Quebec Hits Cap for Undertakings to Sponsor Parents and Grandparents

In a significant development for immigration processes, Quebec has reached its maximum quota for family sponsorship applications under its immigration program as of July 9, 2025. This milestone has prompted an immediate halt to new applications in specific categories until June 25, 2026.

Who Is Affected

The suspension primarily impacts Quebec residents seeking to sponsor spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, and dependent children aged 18 or older for permanent residence. Applications for these categories submitted after the quota was filled are being returned unprocessed, with no fees charged or refunded.

Background and Quotas

Quebec implemented a family sponsorship cap on June 26, 2024, for a two-year period, with a total of 13,000 applications allowed. The quota was distributed as 10,400 for spouses and adult dependent children, and 2,600 for parents, grandparents, and other relatives. The 10,400 quota for spouses and adult children has now been filled, triggering the suspension.

Exceptions: Who Can Still Be Sponsored

Not all categories are affected. Quebec continues to accept applications for dependent children under 18, those with disabilities, and parents and grandparents, subject to their respective quotas. Additionally, new dependents can be added to existing applications that were already in process.

Reason for the Pause

The government’s decision aims to manage immigration levels and maintain processing standards. This follows a period of high application approvals, with over 26,500 accepted in 2022 and early 2023, prompting tighter controls to prevent backlogs.

Future Outlook and Next Steps

No new applications for the affected categories will be accepted until June 25, 2026. The Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration (MIFI) will announce future intake periods by that date. Applicants whose submissions were returned may reapply when the intake reopens.

Scope of the Pause

This suspension applies only to sponsorship applications for family reunification in Quebec. Other Canadian provinces remain unaffected, continuing their usual processes without the cap.

For those considering family sponsorship in Quebec, preparation for a wait until late June 2026 is advisable, or exploring alternative immigration options in other provinces where the cap does not apply may be necessary.

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Key Points to Consider

Several important details emerge from this development that are crucial for prospective applicants and immigration consultants:

• Applications Affected: The pause specifically targets sponsorship applications for spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, and dependent children aged 18 or older seeking to settle in Quebec.
• Duration of Pause: The suspension will remain in effect until June 25, 2026, aligning with the end of the two-year quota period established in June 2024.
• Exceptions to the Rule: While the cap has been reached for certain categories, Quebec continues to accept applications for minor children (under 18), dependent children with disabilities, and parents or grandparents, provided their respective quotas have not been filled.
• Returned Applications: Any new sponsorship applications for the affected categories received after the quota was reached will be returned unprocessed. Importantly, no application fees will be charged, and any fees already paid will be refunded.
• Rationale Behind the Pause: The primary reason for implementing this cap is to manage the volume of immigration and ensure that processing standards are maintained. This follows a surge in approvals in 2022 and early 2023, with over 26,500 applications accepted during that period.

Next Steps for Applicants

Individuals affected by this pause should consider the following steps:

• Wait for the Next Intake Period: Prospective applicants should prepare to wait until June 25, 2026, when the Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration (MIFI) is expected to reopen the application process for these categories.
• Reapply When Intake Reopens: Those whose applications were returned due to the cap will have the opportunity to reapply once the suspension is lifted.
• Monitor MIFI Announcements: The Ministry will provide updates on future intake periods and any changes to the quota system closer to the reopening date.
• Explore Alternative Options: Applicants may also consider sponsoring family members through other Canadian provinces where this specific cap does not apply.

Implications for Applicants

This pause underscores the importance of planning and timing when it comes to family sponsorship applications in Quebec. Applicants who were preparing to submit their applications in the affected categories should now adjust their timelines and consider alternative strategies. This includes:

• Seeking legal or consulting advice to explore other immigration pathways.
• Preparing all necessary documentation well in advance of the next intake period.
• Staying informed about any changes to Quebec’s immigration policies and quotas.

Final Thoughts

While this development may cause delays for some, it reflects Quebec’s efforts to balance its immigration goals with the need for efficient processing. Prospective applicants should remain vigilant and proactive in adapting to these changes to achieve their family reunification objectives.

Conclusion

Quebec’s decision to halt new family sponsorship applications for spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, and dependent children aged 18 or older marks a significant shift in its immigration strategy. This pause, effective until June 25, 2026, underscores the province’s efforts to manage immigration volumes and maintain processing efficiency. While this may cause delays for some, it highlights the importance of planning and adaptability for those seeking family reunification in Quebec.

Prospective applicants are advised to wait for the next intake period or explore alternative immigration pathways in other Canadian provinces. Staying informed about policy changes and preparing necessary documentation in advance will be crucial for success in future applications. This development reflects Quebec’s commitment to balancing its immigration goals with efficient processing standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is affected by Quebec’s sponsorship application pause?

The pause primarily affects Quebec residents sponsoring spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, and dependent children aged 18 or older. Applications for these categories submitted after the cap was reached are returned unprocessed.

2. What happens to applications submitted after the cap was reached?

Applications received after the cap was filled are returned unprocessed. No application fees are charged, and any paid fees will be refunded.

3. Are there any exceptions to the application pause?

Yes, Quebec continues to accept applications for dependent children under 18, those with disabilities, and parents or grandparents, subject to their respective quotas.

4. When will Quebec resume accepting sponsorship applications?

Quebec will resume accepting applications for the affected categories on June 25, 2026. The Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration (MIFI) will announce future intake periods closer to this date.

5. Can applicants explore other Canadian provinces for family sponsorship?

Yes, other Canadian provinces are unaffected by Quebec’s cap and continue their usual sponsorship processes. Applicants may consider these alternatives while waiting for Quebec’s intake to reopen.