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Quebec Experience Class System
QUEBEC EXPERIENCE CLASS SYSTEM
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Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
The Quebec Experience Program (Programme de l’expérience québécoise – PEQ) is one of the most well-known Quebec immigration pathways for individuals who have studied or worked in Quebec and wish to settle in the province permanently. Often compared to the federal Canadian Experience Class, the PEQ is Quebec’s own experience-based selection program.
The PEQ is designed to retain temporary residents already integrated into Quebec society, particularly those with Quebec education, Quebec work experience, and strong French-language ability. Unlike the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP), the PEQ is not a points-based system, but eligibility depends on meeting strict regulatory requirements.
As of 2026, the PEQ remains active but has become significantly more selective, especially for international graduates. Applicants must now plan carefully, as eligibility is no longer automatic after graduation.
What Is the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)?
The PEQ allows eligible temporary residents to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), which is the first step toward Canadian permanent residence through Quebec.
Once a CSQ is issued:
- The applicant applies to the federal government for permanent residence
- Medical, security, and background checks are completed
- Permanent resident status is granted upon approval
The PEQ focuses on:
- Quebec-based education or work experience
- Advanced French-language proficiency
- Proven intent to live and integrate in Quebec
Who Can Apply Under the PEQ?
There are two main streams under the Quebec Experience Program:
- Quebec Graduate (Student) Stream
- Temporary Foreign Worker Stream
Each stream has its own eligibility requirements, but French proficiency and Quebec integration are mandatory for both.
PEQ Graduate (Student) Stream – Updated Requirements
The PEQ graduate stream is intended for international students who completed eligible studies in Quebec and later gained Quebec work experience.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Intend to settle and work permanently in Quebec
- Have respected the conditions of their CAQ and study permit
- Hold an eligible Quebec diploma
- Have accumulated qualifying full-time work experience in Quebec after graduation
- Demonstrate advanced-intermediate French proficiency (minimum B2 oral level)
As of 2026, most graduates must complete between 12 and 24 months of full-time Quebec work experience after graduation. Immediate access to PEQ upon graduation is no longer available for most study programs. This change reflects Quebec’s shift toward long-term labour market retention, rather than diploma-based selection alone.
Eligible Quebec Diplomas for PEQ
Graduates of the following Quebec programs may qualify under the PEQ, provided all additional criteria are met:
- DEP (Diploma of Vocational Studies) requiring at least 1,800 hours, often combined with an ASP
- DEC (Technical Diploma)
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree, MBA
- Doctorate (PhD)
Programs with limited labour market outcomes or short-term certifications may no longer qualify automatically, making program selection a critical step for students planning Quebec PR.
PEQ Temporary Foreign Worker Stream
The worker stream is designed for temporary foreign workers already employed in Quebec.
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Intend to live and work permanently in Quebec
- Hold a valid Quebec work permit
- Be currently employed by a Quebec-based employer
- Have completed a minimum of 12 months of full-time skilled work experience in Quebec
- Meet the advanced-intermediate French requirement (B2 oral level)
Compared to the graduate stream, the worker stream has remained relatively stable, but enforcement of French-language and employment verification has become stricter.
French Language Requirement Under PEQ (Critical in 2026)
French proficiency is the cornerstone of PEQ eligibility. Applicants must demonstrate advanced-intermediate (B2) oral French, covering:
- Oral comprehension
- Oral expression
French proficiency can be proven through:
- Completion of eligible French-language studies in Quebec
- Approved French language courses
- Recognised French language test results
Written French alone is not sufficient. Oral B2 proficiency is mandatory.
How PEQ Differs from Other Quebec Immigration Programs
Compared to QSWP and other Quebec pathways, the PEQ:
- Does not use a points grid
- Does not require an interview
- Is based on the Quebec experience and integration
- Has no guarantee of faster processing as of 2026
Applicants should not assume PEQ is easier or quicker than other Quebec immigration options.
Important PEQ Updates to Know Before Applying
- PEQ criteria can change without notice, as Quebec controls its own immigration rules
- Work experience requirements are now strictly enforced
- French-language proof is closely reviewed
- Applicants cannot apply under PEQ if they plan to immediately re-enrol in full-time studies
Quebec has clearly signalled a move toward fewer but more integrated immigrants, especially in French-speaking environments.
Planning a Successful PEQ Application
Given the tightened rules, PEQ applicants should plan early, especially around:
- Choice of study program
- Post-graduation employment strategy
- French language preparation
- Timing of application
Relying on outdated PEQ information can result in refusals or long delays.
Is PEQ Still a Good Pathway to Quebec PR?
Yes, but only for applicants who:
- Are committed to living in Quebec long-term
- Invest in French language proficiency early
- Gain meaningful Quebec work experience
- Choose education and jobs aligned with Quebec’s labour needs
For others, alternative Quebec immigration programs may be more suitable.
Popular Immigration Programs
Get Professional Guidance for Quebec Immigration
Quebec immigration programs operate under a separate legal framework from federal programs. Misunderstanding PEQ rules or relying on old eligibility assumptions can be costly.
Canada Immigration Global supports applicants with:
- PEQ eligibility assessments
- Quebec study-to-PR planning
- French language strategy
- CSQ and permanent residence applications