Introduction
Quebec, a Canadian province, has hit its 2025 cap on family sponsorship. On July 9, the Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration (MIFI) announced a freeze on new applications for spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners and dependents aged 18 or older until June 25, 2026. This Quebec sponsorship freeze affects both local families and overseas hopefuls. In this article, we explain the Quebec immigration freeze 2026, outline what changed in partner sponsorship Quebec, and provide clear steps for how to sponsor in Quebec 2026.
Quebec Immigration Freeze 2026: Why It Happened
The government set a limit of 13,000 family sponsorship files for 2025. Of these, 10,400 slots served spouses and dependents, and 2,600 slots served parents, grandparents and other relatives. MIFI reached its quota early. The province faces a housing shortage in Montreal and Québec City. Public services cannot expand fast enough, so MIFI imposed a Quebec family sponsorship pause to balance arrivals with capacity.
Québec Immigration Policy Update: Who Is Affected?
The sponsorship freeze applies to anyone trying to sponsor certain family members under Quebec’s Regular Skilled Worker Program. These categories include:
- Spouses – Legally married partners who want to reunite in Quebec.
- Common-law partners – Couples who have lived together in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 continuous months.
- Conjugal partners – Individuals in a committed relationship who cannot live together or marry due to legal or immigration barriers (e.g., same-sex partners in countries where same-sex marriage is illegal).
- Dependent children aged 18 or older – This includes biological or adopted children who are over 18 and financially dependent on the sponsor due to a disability or full-time studies.
These groups now face delays of up to 12 months due to the Quebec family reunification suspension. It is important to understand that the pause applies only to new applications submitted on or after July 9, 2025. Those already in process are not impacted by this freeze.
Family Reunification Suspension: Exemptions List
MIFI permits exceptions. Applications still accepted for:
| Exemption Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Unmarried dependent children under 18 | Must be single and financially dependent. |
| Adopted children | Legally adopted abroad or in Quebec. |
| Orphaned minors | No parents alive or able to care. |
| Dependents with disabilities | Physical or mental disability documented by a medical report. |
| Additions to ongoing sponsorship files | Requests to include dependents on an approved application. |
This table explains the narrow Quebec sponsor moratorium exceptions. No other categories qualify.
Partner Sponsorship: What Happens to In-Process Applications?
MIFI returns unprocessed files submitted after July 9, 2025. Sponsors receive a notice and any fees get refunded. If your file arrived before the cut-off, MIFI continues processing under the old rules. Check your application status via the MIFI portal at MIFI Client Portal.
Preparing for 2026 Intake
Candidates and sponsors should prepare now. Follow these steps to ensure readiness when MIFI reopens sponsorship:
- Gather Proof of Relationship: Collect marriage certificates, joint lease or financial documents, photos and correspondence.
- Translate Documents: Use a certified translator for any non-English or non-French paperwork.
- Update Police Clearances: Obtain recent certificates from all countries of residence since age 18.
- Medical Exams: Complete exams with a panel physician approved by IRCC.
- Financial Support Evidence: Provide pay stubs or tax returns showing ability to support your partner/dependent.
- Review Checklists: Use the official MIFI checklist (Family Sponsorship Checklist).
These practical steps will ease submission when the Quebec family sponsorship pause lifts.
Changes to Quebec Sponsorship Rules: Key Dates & Deadlines
- July 9, 2025: Quebec sponsorship freeze begins.
- June 25, 2026: Scheduled end date for freeze.
- 90 days before re-opening: MIFI will publish the new application procedure on its website.
Mark your calendar and set reminders.
Impacts of the Immigration Policy Update on Sponsors and Applicants
This freeze can delay family reunification by up to a year. Sponsors should:
- Inform dependents about the pause.
- Continue gathering and updating documents.
- Consult an immigration lawyer to explore alternative streams (e.g., Quebec Experience Program, Canadian federal family sponsorship).
Alternative Options During the Freeze If Quebec sponsorship is not available, consider:
- Federal Family Sponsorship: IRCC handles spouse and dependent applications outside Quebec. Process time: ~12 months. See IRCC Sponsorship Programs.
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP): Apply under the regular skilled worker route if you meet criteria for selection based on education, work and language.
- Temporary Residence Permits: Visitor visa or study permit for partners/dependents to join you in the interim.
How to Sponsor in Quebec 2026: Roadmap When applications reopen, follow this roadmap:
- Draft your application well ahead of time.
- Validate forms on the official MIFI website.
- Pay the correct fees online via the MIFI portal.
- Upload documents in PDF format only.
- Submit on opening day. Volume triggers cut-offs quickly.
- Monitor your email and portal for updates.
Quebec Sponsorship: Practical Tips from Experts
- Use tracked courier for any mailed documents.
- Keep digital backups of all paperwork.
- Join support forums (e.g., Canadavisa forums) for real-time tips.
- Engage Maple Crest Immigration for professional guidance.
Maple Crest Immigration Law Firm
Partner with Maple Crest Immigration Law. Our team guides you through Quebec sponsorship, navigates the Quebec immigration backlog, and prepares your file for the 2026 intake. Contact us for a consultation.
