Lead: Beginning January 22, 2024, Canada introduced Provincial Attestation Letters as a mandatory requirement for most international study permit applications. Here's everything you need to know about obtaining and using a PAL.
In response to Canada’s housing crisis and the need to better regulate international student enrollment, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented a significant change in the study permit application process. This new requirement, the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), serves as a crucial document demonstrating that an applicant falls within the national cap on international students.
What is a Provincial Attestation Letter?
A PAL is an official document issued by Canadian provinces to verify that a student’s application fits within the allocated international student quota. This system, implemented in early 2024, helps manage the distribution of study permits across different regions while ensuring sustainable growth in the international education sector.
Eligibility Requirements
Who Needs a PAL?
Most international students pursuing the following programs must obtain a PAL:
- Certificate and diploma programs
- Undergraduate degrees
- Any study programs exceeding 6 months
Key Exemptions
Several categories of students are exempt from the PAL requirement, including:
- Graduate students (Master’s and PhD programs)
- Elementary and secondary school students
- Exchange and visiting students
- Students extending existing study permits
- Certain temporary residents and their family members
Obtaining Your Provincial Attestation Letter
The process of obtaining a PAL is institution-driven rather than student-initiated. Your designated learning institution (DLI) will handle the application process on your behalf. Each province maintains its own system for processing PAL requests:
Timeline of Provincial Implementation
- Ontario: System active as of March 28, 2024
- British Columbia: Launched March 4, 2024
- Alberta: Began issuing PALs March 1, 2024
- Quebec: Integrated with CAQ system since February 13, 2024
- Other provinces: Systems implemented throughout March 2024
Important Considerations
When applying for your study permit with a PAL, keep in mind:
- PALs issued in 2024 typically expire on January 21, 2025
- Applications submitted without a required PAL will be returned
- Each province has unique processing systems and timelines
- Direct communication with your educational institution is essential
Moving Forward
For international students planning to study in Canada, understanding the PAL requirement is crucial for a successful study permit application. Stay in close contact with your chosen educational institution, as they will guide you through the process and ensure you receive the necessary documentation. Remember that while this new requirement adds an extra step to the application process, it’s designed to create a more sustainable and manageable international education system in Canada.