Quebec Extends Ban on Low-Wage Temporary Foreign Worker Permits

Quebec Extends Moratorium on Low-Wage Temporary Foreign Worker Permits Until 2026

Quebec has announced an extension of its moratorium on low-wage Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) within the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) for the regions of Montreal and Laval. This suspension, now set to last until December 31, 2026, affects employers and foreign nationals seeking work permits for positions earning below $34.62 per hour. The decision underscores Quebec’s strategic approach to managing its labor market amid ongoing economic challenges.

Impact and Scope of the Moratorium

The moratorium affects all jobs in Montreal and Laval that do not meet the specified wage threshold. However, certain sectors and workers remain exempt, including those in agriculture, construction, food processing, education, health and social services, and home healthcare. These exemptions reflect the province’s acknowledgment of critical labor shortages in key industries.

The freeze also includes the suspension of LMIAs under Quebec’s facilitated process, which typically allows employers to bypass the recruitment proof requirement for specialized roles. This extension builds upon the initial moratorium imposed in August 2024, originally slated to conclude in November 2025.

National Context and Broader Implications

Quebec’s decision aligns with broader federal measures restricting low-wage LMIA applications in metropolitan areas throughout Canada with unemployment rates of 6% or higher. Across the nation, this policy impacts 32 metropolitan areas, highlighting a concerted effort to address housing and affordability issues by regulating the influx of temporary foreign workers.

This initiative is part of a wider strategy aimed at maintaining manageable levels of temporary residents, especially in light of growing economic pressures. While Quebec has outlined plans through the end of 2026, other Canadian regions are set to review their moratoriums by January 2026, with updates expected each quarter.

Analysis and Perspective

The extension of Quebec’s moratorium represents a balancing act between fostering economic growth and addressing labor market disparities. By suspending low-wage LMIAs, the province aims to prioritize higher-wage job creation and better align its workforce demands with local economic needs. This move also reflects a broader national trend towards tightening immigration controls in response to economic and social pressures.

For employers and foreign workers, navigating these changes will require strategic planning and adaptation. As Quebec and Canada continue to refine their immigration policies, stakeholders must stay informed and agile to capitalize on emerging opportunities while mitigating potential challenges in the evolving labor landscape.