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Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration (MIDI) Official Policy Guide
2025-2026 Canada & Quebec Immigration Guide
Understand IRCC processing delays and 2026 Quebec PEQ updates: French B2 requirements, application process, and timeline.
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MIDI & IRCC Official Policy Updates
IRCC Processing Delays Overview
2025 Immigration Targets and Backlog Analysis
Canada’s 2025 immigration target is 485,000, with IRCC facing a backlog of over 900,000 applications, leading to 10-50% longer processing times.
Application Surge
- 317,800 study permits processed in H1
- 825,600 work permit applications
- Persistent backlog
Policy Changes
- Priority for refugees and urgent cases
- Regular applications delayed
- Shifted processing priorities
2025 IRCC Processing Times
Based on 80% completion rate (September 10, 2025)
| Application Type | Category | 2024 Time | 2025 Time | Increase | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Study Permit | Initial (Overseas) | 5-17 weeks | 3-8 weeks (12 for India) | Reduced (longer for high-volume countries) | 5-week standard, apply 90 days early |
| Study Permit | Extension (In-Canada) | 4 weeks | 11-15 weeks | +13-20 days | Backlog >900K, apply 60 days early |
| Work Permit | Extension (In-Canada) | 115 days | 181-227 days | +66-112 days | Apply 90 days early |
| Immigration | Express Entry | 6 months | 6-8 months | No change | CRS 450+ prioritized |
| Immigration | PNP | 6-12 months | 8-15 months | +2-3 months | Slower for popular provinces |
2026 Quebec PEQ Policy Updates
French B2 Requirements and Priority Occupations
Key Policy Update
Starting January 1, 2026, all PEQ applicants must demonstrate French B2 proficiency; priority occupation list expanded to include IT and healthcare.
January 1, 2026
French B2 Requirement Effective
Applicants must provide TEF, TCF, or DELF B2 certificates; transitional applications follow old rules.
March 15, 2026
Priority Occupation List Update
Adds IT, healthcare, and green energy fields.
June 1, 2026
Online Application System Upgrade
New digital platform with real-time tracking, improving efficiency by 30%.
French B2 Level Requirements
Exam Types, Scoring Standards, and Preparation Tips
French Requirement Update
Starting 2026, all PEQ applicants (graduates and temporary workers) must prove French B2 proficiency.
| Exam Name | B2 Level Requirement | Validity | Cost (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TEF Canada | 309-348 points | 2 years | $430 CAD | Most popular choice |
| TCF Canada | 10-13 points | 2 years | $430 CAD | Alternative option |
| DELF B2 | Total 50/100 | Lifetime | $250 CAD | High international recognition |
| DALF C1/C2 | Total 50/100 | Lifetime | $270 CAD | Exceeds B2 requirements |
Listening Comprehension
- Understand extended speeches and reports
- Follow complex arguments
- Comprehend news and current affairs
- Understand standard-language films
Oral Expression
- Engage fluently in conversations
- Describe experiences clearly
- Explain viewpoints and arguments
- Handle unexpected situations
Reading Comprehension
- Read complex articles
- Understand contemporary issue reports
- Grasp authors’ viewpoints
- Read professional texts
Written Expression
- Write articles on various topics
- Argue viewpoints in essays
- Write letters emphasizing opinions
- Produce detailed reports
Preparation Tips
- 18-24 months to reach B2 from zero, costing $3,000-5,000 CAD
- Combine formal courses, online learning, and immersion
- Start targeted TEF/DELF prep 3 months in advance
PEQ Application Process
Steps from Study to Permanent Residency
Stage 1
Choose Study Program
Select a university degree, DEP, or AEC on the priority occupation list.
Stage 2
Apply for Study Permit
Obtain CAQ and Canadian study permit; processing takes 3-4 months.
Stage 3
Complete Study and French Exam
Complete 50% of study in Quebec and obtain B2 French certificate.
Stage 4
Apply for PEQ
Submit PEQ application within 6 months of graduation, including values declaration.
Stage 5
Obtain CSQ and PR
After receiving CSQ, apply for PR with IRCC; processing takes 12-15 months.
2026-2029 Timeline
Planning for Different Study Programs
| Time Node | University Degree | Vocational Training (DEP) | Technical Training (AEC) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan-Mar 2026 | Apply for study permit, start French | Apply for study permit, start French | Apply for study permit, start French |
| Sep 2026 | Begin degree (3-4 years) | Begin DEP (1.5-2 years) | Begin AEC (1-2 years) |
| Spring 2028 | Continue study, obtain B2 certificate | Complete DEP, apply for PEQ | Complete AEC, apply for PEQ |
| 2029 | Graduate, apply for PEQ | Obtain CSQ, apply for PR | Possibly obtain PR |
Key Reminders
- Start French study before arriving in Quebec
- Submit PEQ application within 6 months of graduation
- Ensure continuous legal status
PEQ Application Requirements
Quebec Graduate Category
Study Requirements
- Complete a Quebec-recognized program
- 50% study time in Quebec
- Full-time study
- Obtain official diploma
Language Requirements
- French B2 level
- Recognized exam results
- All four skills meet B2
- Valid certificate
Residency Requirements
- Legally reside in Quebec
- Intend to settle in Quebec
- Provide residency declaration
Values Requirements
- Sign Quebec values declaration
- Respect Quebec values
- Understand social principles
| Program Type | Minimum Duration | Priority Fields | Job Prospects |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Bachelor’s | 3 years full-time | Engineering, IT, Business | Excellent |
| Vocational Training (DEP) | 1,320 hours | Trades, Nursing, Mechanics | Good |
| Technical Training (AEC) | 900 hours | IT, Accounting | Good |
Priority Fields
- Information Technology: Software Development, Cybersecurity
- Healthcare: Nursing, Pharmacy
- Engineering: Civil, Electrical
- Green Economy: Renewable Energy
Frequently Asked Questions
Key Questions About the Application Process
How much have IRCC processing times increased in 2025?
Study permit extensions: 11-15 weeks (+13-20 days); work permit extensions: 181-227 days (+66-112 days); PNP: 8-15 months (+2-3 months).
What French level is required for Quebec PEQ in 2026?
B2 level via TEF, TCF, or DELF B2 exams, with all four skills meeting standards.
How long does Quebec study immigration take?
3-5 years: study (1.5-3 years), PEQ application (12-18 months), federal PR (12-15 months).
How long to reach French B2 from zero?
18-24 months with 20 hours/week study, costing $3,000-5,000 CAD.
What are the PEQ application fees?
Main applicant: $822 CAD; dependents: $171 CAD each; biometrics: $85 CAD; federal PR: $1,365 CAD/person.
Can PEQ study programs be completed online?
At least 50% of study time must be in Quebec; fully online programs are not eligible.
Can family members apply for PEQ together?
Spouses and children under 22 can apply as dependents; spouses need basic French proficiency.
Can I reapply if my PEQ application is refused?
Yes, but address refusal reasons (e.g., insufficient French, incomplete documents).
What happens after receiving a CSQ?
Apply for PR with IRCC, submitting medical exams and police certificates; processing takes 12-15 months.
Can I work while waiting for PEQ approval?
With a study permit, work part-time (20 hours/week); post-graduation, apply for PGWP for full-time work.
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