Essential Information Regarding the IRCC Provincial Attestation Letter

Opting to pursue studies in Canada and embarking on the application process is typically a mix of anticipation and anxiety. However, aspiring students are now encountering confusion due to a novel prerequisite: Provincial Attestation Letters. Thus, this post aims to elucidate this recent requirement, facilitating a smoother progression in your study permit application.

What is the Provincial Attestation Letter?

In response to Canada’s housing crisis and other challenges within the international student program, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced an additional document requirement for study permit applicants: The Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL).

This new requirement stems from the international student cap implemented in Canada in January 2024. Each province is tasked with issuing the PAL to study permit applicants. This document serves to indicate that the study permit application falls within the national cap on international students, which came into effect in January 2024. Essentially, the PAL confirms that the province has not exceeded its allocated quota for accepting students in that particular year.

For study permit applicants who are not exempt and fail to include a PAL with their submission, their application will be returned along with their fees. This underscores the importance of complying with this new requirement to ensure the smooth processing of study permit applications.

Who Needs a Provincial Attestation Letter?

All study permits applicants who are not exempt (further details below) are required to furnish a PAL with their application. This encompasses, but is not restricted to, international students seeking admission to the following programs:

• Certificate and diploma programs.
• Undergraduate degrees.
• Study programs extending beyond 6 months in duration.

It’s imperative for applicants falling within these categories to adhere to the PAL requirement to facilitate the processing of their study permit applications.

Who Doesn’t Need a Provincial Attestation Letter?

The Provincial Attestation Letter requirement does not apply to the following categories of international students:

• Preschool, elementary, and secondary school students.
• Master’s and PhD students.
• Students seeking a study permit extension.
• Visiting or exchange students.
• Temporary residents undertaking a prerequisite course or program of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), such as language courses.
• Individuals in Canada under a removal order.
• Individuals possessing a temporary resident permit with a validity of at least 6 months.

Individuals who are family members of a foreign national residing in Canada, provided the latter holds a study permit, work permit, temporary resident permit valid for at least 6 months, is a member of the armed forces of another country under the Visiting Forces Act, an accredited foreign government representative, a participant in specific sports activities or events, a worker in Canada affiliated with a foreign news company, or a religious worker.

How to Get a Provincial Attestation Letter?

It’s crucial to understand that the responsibility of obtaining a Provincial Attestation Letter rests with the educational institution, not the individual applicant. Applicants will not directly apply for this document.

Each province will establish its own procedures and systems for handling Provincial Attestation Letter applications. Here’s what we currently understand about the process for obtaining a Provincial Attestation Letter:

1. Ontario Provincial Attestation Letter:

Ontario has not yet officially disclosed details regarding the procedure for obtaining a Provincial Attestation Letter to study in the province. However, according to information provided on the Ontario Colleges webpage, the process is outlined as follows:

“During the application process, the post-secondary institution will initiate a request for a PAL on your behalf. Once this request is approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and the PAL becomes available, you will be notified by the institution. Subsequently, you will receive a copy of the letter. It’s important to note that the notification and sharing process may vary for each institution.”

2.British Columbia Provincial Attestation Letter:

As of March 4, 2024, British Columbia’s Provincial Attestation Letter issuance system has been activated. It’s crucial to understand that this system is intended for use by educational institutions, not by study permit applicants directly. Therefore, if you require further information regarding the process of receiving a PAL in British Columbia, it’s advisable to contact the educational institution to which you have applied. They will be able to provide you with the necessary details and guidance regarding the PAL application process.

3.Alberta Provincial Attestation Letter:

The Provincial Attestation Letter issuance commenced on March 1, 2024. Alberta’s study webpage specifies that post-secondary institutions will initiate the request for a Provincial Attestation Letter on behalf of accepted students. For further inquiries or details regarding obtaining a PAL for Alberta, individuals are advised to reach out to the registrar of the institution they have been accepted to.

4. Quebec Provincial Attestation Letter:

An updated letter certifying the issuance of the Québec Acceptance Certificate for studies has been issued since February 13, 2024. This letter facilitates candidates’ applications for study permits in Canada.

5. Manitoba Provincial Attestation Letter:

The Provincial Attestation Letter system for Manitoba became operational on March 4, 2024. Individuals seeking a PAL for Manitoba are instructed to contact their educational institution before applying for a study permit.

6. Saskatchewan’s Provincial Attestation Letter:

Saskatchewan’s system for issuing Provincial Attestation Letters commenced on March 13, 2024. As with other provinces, individuals in need of a Provincial Attestation Letter in Saskatchewan should directly contact their university, college, or other educational provider, as they will be responsible for applying for the PAL on their behalf.

At Sinesoft Education, we go beyond being mere education consultants; we become your partners in shaping your future. Allow us to assist you in navigating the complexities of the Canada student visa application process, empowering you to pursue your academic goals with confidence.

Reach out to us today, and let’s work together to turn your dreams of international education into reality.