The PEQ closed to new applications in November 2025. Québec work experience and diplomas still score points under the PSTQ (up to 160 and 200 respectively) but no longer grant near-automatic eligibility. Every candidate now goes through Arrima ranking.
- PEQ status
- Closed to new applications (Nov 2025)
- PSTQ status
- Active skilled-worker route
- QC work pts
- Up to 160 under PSTQ
- QC diploma pts
- Up to 200 under PSTQ
PEQ vs PSTQ
The Programme de l'expérience québécoise (PEQ) closed to new applications in November 2025. If you're researching Québec immigration and keep finding PEQ content, here's what's actually current.
| PEQ (closed Nov 2025) | PSTQ (current) | |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Closed to new applications | Active: the only route for skilled workers |
| Selection method | Fast-track for qualifying Québec experience/diploma | Points-based ranking through Arrima, invitation-only |
| Québec experience | Could grant near-automatic eligibility | Scores points (up to 160) but doesn't bypass ranking |
| Québec diploma | Could grant near-automatic eligibility | Scores points (up to 200) but doesn't bypass ranking |
| Timeline predictability | Relatively predictable once eligible | Depends on being invited in a round |
If you were planning around the PEQ
The practical next step is the same as everyone else's: find your PSTQ stream, run the calculator, and check whether you clear the French gate for your stream.
PEQ closure questions
What people still ask after November 2025.
Can I still apply under the PEQ?
No new PEQ applications are accepted after the November 2025 closure. Skilled-worker selection now goes through the PSTQ and Arrima.
Do Québec diplomas still help?
Yes: they can score up to 200 points under the PSTQ. They no longer create a near-automatic selection path the way the PEQ did.