06/17/2026
MORE DETAILS ABOUT PEQ 2.0 are gradually emerging,
and it is becoming clear that this relaunch will bring both complications for those who may be able to meet the program requirements and major disappointment for those who will not.
Below, I refer to the PEQ stream for workers. Graduates are a separate topic and will be covered separately.
So, what do we know as of today?
To meet the program requirements, you must:
𝐀.
[have two years of skilled full-time work experience as of November 19, 2025]
+
[have two years of skilled full-time work experience within the three years preceding the application]
Yes, this exact combination applies under the program.
What does this mean in practice?
If you have full-time work experience from November 2023 to November 2025, it does not matter exactly when you apply during the first intake period. You could submit your application as late as October 2026.
BUT!
If you need to use work experience obtained before November 2023, you are limited by the date of application minus three years.
In other words, if you submit your application in August 2026, you may additionally use experience obtained between August and November 2023. Any earlier experience will not count.
𝐁.
Be working full-time in a qualified occupation at the time of submission. Although we do not yet have direct confirmation, there is a possibility that this requirement may also apply at the time of the decision. In other words, MIFI could theoretically request updated documents, especially if applications take many months to process.
𝐂.
Demonstrate the required level of French for both the principal applicant and their spouse or partner.
These are the main rules, without addressing the details of individual situations.
✱ ✱ ✱
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Do not rush, but do not delay either. I understand that this may sound contradictory, but this is exactly the right approach:
- do not try to submit your application on July 2 at any cost; there is little reason to do so, since there is no numerical cap, the intake period ends in October, and the forms will most likely continue to change;
- do not wait too long either; carefully verify whether you meet the program requirements and, if you do, prepare the application thoroughly before submitting it. Details are extremely important, and mistakes may have serious consequences.
Do not hesitate to contact me for further questions!
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant
Dimitri Rudko, RCIC