The City of Laval Joins Call for Immigrant Grandfather Clause in Quebec
The City of Laval is now advocating for a grandfather clause to be implemented for immigrants who are already settled in Quebec through the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), following similar calls from Montreal and Quebec City.
During a recent council meeting, Mayor Stéphane Boyer proposed a resolution which was unanimously adopted by the city council members. The resolution emphasizes Laval’s unique economic situation and its ability to accommodate immigrants within Quebec’s immigration policies.
Mayor Boyer highlighted the significant impact immigration decisions have on the local economy in Laval. He expressed concerns that generic measures could impede talent attraction and investment, as well as disrupt the stability that local employers rely on.
The PEQ, which previously facilitated a streamlined path to permanent residency for individuals meeting specific residency and language criteria, was replaced by the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) on Nov. 19.
While the Legault government has assured that applications submitted before the PEQ termination will be processed under the old regulations, there is a growing group of individuals who were relying on the PEQ but now find themselves in limbo due to not meeting the application requirements in time.
Despite calls from various municipalities and organizations for a grandfather clause, Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge has maintained his stance against extending such rights to those affected.
Roberge argues that the PSTQ, which prioritizes selection based on Quebec’s specific needs rather than a first-come, first-served approach, offers a more efficient immigration process.
The uncertainty surrounding the fate of individuals who had planned to obtain permanent residency through the PEQ has also prompted Quebec City Mayor Bruno Marchand and Montreal officials to voice their concerns and support for a grandfather clause.
Quebec aims to welcome around 29,000 economic immigrants under the PSTQ this year, as it continues to navigate the transition from the PEQ to the new selection program.
