Quebec Pauses Family Reunification Applications until June 2026
In a significant move impacting immigration processes in Quebec, the provincial government has announced a pause on new family reunification sponsorship applications for spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, and dependent children aged 18 or older. This suspension, effective until June 25, 2026, was confirmed by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) on July 9, 2025.
The decision follows Quebec reaching its maximum intake cap for these types of applications, which covers the period from June 26, 2024, to June 25, 2026. As a result, any new applications submitted in these categories after the cap was reached will be returned unprocessed, with no application fees charged.
Quebec’s family sponsorship process is distinct from the rest of Canada, requiring applicants to obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) and sign a Quebec-specific undertaking agreement. This unique system grants the province greater control over the intake and approval of applications, making the cap particularly impactful for residents of Quebec compared to other regions of Canada.
The pause is expected to delay family reunification for thousands of Quebec residents, particularly those hoping to sponsor a spouse or adult child. Individuals who were planning to apply will now face a wait of up to a year or more before they can submit a new application.
While the suspension may cause challenges for affected families, alternative immigration pathways remain available. These include applying for a work permit or study permit to legally remain in Canada, as well as exploring permanent residency options through programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Who is Affected by the Pause?
The suspension primarily impacts several specific groups of individuals who were planning to reunite with their family members in Quebec. These include:
- Spouses – Individuals married to a Quebec resident.
- Common-law partners – Partners in a committed relationship without formal marriage.
- Conjugal partners – Partners in a committed relationship who are unable to live together due to circumstances beyond their control.
- Dependent children aged 18 or over – Adult children who are financially dependent on the sponsor.
Suspension Details and What Happens If You Apply Now
Quebec’s pause on new family reunification applications began after the province reached its maximum intake cap for the period from June 26, 2024, to June 25, 2026. As a result, any new applications submitted in the affected categories after this cap was reached will be returned unprocessed. Importantly, no application fees will be charged for these unprocessed submissions.
Impact on Families
This pause is expected to delay family reunification for thousands of Quebec residents, particularly those hoping to sponsor a spouse or adult child. Individuals who were planning to apply will now face a wait of up to a year or more before they can submit a new application. This delay may cause significant emotional and logistical challenges for families separated by borders.
Summary of Key Points
In summary, the key details of the suspension are as follows:
- New family reunification sponsorship applications for spouses and adult children are paused in Quebec until June 25, 2026.
- Applications submitted after the cap was reached will be returned unprocessed, with no fees charged.
- Quebec’s unique immigration process, which includes the requirement for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) and a Quebec-specific undertaking agreement, allows the province to maintain greater control over its sponsorship intake and approvals.
- Alternative immigration pathways, such as work permits, study permits, and other permanent residency programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), may still be available to those affected by the suspension.
Conclusion
The pause on family reunification applications in Quebec until June 25, 2026, marks a significant development in the province’s immigration process. This decision, driven by reaching the intake cap for the 2024-2026 period, affects spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, and dependent children aged 18 or older. While this suspension may cause delays and challenges for many families, it’s important to remember that alternative immigration pathways remain available, such as work permits, study permits, and other permanent residency programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Families affected by this pause are encouraged to explore these options and seek professional guidance to navigate the situation effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long will the pause on family reunification applications in Quebec last?
The pause is in effect until June 25, 2026. Applications submitted after the cap was reached will be returned unprocessed, with no fees charged.
2. Who is affected by the pause on family reunification applications?
The suspension primarily affects spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, and dependent children aged 18 or older who were planning to apply for family reunification in Quebec.
3. What happens if I submit a family reunification application now?
Any new applications submitted after the cap was reached will be returned unprocessed. No application fees will be charged for these submissions.
4. Are there any exceptions to the pause on family reunification applications?
As of now, there are no exceptions mentioned for the pause. All new applications in the affected categories will be returned unprocessed until June 25, 2026.
5. What alternative immigration options are available during the pause?
Alternative pathways include applying for a work permit, study permit, or exploring permanent residency options through programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Consulting with an immigration professional can help identify the best options for your situation.
