The City of Laval has unanimously passed a resolution calling for a grandfather clause for immigrants already living in Quebec. Introduced by Mayor Stéphane Boyer, the motion addresses residents affected by the recent closure of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), a fast-track residency stream. Local officials are asking the Legault government to "explicitly recognize Laval's unique economy and its specific capacity to welcome newcomers" when applying immigration laws. They argue that one-size-fits-all policies make it harder to attract talent and create uncertainty for local businesses.

The PEQ, which offered a quick path to permanent residency for people who had lived in Quebec for at least two years and met language requirements, was abolished on November 19. It was replaced by the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ). While the provincial government promises that applications filed before the deadline will follow the old rules, many people who planned to apply but had not yet met the requirements now find themselves "stuck."

Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge has refused to grant a grandfather clause, which would let people already in the system finish under the old rules. He argues the new PSTQ allows the province to select candidates based on specific labor needs rather than a "first come, first served" basis. Municipal leaders in Montreal and Quebec City Mayor Bruno Marchand have also joined the call for a grandfather clause. Meanwhile, the province plans to admit roughly 29,000 economic immigrants through the new PSTQ system this year.