Study Permit

📝 What is a PAL?

A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is a formal document issued by the province or territory where your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is located. It confirms that your study permit application falls within the province’s federally allocated cap for international students.

📌 Who Needs a PAL?

If you are applying for a study permit outside Canada, you must include a PAL with your application — unless you fall under one of the following exemptions:

1. Kindergarten to Grade 12 students
2. Master’s and doctoral program applicants
3. Visiting or exchange students
4. Students already in Canada with a valid permit applying for an extension or change
5. Family members of certain temporary residents (e.g. Work permit holders under specific public policies)

⚠️ Note: Applications submitted without a required PAL will be refused.

How to Get a PAL?

Once you receive your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI, the institution will request a PAL on your behalf from the respective provincial or territorial government. You do not apply for the PAL directly. Processing times and requirements may vary by province.

At TNC Immigration, we stay updated with each province’s PAL issuance process to ensure you’re fully prepared and compliant.

Eligibility Criteria for a Study Permit

To be eligible for a study permit, you must meet the criteria outlined by IRCC, including:

1. Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), approved by the provincial or territorial government for international students.
2. Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) (if required based on your program and location).
3. Proof of intent to leave Canada upon expiry of your study permit.
4. Financial proof demonstrating ability to: Pay tuition fees. Cover living expenses for yourself and accompanying family members. Afford return transportation for all family members.
5. Pay tuition fees.
6. Cover living expenses for yourself and accompanying family members.
7. Afford return transportation for all family members.
8. No criminal record and willingness to provide police certificates if required.
9. Good health and willingness to complete a medical exam, if necessary.
10. Meet Canada’s general admissibility requirements
11. If planning to study in Quebec, obtain a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (QAC).