10. October 2025 Admin

Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): What Every Applicant Should Know (2025/2026 Guide)

If you’re planning to study in Canada in 2025 or later, you’ll likely come across the term Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). Since early 2024, this document has become a mandatory requirement for most international students applying for a Canadian study permit. Here’s a complete breakdown of what a PAL is, why it’s important, and how to get one.

Quick Note: Without a valid PAL, your study permit application will not be processed by IRCC — unless you fall under an exempt category.

1. What Is a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)?

A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is an official document issued by a Canadian province or territory confirming that your study permit application is counted within their designated international student intake cap. It ensures that provinces manage how many international students they admit each year.

2. Why Was the PAL Introduced?

The Canadian government introduced the PAL system in 2024 to promote balanced growth of international student enrollment across provinces, address housing shortages, and ensure schools maintain quality education standards. It’s part of Canada’s effort to make the international education system more sustainable and transparent.

3. Who Needs a PAL?

Most international students applying for a study permit at the undergraduate or college level are required to submit a PAL. However, you are exempt if you fall into one of these categories:

Applying for a master’s, doctoral, or post-graduate program
Renewing your study permit while already in Canada
Studying in a primary or secondary (K–12) institution
Family members of temporary workers or permanent residents

4. How to Get a PAL

You don’t apply for a PAL directly. After receiving an offer of admission from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), the institution will request the PAL from the provincial government on your behalf. Once approved, they’ll send you the PAL letter, which you must include in your study permit application to IRCC.

Step 1: Receive your letter of acceptance (LOA) from a Canadian DLI.
Step 2: Your school applies for a PAL through the provincial portal.
Step 3: Wait for your PAL approval (may take 2–6 weeks depending on the province).
Step 4: Submit your PAL along with your study permit application.

5. How Long Does It Take to Receive a PAL?

Processing times vary by province. Some provinces issue PALs within two weeks, while others may take longer depending on demand. For example, Ontario and British Columbia have experienced higher application volumes, leading to slower processing times compared to smaller provinces like Manitoba or Saskatchewan.

6. What If Your PAL Application Is Delayed?

If your PAL hasn’t arrived before your study permit deadline, contact your DLI’s international office immediately. Some institutions can provide an interim letter confirming your PAL request is pending — but you cannot submit your study permit application without the final PAL.

7. Can You Change Schools After Receiving a PAL?

If you decide to switch institutions after getting your PAL, you may need to obtain a new one since the PAL is linked to a specific school and province. Always check with both your new institution and IRCC before making any changes.

Conclusion

The Provincial Attestation Letter is now a crucial part of the Canadian study permit process. Understanding its role and applying early will help you avoid unnecessary delays. Work closely with your institution and monitor your province’s PAL processing updates to ensure a smooth application experience.

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Reminder: Always confirm PAL requirements with your province and institution before submitting your study permit application.

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