Quick Answer
Quebec extends special work permits to spouses of applicants for permanent selection.
What Changed
As of June 5, 2026, spouses and common-law partners of applicants for permanent selection in Quebec are eligible for special work permits through a new temporary public policy. This policy aims to facilitate the process for those waiting for their permanent residence application to be processed. You should know that this policy applies equally to foreign nationals who are out of status or on a different status than a foreign worker and are applying for restoration of status along with their work permit application.
The principal applicant must have been invited to apply for permanent selection through Quebec’s Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) and must have submitted a Demande de sélection permanente (DSP) to the province of Quebec. There are three situations in which the principal applicant qualifies: holding a valid work permit set to expire on or before December 31, 2026, having maintained status for a Quebec employer, or having held an employer-specific work permit that expired in 2026 after March 13.
You need to understand that the policy, titled “Temporary public policy to facilitate work permits for prospective permanent residence candidates in Quebec and their spouses and common-law partners,” was published on the immigration department’s website on June 5, 2026, and took effect on the same date. This means it applies to all applications received on or after June 5, 2026, and to applications pending on June 5, 2026, including applications received under the earlier temporary public policy.
| Situation | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Valid work permit | Holds a valid employer-specific work permit for a Quebec employer, set to expire on or before December 31, 2026, and has submitted an application to extend their work permit with the same employer. |
| Maintained status | Has work authorization through maintained status for a Quebec employer for which they have submitted an application for extension of an employer-specific work permit, and they have submitted a subsequent work permit application for the same employer. |
| Expired work permit | Held an employer-specific work permit for a Quebec employer, which expired in 2026 after March 13, and has applied either for an extension of their stay or for restoration of status. |
Key Date
June 5, 2026, is the key date when the policy took effect and applies to all applications received on or after this date.
2026
Year when the policy took effect.
31
Day of December when the valid work permit must expire.
What This Means for Your Citizenship Test
While this update on Quebec’s special work permits might not directly impact the content of your Canadian citizenship test, understanding the context of Canadian immigration policies can help you better grasp the values and principles Canada stands for. Your citizenship test will cover topics such as Canadian history, government, rights, geography, and symbols, based on the “Discover Canada” study guide.
You should recognize that the test is a 20-question written multiple-choice knowledge test with a minimum passing score of 75% (15 of 20 correct). The test duration is 45 minutes, and you can take it online or in person at an IRCC office. Familiarizing yourself with the structure and content of the test will help you prepare effectively.
Given that the citizenship test does not include questions about specific immigration policies or updates, your focus should be on the broader aspects of Canadian society, history, and governance. However, staying informed about current events and policies can enrich your understanding of Canada’s diverse and inclusive society, which is an essential aspect of being a Canadian citizen.
Which Chapters in Discover Canada to Focus On
When preparing for your citizenship test, it’s crucial to thoroughly review the “Discover Canada” study guide. Chapters that might be particularly relevant given the context of immigration and diversity include Chapter 2: “Canada’s History,” which covers the early history of Canada and its development into the diverse nation it is today, and Chapter 5: “Canada’s Economy,” which touches upon the contributions of immigrants to Canada’s economy.
Additionally, Chapter 7: “Canada’s Justice System” and Chapter 8: “Canada’s History: Modern Canada” provide valuable insights into how Canada has evolved and the principles that guide its justice system and societal values. These chapters can help you understand the broader context of Canadian society and how it values diversity and inclusion.
Your Action Plan
- Start by reviewing the “Discover Canada” study guide thoroughly, focusing on chapters that cover Canadian history, government, and the justice system.
- Practice with sample test questions to get a feel for the format and content of the citizenship test.
- Stay informed about Canadian news and current events to deepen your understanding of Canadian society and values.
- Consider reaching out to a study group or a mentor who can guide you through the preparation process.
- Make sure to register for the test well in advance, as spots can fill up quickly, especially for in-person tests at IRCC offices.
Pro Tip
Use flashcards to memorize key dates, events, and concepts from Canadian history and government, which can be particularly helpful for recalling details during the test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many questions are on the Canadian citizenship test?
A: The Canadian citizenship test consists of 20 questions. You need to answer at least 15 questions correctly to pass, which means achieving a minimum score of 75%. The test is multiple-choice and written, with no oral component. You will have 45 minutes to complete the test, and it can be taken online or in person at an IRCC office.
Q: What is the format of the Canadian citizenship test?
A: The test is a written multiple-choice test. It covers various topics such as Canadian history, geography, government, and the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizens. The test is designed to assess your knowledge of Canada and your understanding of what it means to be a Canadian citizen. The questions are based on the content of the “Discover Canada” study guide, which is provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Q: How can I prepare for the Canadian citizenship test?
A: Preparation for the test involves studying the “Discover Canada” study guide, which covers the necessary knowledge about Canada. Practicing with sample test questions can also help you get familiar with the test format and content. Additionally, staying updated on Canadian news and events can provide a deeper understanding of Canadian society and values. You can find study materials and practice tests on the IRCC website or through other reputable sources.