Quebec’s new premier, Christine Fréchette, faces mounting pressure to reinstate the fast-track immigration program. This comes amid rising concerns from families affected by delays in the immigration process.
Earlier this year, Fréchette promised to restore the Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ), which was abolished by the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government. The CAQ made this decision to control immigration volumes.
As of February 28, 2026, approximately 3,600 workers have been granted permanent residency under the In-Canada Workers Initiative. This initiative aims to fast-track permanent residency for up to 33,000 temporary foreign workers in 2026 and 2027.
The initiative specifically targets workers from various immigration streams, including the Provincial Nominee Program and Atlantic Immigration Program. Critics argue that it does not create a new pathway but merely accelerates existing applications.
The federal government plans to reduce the temporary resident population to below 5% of Canada’s total population by 2027. This goal raises concerns about labour shortages in Quebec.
Fréchette’s commitment comes as families express urgency for action. Tiffany Corti, a concerned parent, stated, “I don’t want promises; I want action.”
Yves Martineau echoed these sentiments, suggesting that if families cannot find solutions in Quebec, they may seek opportunities elsewhere—such as Halifax or Calgary.
Nadir Belaid reassured families that efforts would continue: “I want to make sure people know that we’re not giving up — we will see this through to the end.” However, uncertainties remain about the exact timeline for reopening the PEQ program.
No details have been shared on how the fast-tracking process will be communicated to applicants. The situation continues to develop as stakeholders await further announcements from Fréchette and her administration.