Canada has introduced a temporary policy allowing certain foreign workers in Quebec to extend their work permits without requiring a new Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The measure aims to help workers remain employed while their permanent residence applications are being processed.
The announcement was made on March 13, 2026, and applies to foreign workers who are currently working in Quebec and transitioning toward permanent residence through the province’s immigration programs.
12-Month Work Permit Extension
Under the new policy, eligible foreign workers can obtain an employer-specific work permit extension for up to 12 months. This extension allows workers to continue working for their current employer while waiting for their permanent residence application to be processed.
The permit is issued under Canada’s International Mobility Program (IMP), meaning it is exempt from the requirement to obtain a new LMIA.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the extension, foreign workers must meet several conditions set by the federal and provincial governments.
- They must have submitted a permanent residence application under Quebec’s Skilled Worker Selection Program.
- They must have received a request from Quebec to submit a Demande de Sélection Permanente (DSP).
- The worker must hold or have recently held an employer-specific work permit.
- The existing permit must expire between March 13 and December 31, 2026.
These conditions ensure that the extension is available only to workers who are already in the process of transitioning to permanent residence.
Application Deadline
Eligible workers can apply for this work permit extension through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Applications must be submitted before December 31, 2026.
Workers are encouraged to apply before their current permit expires so they can maintain legal work authorization while their new permit is processed.
Transition to Permanent Residence
The new policy is designed to support workers who are moving from temporary work status to permanent residence in Quebec. By allowing them to remain employed during the immigration process, the government hopes to reduce labour disruptions and support economic stability.
Applicants in Quebec typically require a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) before they can apply for permanent residence with the federal government.
Benefits for Employers
Employers in Quebec may also benefit from the policy because it helps them retain experienced employees. Labour shortages in several sectors have made it challenging for businesses to replace skilled workers quickly.
By allowing foreign workers to extend their permits without a new LMIA, employers can maintain workforce stability while employees finalize their permanent residence applications.
Why This Policy Matters
Quebec relies on foreign workers to support key industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, construction, and hospitality. Temporary policies like this help ensure that workers who are already contributing to the economy can remain in the workforce during the immigration process.
The policy also aligns with Canada’s broader immigration strategy to transition more temporary residents into permanent residents.
Final Thoughts
The new LMIA-exempt work permit extension provides a valuable opportunity for foreign workers in Quebec to maintain employment while pursuing permanent residence. With up to 12 additional months of work authorization, eligible workers can continue contributing to the province’s labour market while completing their immigration process.
