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Quebec eases path for foreign workers awaiting permanent residency

Struggling with long PR processing times? Quebec's latest rule change offers foreign workers a lifeline to keep their jobs—and their futures—secure.

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The image shows an open book with handwriting on it in black and white. The text on the book reads "title upper canada land petitions 1763-1865 - mikan number 205131 - microform c-1763".

Quebec eases path for foreign workers awaiting permanent residency

Foreign workers in Quebec now have a new way to keep their jobs while waiting for permanent residency. The Canadian government has introduced a temporary measure to support those applying under Quebec's Skilled Worker Selection Program. This change aims to help workers stay employed during the processing period.

The new rule allows eligible workers to apply for an employer-specific work permit under the International Mobility Program (IMP). To qualify, they must have already submitted a permanent residency (PR) application through Quebec's programme. They must also have received a Demande de Sélection Permanente (DSP) request from the province.

The permit will let workers continue with their current employer for an extra 12 months. Applications for this permit are open until December 31, 2026, with faster processing times promised. The government has not released exact figures on how many workers received a DSP under the new programme between 2023 and March 2024. However, the measure is designed to ease the transition to permanent residency while addressing Canada's long-term labour needs.

Workers who meet the criteria can apply for the permit through IRCC's website. The initiative ensures they remain employed while their PR application is reviewed. The deadline for applications remains set for the end of 2026.

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