Two French immigrant families in Quebec face urgent challenges due to the recent abolition of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ). Gregory Gatt and his colleague Samir Ameur may have to leave the province as a result of this policy change.
Impact of PEQ Abolition on Temporary Workers
Gregory Gatt, 32, arrived in Quebec in July 2024 with his partner and two children. A former police officer in France, Gatt had secured a position at the Quebec Detention Centre, also known as the Orsainville prison. He was part of a cohort of ten correctional agents, but only Gatt and one colleague remain employed after others left due to inadequate skills.
Training a correctional officer costs approximately $20,000, according to the union. Despite completing specialized training in suicide prevention, Gatt now faces an uncertain future. The abolition of the PEQ has left him and his family with only one option: the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (PSTQ), a points-based selection system with no credit for his current job.
Challenges in the PSTQ System
- Before 2025, correctional positions were limited to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
- The criteria were changed to facilitate recruitment, but no points are awarded to temporary workers in this field.
- Gatt’s job provides zero points in the Arrima system, making it nearly impossible to qualify for PSTQ invitations.
With options evaporating in Quebec, Gatt has researched the federal Express Entry program but found it equally unwelcoming. His score remains too low for consideration.
Seeking Alternative Solutions
Desperate to remain in Canada, Gatt is considering pursuing a diploma in welding, unrelated to his correctional training, to gain a post-graduation work permit. His new training would be funded via a governmental agreement between France and Quebec.
“The government invested $20,000 in my correctional training, and now it could spend another $30,000 for my welding diploma just so I can stay,” Gatt remarked.
Colleagues in Similar Situations
Samir Ameur, 30, faces a similar predicament. Arriving in Quebec in the summer of 2023 with his partner Léa Marquet, the couple planned their immigration around the PEQ. Both have been working in their respective fields while maintaining solid profiles for permanent residency applications.
- Léa is employed in insurance and was due to apply for residency in July 2025.
- The PEQ’s suspension on June 5, 2025, halted their plans unexpectedly.
Now, the couple is exploring extensions for their work permits, but they encounter administrative hurdles. Léa’s field is not recognized as a labor shortage area, which complicates obtaining a closed work permit. Despite their strong profiles, neither has received an invitation to apply for the PSTQ.
Emotional Toll of Uncertainty
The thought of returning to France is distressing for them. León believes life in Quebec is more stable and fulfilling. “I’m more relaxed here than I ever was in France,” she stated. Both individuals express understanding of the government’s right to revise immigration policies but criticize the abrupt implementation of these changes.
“If you want to abolish the PEQ, that’s your choice. Just give us advance notice,” Léa pleaded, highlighting the need for a more compassionate approach for existing immigrants.
Timeline of PEQ Changes
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| February 14, 2010 | PEQ established as a fast track to permanent residency for foreign graduates and workers. |
| October 31, 2024 | Suspension of new applications for the PEQ Graduate stream. |
| November 29, 2024 | PSTQ replaces the regular Skilled Worker Program but is not operational. |
| June 5, 2025 | Suspension of the PEQ Worker stream; Graduate stream suspension extended. |
| July 2, 2025 | PSTQ becomes the primary path to permanent residency for skilled workers via Arrima. |
| November 19, 2025 | Official abolition of the PEQ; no new applications accepted post this date. |
As these families navigate this complex landscape, the situation underscores the significant impact of policy changes on individual lives and the urgent need for clarity in immigration pathways.
