2026 Quebec Immigration Policy Overview

Understand the latest changes and trends in Quebec’s immigration policies

ℹ️ 2026 Policy Highlights: The Quebec Immigration Ministry has announced that 2026 will maintain a welcoming immigration policy, with a stronger focus on French proficiency, regional distribution, and labor market alignment.
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Steady Quota Growth

In 2026, Quebec plans to admit 50,000 to 52,000 new immigrants, a 3% increase from 2025. Economic immigration continues to dominate, accounting for 65% of the total quota.

  • Skilled Workers: ~20,000 spots
  • Business Immigrants: ~4,000 spots
  • Family Reunification: ~12,500 spots
  • Refugees & Others: ~5,000 spots
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Increased French Language Requirements

In 2026, Quebec has further emphasized French proficiency in immigration scoring, increasing requirements and points for all economic immigration streams.

  • PEQ program French requirement raised to B2 level
  • ARRIMA system French points increased by 25%
  • Spousal French proficiency points cap raised
  • Higher French interview pass rate required
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Enhanced Regional Immigration

Quebec continues to promote immigration to regions outside Montreal, offering additional points and expedited processing for applicants settling in regional areas.

  • Increased points for regional employer job offers
  • Extra points for regional study experience
  • Higher recognition of regional work experience
  • Expanded regional occupation lists

2025 ARRIMA System Draw and Ranking Trends

Analysis of 2025 ARRIMA draw patterns and ranking predictions

2025 ARRIMA Draw Score Trends

⚠️ Rising Scores: In 2025, ARRIMA draw scores are steadily increasing, with recent draws ranging between 520-550 points, up by approximately 15-25 points from 2024.
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2025 High-Scoring Applicant Profile

Key characteristics of successful 2025 applicants and factors to boost scores.

  • French proficiency at B2 level or higher (especially speaking/listening)
  • Quebec job offer or work experience
  • Quebec educational background
  • Young age group (25-35 years)
  • Spouse with French proficiency or professional skills
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2025 Ranking Analysis

Overview of 2025 ARRIMA system ranking timelines.

  • Below 480 points: Wait time over 20 months
  • 480-520 points: Wait time ~12-18 months
  • 520-560 points: Wait time ~6-12 months
  • Above 560 points: Likely invited within 6 months
  • Priority occupations: Possible expedited processing
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2025 Priority Occupations List

Occupations with additional points and expedited processing in 2025.

  • IT and Artificial Intelligence
  • Engineering and Technical Roles
  • Healthcare Professionals
  • Educators (especially French teachers)
  • Social Service Workers
  • Construction and Manufacturing Trades

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about Quebec immigration and the ARRIMA system

What is the total immigration quota for Quebec in 2026? +
According to the latest data from the Quebec Immigration Ministry, Quebec plans to admit 50,000 to 52,000 new immigrants in 2026, with approximately 65% in economic streams, 25% in family reunification, and 10% in refugees and other categories. This represents a 3% increase from 2025, primarily in economic streams.
What are the latest ARRIMA draw score trends? +
In 2025, ARRIMA draw scores have shown a steady upward trend, with recent draws ranging between 520-550 points, an increase of about 15-25 points compared to 2024. Applicants with French proficiency and Quebec work experience have a significant advantage. Scores are expected to rise further in 2026, so early application is recommended.
What changes have been made to the Quebec PEQ program? +
In 2026, the PEQ program has increased work experience requirements: 6 months for graduates and 12 months for workers. French proficiency requirements have risen to B2 level, but processing times have been reduced to within 6 months. Additionally, PEQ quotas have increased, particularly for applicants studying or working in regional Quebec.
Which occupations have priority processing in Quebec? +
In 2026, priority occupations include IT, engineering, healthcare, education, and social services. Fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, senior care, and French-language teaching offer additional points and expedited processing. The Quebec Immigration Ministry regularly updates the priority occupation list, so applicants should check the latest list for their occupation’s advantages.
How can I improve my ARRIMA score? +
To improve your ARRIMA score, focus on enhancing French proficiency (especially speaking and listening), obtaining a Quebec job offer, gaining Quebec work experience, acquiring Quebec educational credentials, and leveraging spousal points (French proficiency or professional skills). Additionally, working or studying in regional Quebec can earn extra points. A long-term strategy is recommended to boost your score.