Maple News reports that international students planning to study in Canada at the post-secondary level may now need to submit a new document — a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) — as part of their study permit application. This new requirement, introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), marks a significant shift in Canada’s study permit process in 2024.
As of late January, most new college and undergraduate-level applicants must include a PAL in addition to their Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). The PAL serves as evidence that the student’s acceptance falls within the provincial or territorial allocation under the federal cap on study permits. This national cap is part of broader reforms aimed at managing the growing volume of international students in Canada more sustainably.
IRCC has mandated that all provinces and territories establish mechanisms for issuing PALs by March 31, 2024. Discussions are ongoing with the Government of Quebec to determine if the existing Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) can serve as a PAL equivalent.
According to updated guidance from IRCC, a PAL is required for:
– Most new post-secondary applicants (including undergraduate and college study programs)
– Applicants to most non-degree granting graduate programs, such as certificate or diploma programs
– Any international student not specifically exempted by IRCC
However, several categories are exempt from this requirement. These include:
– Primary and secondary school students
– Master’s and Ph.D. students
– In-Canada visiting or exchange students at DLIs
– Current study or work permit holders seeking extensions
– In-Canada family members of permit holders
– Students approved for a permit before the regulation took effect
– Applications submitted before 8:30 a.m. EST, January 22, 2024
IRCC has emphasized that any study permit applications submitted without a required PAL will be returned. This means prospective students who fall under the requirement must secure the document from their chosen province or territory before submitting their application.
This change is one element in a broader strategy by the Canadian government to protect the integrity of the international education system and promote a manageable pace of population growth. The national cap and PAL requirement aim to ensure that institutions, communities, and services can sustainably accommodate incoming students.
Maple News will continue to provide timely updates on immigration measures impacting international students and newcomers to Canada.