Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) for Study Permits
Starting in 2024, most study permit applicants need to provide a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or a Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) as part of their application process. This requirement ensures that applicants have the necessary documentation to study in Canada at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
What is a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)?
A Provincial Attestation Letter is an official document provided by the province or territory where your designated learning institution is located. It confirms that you have been accepted into a recognized educational program and that you meet the necessary requirements to study in Canada.
When is a PAL required?
You must submit a PAL with your study permit application unless you meet one of the following exceptions:
- You are applying to study at a preschool, primary school (including kindergarten), or secondary school (up to grade 12).
- You are applying to a federally designated military college.
- You are studying in Quebec in a vocational training program leading to a diploma of vocational studies (DVS), an attestation of vocational specialization (AVS), or a skills training certificate (STC).
- You are applying for a Master's or Doctoral degree program.
- You have received a scholarship from Global Affairs Canada.
- You are exempt based on a public policy as part of a migration response to a crisis or other pressure.
- You are applying for a study permit extension or to restore your status within Canada.
- You have a work permit (unless obtained through International Experience Canada).
- You are a temporary resident in Canada (e.g., visiting or exchange student, temporary resident permit holder, protected person, or eligible for permanent residence based on humanitarian and compassionate grounds).
Validity of a PAL
Your PAL only needs to be valid at the time of application submission. Unless it has an explicit expiry date, it remains valid until January 21, 2025. You can reuse the same PAL for resubmission if it is still valid.
Obtaining a PAL
To obtain a PAL, contact your designated learning institution. They will guide you on how to apply and provide the necessary documentation.
Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ)
If you plan to study in Quebec, you need an attestation of issuance of your Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ), issued by the Government of Quebec. The CAQ must include the following line: “This attestation letter confirms that the applicant has a place in Quebec’s share of the distribution of study permit applications or is exempt from it.” CAQs issued before 8:30 a.m. ET on January 22, 2024, do not require this line.
For detailed information, visit the IRCC Provincial Attestation Letter page.
Who doesn't need a PAL?
You don’t need a PAL if you fall under any of the following categories:
- Studying at a preschool, primary, or secondary school.
- Enrolled in a federally designated military college.
- Enrolled in specific vocational training programs in Quebec.
- Pursuing a Master's or Doctoral degree.
- Receiving a Global Affairs Canada scholarship.
- Exempt based on a public policy or humanitarian grounds.
- Already in Canada with a study permit extension or status restoration.
- Holding a work permit or being a temporary resident under specific conditions.
For detailed information, visit the IRCC Provincial Attestation Letter page.
Plan Your Educational Journey with Confidence
At SAAB Immigration Services Inc., we understand the importance of strategic planning for your future in Canada. We provide tailored guidance to help you choose the right educational path, navigate the study permit process, and prepare for long-term immigration goals. Our services ensure you’re equipped to make informed decisions and succeed in Canada’s competitive job market.
Stay informed about changes in Canadian immigration policies and prepare accordingly. PR pathways evolve, and staying proactive ensures you’re ready to meet immigration requirements. Book an appointment with us to start planning your educational journey and future in Canada.