Quebec Hits Cap for Spousal Sponsorship Undertakings
In a significant development for immigration in Quebec, the province has reached its cap for family sponsorship applications under the spousal sponsorship program. This cap applies to applications submitted between June 26, 2024, and June 25, 2026.
During this two-year period, Quebec set a strict limit of **13,000 total applications**. Of these, **10,400 spots** were allocated for spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children, while **2,600 spots** were reserved for other relatives.
Quebec introduced this cap as part of its strategy to address housing pressures linked to immigration and to better manage the intake of new arrivals. The cap was implemented to ensure a balanced approach to immigration while maintaining the province’s cultural and economic needs.
How the Cap Works
Applications under the spousal sponsorship program are reviewed and accepted on a **first-come, first-served basis**. Once the cap of 13,000 applications is reached, the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) will no longer accept new applications until June 25, 2026.
Any applications submitted after the cap has been reached will be returned to the sender. Applicants whose submissions are rejected due to the cap will receive a refund of their application fees.
Exemptions from the Cap
While the cap applies to most family sponsorship applications, there are certain exemptions. The cap does not apply if the sponsor is seeking to add a dependent (such as a child, spouse, or partner) to an application that has already been submitted or to an undertaking that has been concluded but is still awaiting admission for permanent residency.
Additionally, the cap does not apply to situations where the applicant is sponsoring an unmarried, non-common-law relative under specific circumstances defined by Quebec’s immigration regulations.
Quebec’s Broader Immigration Context
For 2025, Quebec plans to welcome **between 48,500 and 51,500 immigrants**, maintaining levels similar to previous years. Economic immigration dominates admissions, accounting for about 72% of the total, as the province continues to prioritize French-language proficiency.
Quebec’s emphasis on French-language proficiency is driven by two key goals: maintaining its cultural identity and ensuring the successful integration of newcomers into Quebec society.
Understanding the Application Process
The process for sponsoring a family member in Quebec involves two main steps. First, sponsors must be deemed eligible by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Then, an application for an undertaking (the legal sponsorship agreement) must be submitted to Quebec’s Ministry, along with a permanent selection application for the person being sponsored.
The Ministry reviews each file and issues a decision, which is then forwarded to IRCC for the final assessment of the sponsored person’s permanent residence application.
For those affected by the cap, it is crucial to consult Quebec’s official immigration resources or seek expert legal advice to understand eligibility, exemptions, and alternatives for family reunification under Quebec’s specific immigration framework.
Quebec Hits Cap for Spousal Sponsorship Undertakings
In a significant development for immigration in Quebec, the province has reached its cap for family sponsorship applications under the spousal sponsorship program. This cap applies to applications submitted between June 26, 2024, and June 25, 2026.
During this two-year period, Quebec set a strict limit of **13,000 total applications**. Of these, **10,400 spots** were allocated for spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children, while **2,600 spots** were reserved for other relatives.
Quebec introduced this cap as part of its strategy to address housing pressures linked to immigration and to better manage the intake of new arrivals. The cap was implemented to ensure a balanced approach to immigration while maintaining the province’s cultural and economic needs.
How the Cap Works
Applications under the spousal sponsorship program are reviewed and accepted on a **first-come, first-served basis**. Once the cap of 13,000 applications is reached, the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) will no longer accept new applications until June 25, 2026.
Any applications submitted after the cap has been reached will be returned to the sender. Applicants whose submissions are rejected due to the cap will receive a refund of their application fees.
Exemptions from the Cap
While the cap applies to most family sponsorship applications, there are certain exemptions. The cap does not apply if the sponsor is seeking to add a dependent (such as a child, spouse, or partner) to an application that has already been submitted or to an undertaking that has been concluded but is still awaiting admission for permanent residency.
Additionally, the cap does not apply to situations where the applicant is sponsoring an unmarried, non-common-law relative under specific circumstances defined by Quebec’s immigration regulations.
Quebec’s Broader Immigration Context
For 2025, Quebec plans to welcome **between 48,500 and 51,500 immigrants**, maintaining levels similar to previous years. Economic immigration dominates admissions, accounting for about 72% of the total, as the province continues to prioritize French-language proficiency.
Quebec’s emphasis on French-language proficiency is driven by two key goals: maintaining its cultural identity and ensuring the successful integration of newcomers into Quebec society.
Understanding the Application Process
The process for sponsoring a family member in Quebec involves two main steps. First, sponsors must be deemed eligible by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Then, an application for an undertaking (the legal sponsorship agreement) must be submitted to Quebec’s Ministry, along with a permanent selection application for the person being sponsored.
The Ministry reviews each file and issues a decision, which is then forwarded to IRCC for the final assessment of the sponsored person’s permanent residence application.
For those affected by the cap, it is crucial to consult Quebec’s official immigration resources or seek expert legal advice to understand eligibility, exemptions, and alternatives for family reunification under Quebec’s specific immigration framework.
Conclusion:
Quebec’s implementation of a cap on spousal sponsorship undertakings marks a significant step in managing immigration flows while balancing the province’s cultural, economic, and social needs. With a strict limit of 13,000 applications between June 26, 2024, and June 25, 2026, the province aims to address housing pressures and ensure a balanced approach to immigration. While the cap may present challenges for some applicants, exemptions and alternative pathways remain available for those seeking family reunification. It is essential for prospective sponsors to stay informed about the process, exemptions, and timelines to navigate the system effectively.
FAQ:
1. What is the cap for spousal sponsorship applications in Quebec?
The cap is set at **13,000 total applications** between June 26, 2024, and June 25, 2026. This includes **10,400 spots** for spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children, and **2,600 spots** for other relatives.
2. How does the first-come, first-served system work?
Applications are accepted on a **first-come, first-served basis**. Once the cap of 13,000 applications is reached, no new applications will be accepted until June 25, 2026.
3. What happens if I submit an application after the cap is reached?
Applications submitted after the cap is reached will be returned to the sender. Applicants will receive a refund of their application fees.
4. Are there any exemptions from the cap?
Yes, the cap does not apply if the sponsor is adding a dependent to an already submitted application or if the undertaking is concluded but awaiting admission for permanent residency. It also does not apply to sponsoring an unmarried, non-common-law relative under specific circumstances defined by Quebec’s immigration regulations.
5. How many immigrants is Quebec planning to welcome in 2025?
Quebec plans to welcome **between 48,500 and 51,500 immigrants** in 2025, with a focus on economic immigration and French-language proficiency.
6. What are the two main steps in the application process?
1. Sponsors must first be deemed eligible by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
2. An application for an undertaking and a permanent selection application must be submitted to Quebec’s Ministry.
7. What should I do if I’m affected by the cap?
Consult Quebec’s official immigration resources or seek expert legal advice to explore eligibility, exemptions, and alternative pathways for family reunification.
8. What are some alternatives if my application is rejected due to the cap?
– Explore other immigration programs offered by Quebec or Canada.
– Consider applying under a different family sponsorship category if eligible.
– Wait for the next intake period if the cap is lifted after June 25, 2026.
