If you are planning to study in Canada in 2024, you probably have heard of the changes made to the processes. Effective from 22nd January, 2024, international students applying for a study visa will be required to get provincial attestation letters (PAL) to ensure their spot in the Canadian universities. But what is the Canada provincial attestation letter? In this article, you’ll learn what this document entails and how you can obtain one.
- What is the Canada provincial attestation letter?
Due to the housing and immigration crisis in Canada, the Canadian government has put a cap on the number of international students allowed in its universities. That said, the IRCC aims to accept 35% fewer students than in 2023. This means that not all who apply for admission and student visas will be granted access into the country. This is where the Canada provincial attestation letter (PAL) comes in. This document proves that an application has been allocated within the cap on international students. With a PAL, you can process your student visa without worrying about being rejected. All Canadian territories and provinces are required to determine how many international students they can admit, after which they will allocate the PALs. It’s also worth noting that the processes for acquiring one will be put out by each province on the 31st of March.
- Who needs a provincial attestation letter?
Due to the Canada 2024 reforms for international students, the following international students categories are required to get a provincial attestation letter:
Certificate and diploma programs
Study programs longer than six months
Undergraduate degrees.
It’s worth noting that international students who need a PAL but don’t provide theirs with their application will be denied admission, and have their fees refunded.
- Who doesn’t need a provincial attestation letter?
The following categories of people are exempt from acquiring a PAL:
Masters and PhD students
Visiting or exchange students
Primary and secondary level students who require a schooling visa
Students whose application was received before 8:30 am on the 22nd of January.
In-canada study and work permit holders (and their families).
- How can you get a provincial attestation letter?
You cannot directly apply for a PAL; it is the responsibility of your school to go through the process for you. It’s also worth noting that each province will establish its unique systems and processes for managing the applications. Here is some information on each province.
British Columbia
The PAL issuing system for British Columbia was launched on the 3rd of March, 2024. However, only the universities and other educational institutions can access it. That said, you should reach out to your school if you need more information on receiving your letter.
Ontario
While Ontario hasn’t released any information on getting a PAL, you can rest assured that your school will send a PAL request for you at some points during your application process, according to the Ontario Colleges website. You will receive a notification and copy of your letter from your school if the IRCC approves your request.
Manitoba
Manitoba’s PAL system went live on the 3rd of March. Therefore, contact your school for your letter. You should do this before applying for your student permit.
Alberta
Alberta’s government started issuing their PAL on the 1st of March. Like other provinces, you are required to contact your school to determine if you already received one.
The same process is also applicable to Quebec, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Speak to a professional today!
With the new processes in place, securing your spot as an international student in Canada can seem stressful. But you don’t have to do it alone. Achilinks Travel Consult can help you shed more light on the process of applying for your study permit and other processes. Give us a call today.
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