A new survey released Thursday by the Union des municipalités du Québec (UMQ) shows strong public support for immigrants already working in Quebec, with 83 per cent of respondents saying those who are employed and well established should be allowed to stay.
The Léger-UMQ poll marks a four-point increase compared to a similar survey in November 2025, reflecting growing support for temporary workers who contribute to the province’s economy and community vitality.
“Rarely have we seen such a consensus in Quebec, the government must act now,” said Geneviève Dubois, 1st VP of the UMQ and Mayor of Nicolet. “Our convenience stores, our restaurants and grocery stores, our health and education systems rely on people who have chosen Quebec. There must be a grandfather clause for PEQ orphans and an agreement between the governments of Quebec and Canada for the renewal of the licences of the persons concerned.”
The survey also indicates that 77 per cent of Quebecers believe the Government of Canada should make it easier for workers already established in Quebec to renew their temporary permits.
The UMQ says the findings reinforce the need for measures such as a grandfather clause for affected workers and the removal of current restrictions under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
Representing municipalities across the province for more than a century, the UMQ says local governments are calling for practical solutions to ensure workforce stability in communities throughout Quebec.
