Quebec’s stricter immigration rules make it harder for low-wage workers and international students, with LMIA suspensions and a 20% enrolment cut. But options remain. Learn how to stay in Quebec, how Newfoundland is handling immigration cuts, and meet Mandela Kuet, a newcomer making a difference.
1. Top Story: Quebec Tightens Immigration Rules, but Options Remain
This week, Quebec made major changes affecting temporary foreign workers and international students. The province expanded LMIA suspensions for low-wage jobs and cut international student enrolment by 20%. But if you want to stay in Quebec, you still have options.
Key Takeaways
- LMIA Suspension Expands: Low-wage jobs in Laval and Montreal now harder to access.
- Student Cap Reduces Seats: 20% fewer spots for international students.
- Immigration Still Possible: Explore three pathways to stay in Quebec.
Workers Face New Hiring Barriers
Quebec has extended its suspension of LMIAs for low-wage jobs in Montreal until November 2025 and expanded the restriction to Laval starting March 2025. This means employers in non-exempt sectors must now pay at least $27.47/hour or recruit local talent instead. For foreign workers, it’s becoming harder to secure jobs in these regions unless they qualify for exempt industries like agriculture, construction, or healthcare.
For those affected, alternative options include switching to higher-wage jobs or exploring permanent residency pathways. The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) remains a strong option for those with local work experience. See how this policy affects workers in Quebec Expands LMIA Suspension, Impacting Low-Wage Jobs.
Students Face Increased Competition
International students looking to study in Quebec will now face tighter admission caps. The government announced a 20% reduction in enrolment, mainly impacting private colleges. Universities have kept their quotas, but competition is expected to rise. This move aligns with Quebec’s effort to regulate student immigration and curb diploma mills.
If you’re a student affected by this, you can explore study options in other provinces or focus on pathways like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which can lead to PR. Learn more about the changes in Quebec Cuts International Student Enrolment by 20%.
How to Stay in Quebec: 3 Immigration Programs
Despite these changes, there are still strong pathways to permanent residency in Quebec:
- Quebec Experience Program (PEQ): Ideal for workers and students with local experience.
- Permanent Immigration Pilot Programs: Covers AI, IT, food processing, and healthcare workers.
- Family Sponsorship: If you have close family in Quebec, this remains a reliable option.
What This Means for You
Quebec’s new restrictions make temporary stays tougher, but permanent pathways remain open. If you’re affected, now is the time to secure a stable immigration status before more policy shifts. Explore your best options with AskAïa today.
2. Newfoundland and Labrador’s Focus: Navigating Immigration Cuts
The federal government has cut Newfoundland and Labrador’s immigration spaces by half, reducing its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allocations. This impacts sectors like healthcare, which rely on international talent. The province is negotiating adjustments and shifting to an Expression of Interest (EOI) system to manage applications effectively.
Key Takeaways
- PNP spaces reduced: Newfoundland and Labrador’s PNP allocations were cut from 3,050 to 1,525.
- Healthcare impact: Fewer immigration spots threaten efforts to address labor shortages, especially in healthcare.
- Policy shifts ahead: The province is transitioning to an EOI system to streamline applications.
3. Success Snapshot: Mandela Kuet Bridges Communities and Empowers Youth
Mandela Kuet, a former refugee from South Sudan, is transforming Winnipeg’s North End by uniting Indigenous and newcomer communities. Through The Hood Fams and Real Talk Winnipeg, he mentors at-risk youth and fosters cultural understanding. His work highlights how immigrants drive social change, building stronger, more inclusive communities.
