Canada Immigration: Quebec Suspends Family Sponsorship Applications Until Mid-2026

Quebec has announced a significant change in its immigration policy. The province will limit family reunification applications until mid-2026. This decision seeks to manage immigration growth and alleviate housing pressures.

If you’re looking to reunite with family in Quebec, be aware that the province has temporarily halted new sponsorship applications. This applies to spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children aged 18 or older. The suspension remains in effect until June 25, 2026.

This action follows the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) reaching its new sponsorship cap for these categories under the Family Reunification Program.

What Does the Cap Mean for Applicants?

Quebec will now accept a maximum of 13,000 applications from Canadian citizens and permanent residents wishing to sponsor eligible family members. The breakdown is as follows:

• 10,400 applications are reserved for spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children aged 18 or older.
• 2,600 applications are allocated for parents, grandparents, and other eligible relatives.

Once these limits are reached, MIFI will stop accepting new applications until the next intake period starts on June 25, 2026. Any applications submitted beyond the cap will be returned. Unfortunately, applicants will not receive a refund for processing fees.

Who Can Still Apply?

Not all applications are affected by this cap. Important exceptions exist, including:

• Unmarried dependent children under 18
• Children being adopted
• Orphaned minors, including siblings, nieces/nephews, or grandchildren of the sponsor
• Dependent adult children with disabilities
• Dependents added to an already pending application

These exemptions ensure that vulnerable family members can still be sponsored promptly. If you’re sponsoring a minor or adding someone to an existing application, you are unaffected by the cap.

Why Is Quebec Doing This?

The decision is about more than just managing immigration numbers. Quebec aims to ease housing demand, particularly in urban areas. With increasing rents and housing shortages, controlling immigration growth is a strategy to stabilize the market.

What Should Applicants Do Next?

If you planned to submit a sponsorship application for a spouse, partner, or adult child, you must wait until June 2026. Those with applications already in progress or falling under exempt categories can continue as usual. For those impacted, consider these steps:

• Monitor official updates from MIFI for any changes or potential early reopening of the application window.
• Consult with immigration experts to explore alternative pathways or clarify your eligibility under the new rules.
• Prepare your documentation early to ensure readiness for the reopening of applications.

Final Thoughts

This two-year cap in Quebec significantly impacts Canadian citizens and permanent residents wishing to bring adult family members to Canada. It’s vital to assess your eligibility, stay informed about exemptions, and plan according to this timeline.

If you find yourself affected, consider consulting a licensed immigration consultant or explore sponsorship options through the federal pathway in another province.