If you’re planning to reunite with family in Quebec, take note of this major update: the province has temporarily suspended new sponsorship requests for spouses, partners, and dependent children aged 18 or older. This pause will remain in effect until 15 June 2026.
The decision follows Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) reaching its newly established annual intake cap under the Family Reunification Program.
What the Cap Means for Applicants
Quebec will now accept only 13,000 sponsorship requests from Canadian citizens and permanent residents wishing to sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residency. The breakdown is as follows:
- 10,400 requests are reserved for spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children aged 18 or older.
- 2,600 requests are allocated to parents, grandparents, and other eligible family members.
Once these limits are reached, MIFI will return any additional applications received. Unfortunately, these applicants will not be refunded the processing fee.
New applications for these categories will be accepted again starting 25 June 2026.
Who Is Still Eligible to Apply
The cap does not apply to all family reunification scenarios. Exemptions include:
- Dependent children under 18 years old
- Adopted children
- Orphaned minors (under 18) who are grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or siblings of the sponsor
- Dependent adult children with documented disabilities
- Dependents added to an already-submitted application
These exceptions ensure that vulnerable family members can still be sponsored without delay.
Why Quebec Is Pausing Sponsorships
While the pause helps manage immigration workflows, it’s also a response to broader economic pressures. Quebec is aiming to ease strain on its housing market, especially in urban areas where rent increases and housing shortages have intensified.
By regulating the pace of family reunification, the province hopes to align immigration with housing availability and public services.
What Affected Sponsors Should Do
If you were planning to submit a sponsorship request for a partner, spouse, or adult child, you will now have to wait until the next intake period begins in June 2026.
Meanwhile:
- Monitor MIFI’s official announcements for potential changes or early reopening
- Consult a licensed immigration professional to explore other federal or regional programs
- Prepare documentation in advance to be ready once applications resume
Alternative Options
If you’re significantly impacted, consider:
- Reviewing your eligibility for federal family sponsorship programs outside Quebec
- Exploring other immigration categories, such as humanitarian or skilled worker streams
- Seeking professional advice to ensure compliance with all current regulations
Conclusion
This 24-month pause is a significant change for families hoping to reunite in Quebec. While some vulnerable family members are still eligible for sponsorship, most must wait until mid-2026. Planning early, understanding the exemptions, and considering alternative routes will be essential during this period.