Quebec’s Ministers of Higher Education, Education, and Immigration have announced new regulations for international students. From February 26, 2025, to February 26, 2026, the number of study permit applications for colleges and vocational schools will be reduced.
The number of applications for universities will remain unchanged.
This measure aims to limit the influx of new international students into Quebec’s education system.
Exceptions will be made for children of workers or students already living in Quebec and for those enrolled in medical programs.
Currently, Quebec has approximately 615,000 temporary residents, including 129,000 students. Over the past few years, the number of international students has increased by 68%, from 70,000 in 2018 to nearly 120,000 in 2023.
Additionally, from March 3 to November 30, 2025, the ban on certain work permit applications for low-wage positions under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program will be extended. The ban will now also apply to the Laval region, excluding Montreal.
The minimum wage for these jobs will increase from $27.47 to $32.96 per hour.
Exceptions will remain for agriculture, construction, education, healthcare, and the food industry.
Further details will be available on Québec.ca starting March 3. This is part of the government’s plan to reduce the number of temporary residents in the province.
Oleksandra Melnykova, Immigration and Refugee Consultant in Canada.
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