Quebec Freezes Spousal and Adult Child Sponsorships Until 2026 After Reaching Intake Limit
Quebec Halts Family Sponsorships Until 2026 After Reaching Cap
The Quebec government has announced a sudden freeze on new sponsorship applications for spouses, common-law and conjugal partners, and dependent children over 18 years of age, citing that the province has reached its limit for this intake period. As of July 9, 2025, any new requests in these categories will no longer be accepted until the next intake period opens in June 2026.
What Led to the Suspension?
The cap was part of a two-year plan, introduced on June 26, 2024, that set strict quotas on family sponsorships in Quebec. The total number of sponsorship undertakings permitted from June 2024 to June 2026 is 13,000, divided into two major groups:
- 10,400 spots reserved for sponsoring spouses, partners, and dependent children aged 18 or older
- 2,600 spots allocated for parents, grandparents, and other eligible relatives
The quota for spousal and adult child sponsorships has now been met, prompting the suspension. Any new applications submitted under these categories will be returned unprocessed, and all associated fees will be refunded.
What Remains Open?
- Sponsorship of dependent children under 18
- Cases involving adult children with disabilities
- Addition of family members to an existing sponsorship application
Applications to sponsor parents, grandparents, and other eligible relatives are also still being accepted, as their cap has not yet been filled.
Quebec’s Distinct Immigration Process
- Receiving federal approval from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
- Signing a legal undertaking specific to Quebec
- Obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) from the provincial ministry
This dual-approval system often leads to unique policy changes, such as the current suspension.
What's Next for Affected Families?
- Waiting until the new intake period opens in late June 2026
- Exploring alternate immigration pathways, such as economic or humanitarian programs
- Consulting immigration professionals for tailored advice, especially if the applicant resides outside Quebec
Final Thoughts
