Provincial attestation letter from the province or territory where you plan to study
Obtaining a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
Most students intending to study in Canada are required to obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province or territory where they plan to study. The process for obtaining a PAL varies depending on the location of the educational institution.
Alberta
- Alberta provincial attestation letters are now available.
- Effective March 1, 2024, the PAL process for Alberta is operational.
- To apply for a PAL in Alberta, students should contact their respective schools. Once obtained, the PAL can be used to apply for a study permit to study in Alberta.
British Columbia
- British Columbia provincial attestation letters are now accessible.
- As of March 4, 2024, the PAL process for British Columbia is active.
- Students planning to study in British Columbia should reach out to their schools for guidance on applying for a PAL. Subsequently, the PAL can be utilized for a study permit application.
Manitoba
- Manitoba provincial attestation letters are currently obtainable.
- The PAL process for Manitoba was implemented on March 4, 2024.
- Prospective students should liaise with their schools to initiate the PAL application process. Upon receiving the PAL, they can proceed with applying for a study permit in Manitoba.
Quebec
- For students intending to study in Quebec, an attestation of issuance of the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) is required. This document is issued by the Government of Quebec.
- To acquire the CAQ acting as a provincial attestation letter, students must ensure it includes the specified line confirming their place in Quebec’s study permit application distribution or exemption from it.
Other Provinces and Territories
- Each province and territory is developing processes to issue PALs, expected to be operational by March 31, 2024.
- Updates on PAL procedures from different regions will be provided as information becomes available.
By following these guidelines and contacting your school or relevant authorities, you can successfully obtain the necessary Provincial Attestation Letter for your Canadian study permit application.
Who doesn’t need a provincial attestation letter:
Based on the information provided in the sources, individuals who do not need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) when applying for a study permit in Canada include:
Those applying to study in a preschool, primary school, or secondary school (up to grade 12).
Individuals applying to study in a master’s degree or doctoral degree program.
Applicants who have entered Canada and fall under specific circumstances such as: