Canada to allow some Quebec foreign workers to extend employer-specific work permits by 12 months

Canada has introduced a temporary measure that will allow some foreign workers in Quebec to extend their work permits for up to 12 months while their permanent residence applications are processed. The measure is intended to help eligible workers remain employed as they transition to permanent residence.

The announcement was made on March 13 by Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant, on behalf of Immigration Minister Lena Diab. Under the measure, eligible foreign workers will receive an expedited employer-specific work permit through the International Mobility Program (IMP).

12-month permit extension for eligible workers

The new permit will allow eligible workers to continue working for their current employer for up to an additional 12 months.


To qualify, a worker must have submitted a permanent residence application under Quebec’s new Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ). They must also have received a request from the province to submit a Demande de Sélection Permanente (DSP).

Eligible applicants must currently hold, or have recently held, an employer-specific work permit under either the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or the International Mobility Program. Their permit must expire between March 13 and December 31, 2026.

Workers who meet the criteria can apply for the new permit through the website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) until December 31, 2026. The government said applications will be processed on an expedited basis.

Measure aims to support transition to permanent residence

Authorities said the temporary measure aims to help foreign workers stay employed while their permanent residence applications move through the system. The policy is also intended to support Canada’s long-term economic needs.

A Demande de Sélection Permanente is part of the process required to obtain a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ). The CSQ is issued by Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration and confirms that the applicant has been selected to settle in the province.

After receiving the CSQ, applicants can submit their permanent residence application to the federal government of Canada.