What is the Quebec PEQ repeal and why does it matter?

The Quebec PEQ repeal ended a popular fast-track pathway for skilled workers to obtain Quebec selection. This change redirected many francophone candidates toward Canada Express Entry. It matters because it shifts where talent settles, affecting wages, hiring timelines, and rental demand across provinces, with notable implications for Manitoba and Ontario.

How does this affect Canada Express Entry outcomes?

With the Quebec PEQ repeal, more Quebec-based francophones apply to federal French-language Express Entry rounds. Greater applicant volume can increase invitations outside Quebec, steering newcomers to provinces with quicker hiring and strong services. Investors should watch draw frequency and cut-offs, which influence regional labour supply and short-term wage trends.

Why is the Manitoba labour market a likely winner?

Manitoba offers jobs in health care, customer service, and manufacturing, plus francophone communities that support newcomers. The Quebec PEQ repeal pushes candidates to seek faster routes and broader options, which can shorten vacancy durations in Manitoba. Near term, this also adds rental demand around workplaces and campuses linked to French-language services.

What risks do Quebec employers face after the policy change?

Quebec employers may see higher turnover as candidates pursue federal routes and settle elsewhere. The Quebec PEQ repeal can raise costs for signing bonuses, bilingual premiums, and contractors, and extend hiring timelines. This pressure may delay projects in regulated fields and strain service delivery in public-facing sectors that require French proficiency.

Law and Government

February 21: Quebec PEQ Repeal Spurs Francophone Talent Shift to Manitoba

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 21, 2026February 21, 2026

Quebec PEQ repeal is reshaping francophone immigration flows across Canada. Radio-Canada reports applications from Quebec to federal French-language Express Entry rounds quadrupled in 2025, redirecting skilled workers to provinces like Manitoba and Ontario. For investors, this shift can move wages, vacancies, and housing demand at the regional level. We explain how Canada Express Entry dynamics interact with the Manitoba labour market, what risks Quebec employers face, and which policy signals to watch as the talent map changes after the Quebec PEQ repeal.