to 18 months.
PRTQ Application: What You Should Do Now
If you’ve submitted your application:
- Make sure your file is up to date
- Watch your inbox for communications from MIFI
- Respond promptly if you receive a notice of intention to reject or refuse
Being proactive can make a big difference in speeding up your process.
A Boost for Quebec’s Skilled Immigration Goals
The fast-tracking of PRTQ applications for temporary residents in Quebec is a clear signal of the province’s focus on skilled talent retention. With decisions expected by December 2025 and follow-ups finalized in early 2026, this is a promising step forward for immigrants aiming to build their future in Quebec. For more updates on your PRTQ application or other Canada immigration programs, connect with Canada Immigration News today.
