Quebec Experience Class – Designed for those with skilled work experience acquired in Quebec
The Quebec Experience Class (Programme de l’expérience québécoise, or PEQ) is a popular immigration pathway for skilled workers and international graduates with experience in Quebec. If you speak French and have lived or worked in Quebec, the PEQ may offer a direct route to permanent residency.
🧾 What Type of Visa is the Quebec Experience Class?
The PEQ is a permanent residency pathway for people who have worked or studied in Quebec. It is a two-step process that begins with the province of Quebec and ends with the federal government of Canada.
🏠 What You Get With the Quebec Experience Class
Permanent resident status for you and your family
The right to live and work anywhere in Quebec
Access to health care, public services, and a pathway to citizenship
⏱️ Quebec Experience Class Processing Time
The PEQ is processed in two stages:
Stage 1 – Application to Quebec: Less than 6 months
Stage 2 – Application to the federal government: About 12 months (as of 2024)
💰 Quebec Experience Class Costs and Fees
Costs are paid in two stages:
Stage 1 – Quebec application
- CAD $850 for the main applicant
- CAD $180 for a spouse, partner, or dependent child
- Other document fees may apply
Stage 2 – Federal application
- CAD $1,365 per adult
- CAD $230 per child
- CAD $85 biometrics fee per person
Applicants must also show proof of funds to support their move
✅ Who is Eligible for the Quebec Experience Class?
You may be eligible if you:
- Have skilled work experience in Quebec in the past 3 years
- Or have completed an eligible study program in Quebec
- Are at least 18 years old and living legally in Quebec at the time of application
- Have advanced intermediate knowledge of spoken French (usually B2 level or higher)
- Have legal status in Quebec at the time of application
- Plan to live in Quebec permanently
📈 How Competitive is the Quebec Experience Class?
The PEQ is not competitive like Express Entry. If you meet the requirements, you can apply without receiving an invitation. However, the French language requirement is strict, and all supporting documents must be submitted correctly.
👤 Who Should Apply for the Quebec Experience Class?
This program is ideal for:
- French-speaking workers currently living in Quebec
- Graduates of Quebec colleges or universities
- People with recent work experience in Quebec
- Applicants who do not want to wait for an invitation through the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSW)
⚠️ Who Might Need to Consider Other Options?
The PEQ may not be the right fit if you:
- Do not speak French at an advanced intermediate level
- Do not have recent work or study experience in Quebec
- Plan to live outside of Quebec after getting PR
- Have immigration goals that align better with federal or other provincial programs
📌 Next Steps for the Quebec Experience Class
- Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements, including French language ability
- Gather your documents and submit your application to Quebec
- Once approved, submit your application to the federal government for PR processing
- Keep your legal status in Quebec while waiting for your results
- If you’re also eligible for QSW, compare the steps and processing time — PEQ is often faster
💬 Got Questions About the Quebec Experience Class?
If you’re wondering whether the PEQ is right for you or need help understanding the process, leave your question in the comments below. We’re here to help.
