A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is required in
most new study permit applications submitted from outside Canada. IRCC requires
applicants to include a PAL to confirm that they have secured a study space
within the province or territory’s allocation cap.
If a PAL is required and not included at the time of
application, the study permit application may be returned or refused as
incomplete.
New Study Permit Applications from Outside Canada
In general, most international students applying for a new
study permit from outside Canada must include a valid PAL with their
application. This applies to students accepted into undergraduate, diploma,
certificate, and many graduate programs.
The PAL must be issued by the province or territory where
the designated learning institution is located and must match the details of
the Letter of Acceptance.
Applications Submitted from Inside Canada
Certain in-Canada applicants may also require a PAL,
particularly if they are applying for a new study permit at a different
institution or level of study. However, requirements can vary depending on the
applicant’s status and the nature of the application.
Students extending their study permit at the same designated
learning institution and at the same level of study may not always require a
new PAL, but this depends on current IRCC guidelines and provincial rules.
Each Application Requires Its Own PAL
A PAL is typically tied to a specific study permit
application. If a student defers their program, changes institutions, or submits
a new application after refusal, a new PAL may be required. The details on
the PAL must align with the institution and program listed in the study permit
forms.
Timing and Validity
PALs are generally valid for a limited period. Applicants
should confirm that the PAL is valid at the time the study permit application
is submitted. Submitting an expired or incorrect PAL can result in delays or
refusal.
Practical Closing
Because PAL requirements can change and vary depending on
the applicant’s situation, it is important to confirm whether a PAL is required
before submitting a study permit application. Ensuring the PAL, Letter of
Acceptance, and application forms are consistent can prevent avoidable
processing issues and delays.
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is a critical part of
most study permit applications from outside Canada. Ensuring you have the
correct and valid PAL, aligned with your Letter of Acceptance and application
forms, helps avoid delays or refusal.
A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation can
provide guidance to confirm PAL requirements and ensure your study permit
application is complete and compliant.
