Quebec introduces a 12-month work permit extension for workers, i.e., the Government of Canada has introduced a temporary measure to support foreign workers in Quebec who are waiting for their permanent residence (PR) applications to be processed.
Under the new policy, some foreign workers will be able to apply for a faster employer-specific work permit. This permit will allow them to continue working in Quebec while their PR application moves through the system.
The announcement was made on March 13 by Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant. The announcement was made on behalf of Immigration Minister Lena Diab.
New Employer-Specific Work Permit For Quebec Workers
The new permit will allow eligible workers to remain employed with their current employer for up to 12 additional months.
To qualify for this temporary work permit extension, workers must meet several requirements.
First, they must have submitted an application for permanent residence through Quebec’s Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ). In addition, they must have received a request from the province to submit a Demande de Sélection Permanente (DSP).
Eligible workers must also currently hold, or have recently held, an employer-specific work permit issued through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or the International Mobility Program.
Another important requirement relates to the permit’s expiry date. The work permit must expire between March 13 and December 31, 2026.
Workers who meet these conditions can submit their application through the website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Applications for this temporary measure will be accepted until December 31, 2026. The government also confirmed that eligible applications will receive faster processing.
Foreign workers are encouraged to apply before their current permits expire so they can continue working without interruption.
According to the government, the goal of this policy is to help workers stay employed while their PR applications are being processed. It also helps businesses keep experienced workers and supports Canada’s long-term economic needs.
Understanding The DSP And CSQ Process
A Demande de Sélection Permanente (DSP) is an important step in Quebec’s immigration process.
The DSP application is required to obtain a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ). This certificate is issued by Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration (MIFI).
Once a worker receives a CSQ, the individual can apply to the federal government for permanent residence in Canada.
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