Are you an international student planning to study in Canada? If so, you may have heard about the importance of Attestation Letter. Let’s explore what it is and who need one for their Study Permit applications!
What is Attestation Letter?
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is a new requirement for Study Permit starting January 22, 2024. Most students need to obtain a PAL for their Study Permit application from a Canadian province or territory. This document shows that the student falls under a provincial or territorial allocation within the yearly national cap on international students. Each province and territory will receive different allocation based on their population.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has indicated that they will return and will not consider any application without a PAL, unless the applicant is exempt.
Do You Need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) for Your Canadian Study Permit?
As an international student planning to study in Canada, it’s vital to understand the new Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) requirement. This requirement, introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), affects most international students applying for a study permit. Let’s break down who needs a PAL and who is exempt to ensure you’re well-prepared for your application.
Who Needs a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)?
Generally, if you’re applying for a new study permit for post-secondary studies, you’ll likely need a PAL. Specifically, a PAL is required for:
- Most Post-Secondary Study Permit Applicants: This encompasses the majority of students applying to colleges and universities for undergraduate programs, diplomas, and certificates.
- Most Non-Degree Granting Graduate Programs: If you’re pursuing a graduate-level program that doesn’t result in a degree (e.g., graduate certificates and diplomas), you’ll also need a PAL.
Who is Exempt from the PAL Requirement?
There are several categories of students who do not need to obtain a PAL. These include:
- Primary and Secondary School Students: If you’re coming to Canada to attend elementary or high school, you are exempt from the PAL requirement.
- Master’s or Doctoral Degree Students: Students pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D. degree are not required to provide a PAL with their study permit application.
- In-Canada Visiting or Exchange Students Studying at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): If you’re already in Canada on a visiting or exchange program at a DLI, you don’t need a PAL.
- In-Canada Study Permit and Work Permit Holders: If you already hold a valid study permit or work permit in Canada, including those applying for a study permit extension, you are exempt.
- In-Canada Family Members of Study Permit or Work Permit Holders: Family members of individuals holding a valid study permit or work permit in Canada are also exempt from the PAL requirement.
- Students with Approved Study Permits: If your study permit has already been approved, and you’re planning to travel to Canada for your upcoming program, you do not need a PAL.
- Early Applicants: If IRCC received your study permit application before 8:30 a.m. EST on January 22, 2024, you are not required to provide a PAL.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations:
The PAL requirement is a significant change to the Canadian study permit application process. It’s essential to determine whether you need a PAL based on your specific circumstances. Here are some key recommendations:
- Consult the IRCC Website: Always refer to the official IRCC website for the most up-to-date information and guidance on the PAL requirement.
- Contact Your Designated Learning Institution (DLI): Your DLI can provide guidance on obtaining a PAL, if required. They should be able to provide information on the process specific to the province or territory where your institution is located.
- Start Your Application Early: Given the new requirement, it’s advisable to start your study permit application well in advance to allow ample time to obtain the necessary documents.
By understanding the PAL requirements and taking the necessary steps, you can ensure a smooth and successful study permit application process. Remember to stay informed and seek guidance from official sources to navigate this new regulation effectively.
How to obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter?
IRCC requires all Canadian provinces and territories to establish a process for issuing PALs to international students by March 31, 2024.
British Columbia and Alberta were the first two provinces to implement their processes. Other provinces and territories are expected to follow shortly and announce their processes by the March 31 deadline. Yes Study will update as soon as the provinces’ processes are known.
Conclusion:
Due to the strict requirement from IRCC, an Attestation Letter is crucial to help you obtain a Study Permit and start your academic journey in Canada. Moreover, understanding the process and complying with regulations are essential for your smooth navigation of educational experience.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Yes Study for free consultation. We are here to support you!
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