Tsé QuébecImmigration in Quebec: From 1960 to Today
Immigration in Quebec: From 1960 to Today
Immigration is a fundamental pillar of Quebec's history and development. From the Quiet Revolution of the 1960s to today's labor shortage challenges, the province has developed a unique immigration policy in Canada, marked by the protection of the French language and the integration of newcomers into Quebec society.
The Quiet Revolution: Quebec Takes Control of Its Immigration
The Awakening of National Consciousness (1960-1968)
Before the 1960s, francophone Quebec was largely hostile to immigration, perceived as a threat to cultural and linguistic survival. The Quiet Revolution marked a major turning point. Quebec began to seriously worry about the linguistic integration of immigrants toward English.
It was in this context that in 1965, the Quebec government created the Quebec Immigration Service. Three years later, in 1968, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration was established.
Historic Canada-Quebec Agreements
From the Lang-Cloutier Agreement to the 1991 Accord
Between 1971 and 1991, the Quebec government renegotiated its powers four times:
The Lang-Cloutier Agreement (1971): The first agreement allowing Quebec to have representatives in Canadian embassies.
The Cullen-Couture Agreement (1978): Signed on February 20, 1978, this agreement transferred to Quebec the responsibility for selecting "independent" immigration candidates.
The Gagnon-Tremblay–McDougall Accord (1991): Signed on February 5, 1991, this accord remains the current legal framework. Quebec obtained:
- Exclusive selection of economic immigrants and refugees
- The Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ)
- An annual financial compensation for integration
- Complete responsibility for francization
Evolution of Countries of Origin
In 2024 (preliminary data):
- Cameroon: 15% (for the first time in the lead)
- France: 12%
- China: 8%
- Tunisia: 7%
- Algeria: 6%
Nearly 66% of immigrants admitted in 2023 could speak French.
Immigration Programs in Quebec
Economic immigration constitutes 69% of permanent admissions in 2024:
- The Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP)
- The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
- Business candidates
Family reunification represents 17% of admissions, and refugees 12%.
Francisation Québec
The establishment of Francisation Québec on June 1, 2023 constitutes the single point of access for French language learning services. French courses are free and include full-time, part-time, online, and specialized courses.
In 2024-2025, $104.4 million was invested in francization.
Recent Statistics
Key Figures for 2024
- 59,500 permanent immigrants admitted
- 616,600 non-permanent residents in Quebec
- 48% of permanent admissions to people who previously had temporary status
- Retention rate of 91% one year after admission
Current Challenges
Quebec faces a historic labor shortage and the challenge of regionalization: 68% of vacant positions are located outside Montreal. The economic integration of immigrants, recognition of foreign credentials, and maintaining French as the common language remain priorities for the coming years.