Quebec has temporarily paused new sponsorship applications under its Family Reunification Program until June 25, 2026. This suspension affects applications for spouses, common-law partners, and adult dependent children.
The decision comes after the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) reached the cap of 13,000 applications for the 2025 intake cycle. Of this total, 10,400 spots were allocated to spousal and dependent sponsorships, while 2,600 were set aside for parents and other eligible relatives.
🛑 What This Means:
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Applications submitted after July 9, 2025, will be returned unprocessed.
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New submissions will only be accepted starting June 25, 2026.
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The cap was managed on a first-come, first-served basis.
✅ Who Is Exempt from the Freeze?
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Unmarried dependent children under 18
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Adopted children
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Orphaned minors being sponsored by relatives
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Dependent adult children with disabilities
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Dependents already part of in-progress applications
These exemptions ensure vulnerable dependents are not left behind.
🏘️ Why the Suspension?
Quebec says the measure is aimed at balancing immigration with available housing and public services, particularly in major cities like Montreal, where the housing crunch is growing.
📝 What To Do Now:
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If affected, wait until June 25, 2026, to reapply.
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If exempt, proceed with your application as usual.
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Keep up with MIFI’s official updates and prepare your documents early for the next intake.