New study reveals impact of temporary immigrants on Quebec's job market

Tashi Farmilo

In a recent report released by the Institut du Québec, researchers have delved into the profound effects of temporary immigrants on the job market in Quebec. The study, titled "The Impact of Temporary Immigrants on the Job Market in Quebec: Understanding to Act Better," provides a comprehensive analysis of the growing presence of temporary immigrants and its implications for the province's socioeconomic landscape.

The report highlights a significant increase in the number of temporary immigrants in Quebec, with figures soaring from 360,936 in the last quarter of 2022 to 528,034 in the same period of 2023. This surge has not only altered the demographics of immigration in the province but also reshaped the job market.

One of the key findings of the study is the role of temporary immigration in driving the growth of the labour pool. Between 2015 and 2023, the expansion of the potential workforce in Quebec relied entirely on immigration, both permanent and temporary. However, the sharp rise in temporary immigration in 2023 has been a game-changer, with the active population increasing by nearly 100,000, a stark contrast to the annual average of 39,000 observed between 2015 and 2022.

Temporary immigration has provided a partial solution to labour shortages in various sectors. Industries such as manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, and accommodation and food services have seen a significant influx of temporary workers. However, the report also points out that temporary immigrants are underrepresented in critical sectors like health and social assistance and construction, where recruitment challenges are more pronounced.

The study also sheds light on specific programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (PTET) and the International Mobility Program (PMI), which play pivotal roles in bringing temporary workers to Quebec. The PTET, in particular, has seen a dramatic increase in permits issued, with a notable shift toward more diversified profiles, including skilled professionals in technology and manufacturing sectors.

The report underscores the need for a re-evaluation of Quebec's temporary immigration model. It suggests that better anticipation and regulation of temporary immigration, alignment of immigration policies, and improved data collection are essential steps towards leveraging temporary immigration for sustainable economic development and quality job creation in Quebec.

The researchers recommend the following:

Better Anticipation and Regulation of Temporary Immigration: Quebec can enhance its ability to anticipate and regulate migratory movements, especially since they largely result from measures implemented by federal and provincial governments.

Alignment of Permanent and Temporary Immigration Policies: It is crucial to integrate an analysis of temporary immigration data into the reflection on permanent immigration thresholds at every stage to ensure coherence between the two.

Matching Temporary Immigrants' Profiles with Strategic Sectors: A better alignment should be achieved between temporary immigration programs and sectors deemed strategic for Quebec, particularly in health and construction, where current needs are pressing.

Improving Data on Temporary Immigrants: Leveraging administrative information collected during the immigration process and data held by the Canada Revenue Agency could provide more comprehensive and current insights into the reality of temporary immigrants on a regular basis.

Photo caption: In a report published by the Institut du Québec, researchers have explored the significant impact of temporary immigrants on Quebec's job market. 

Photo credit: Courtesy of the Institut du Québec