Quebec has taken another step to regulate temporary foreign worker admissions by extending and expanding its suspension on low-wage Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs). The policy, originally set to expire on March 3, 2025, will now remain in effect until November 30, 2025. Previously limited to the Montreal administrative region, the measure will now apply to Laval as well, starting March 3, 2025. The announcement was made by Jean-François Roberge, Quebec’s Minister of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration, on February 27, 2025.
Who Is Affected by the LMIA Suspension?
This extended suspension applies to employers hiring temporary foreign workers under the low-wage stream of the TFWP if:
- The job is located in Montreal or Laval.
- The offered wage is below $27.47 CAD per hour, which is Quebec’s median wage threshold.
Employers submitting LMIAs for affected positions will see their applications rejected without processing while the suspension remains in effect.
Quebec’s Wider Immigration Adjustments
This policy is part of Quebec’s broader strategy to manage temporary resident numbers. On the same day as the LMIA suspension extension, Quebec also announced a cap on the number of international student applications. For the first time, the province’s upcoming Immigration Levels Plan will consider targets for temporary resident admissions. Over the past year, Quebec has introduced several measures that impact temporary foreign workers, international students, and prospective immigrants navigating the system in 2025.
Industries and Applications Exempt from the Suspension
Despite the restrictions, some industries and LMIA applications remain exempt from the suspension. These include:
- Employers in specific industry groups classified under the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS), including:
- Agriculture
- Construction
- Food Processing
- Education
- Health and Social Services
- LMIA applications submitted before September 3, 2024, or those that have already been approved.
Federal Government’s LMIA Restrictions in High-Unemployment Regions
Quebec’s LMIA restrictions align with similar measures introduced at the federal level. On September 26, 2024, the Canadian government paused LMIA processing for the low-wage stream of the TFWP in census metropolitan areas (CMAs) where unemployment exceeds 6%.
The list of affected CMAs is updated quarterly, with the next update scheduled for April 4, 2025. However, exceptions apply to:
- Seasonal and non-seasonal jobs in primary agriculture, food processing, and fish processing.
- Construction and healthcare positions.
Quebec’s Evolving Stance on Immigration
The province’s decision to extend and expand LMIA restrictions is in line with its evolving immigration strategy. With new limitations on international student intake and upcoming temporary resident targets, Quebec is moving toward a more controlled immigration framework.
Stay Informed with The Canada Time
Quebec’s evolving immigration policies highlight the province’s shifting approach to temporary foreign workers and international students. As these changes unfold, staying informed is crucial for employers, workers, and applicants navigating Canada’s immigration landscape.
For expert insights and the latest updates on Canadian immigration, follow The Canada Time—your trusted source for reliable news.
