Quebec to automatically extend CAQs in view of COVID-19

On April 30, the province of Quebec in Canada announced an automatic extension of the duration of the Quebec Acceptance Certificate [CAQ] for studies. The CAQ is usually required by international students to pursue their higher education in Quebec.

The Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration [MIFI] is extending the duration of stay in Quebec of international students that have their CAQs expiring between April 30, 2020 and December 31, 2020.

The regulation will be applicable to foreign students whose CAQ had not expired already on April 30, 2020.

Quebec government has automatically extended CAQ with a view to facilitating the steps to be taken for international students in Quebec that were in the process of completing their study program but would have to extend their stay due to the impact of COVID-19. 

Such students – with their CAQ expiring between April 30 and December 31, 2020 – should submit an application to the federal government at the earliest.

The application to be submitted will be for the extension of their study permit without the need to include a new CAQ. This will allow them to maintain their valid temporary residence status in Quebec.

They will also be able to complete their study program on the resumption of their courses.

No fees is to be paid for the extension of their CAQ.

Foreign students that wish to extend their stay in Quebec for studies beyond December 31, 2020 – either for the completion of a study program or for beginning a new program for Fall semester – will have to submit a new CAQ for studies application. A new application will also have to be submitted with the federal government to get a study permit.

Quebec government advises international students to begin the necessary immigration procedures at least 3 months before the expiration of their current authorization for studies.

The automatic extension of CAQs announced on April 30 is not applicable to students wishing to procure a CAQ for the Fall semester or with a CAQ that will be expiring after December 31, 2020.

If you are looking to Work, Study, Invest, Visit, or Migrate to Canada, talk to Y-Axis, the World’s No. 1 Immigration & Visa Company.

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