Skip to main content
All CollectionsScreening and Support
Understanding Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs): Verification and Access for Students and Guides
Understanding Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs): Verification and Access for Students and Guides

Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs) are critical documents for international students applying for study permits in Canada. This article outlines what PALs are, the process for obtaining them, and key actions to ensure their accuracy and validity.

Updated this week

Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs)

Provinces and territories issue Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs) to international students as official documentation. This letter acts as proof that the student has:

  • A credible admission to an institution.

  • Been included in the provincial or territorial allocation under Canada’s national cap for international students.

Most study permit applicants are required to provide a PAL (or its equivalent, a Territorial Attestation Letter, TAL) as part of their application process. These letters play a crucial role in validating the student’s status and ensuring compliance with immigration and allocation policies.

PAL Request Process by Schools

Timing of PAL Release

  • With Offer Letters: Some schools issue the PAL along with the offer letter.

  • Post-Request: Others require a formal request, typically processing and issuing the PAL within a week.

    • If it takes longer than a week, please contact the support team at [email protected] for further assistance.

Responsibility for Verification

Both the student and the guide must ensure all information on the PAL is accurate, including personal details, program details, and dates.

PAL Expiry Date

  • The expiry date is clearly mentioned on the PAL. Ensure you are aware of this date to avoid complications.

For Deferred Students

  • If you were deferred from a previous intake, your PAL might remain valid for the next term.

  • Verify the expiry date and program details before requesting a new PAL to avoid unnecessary delays.

Required Actions

  1. Verify PAL Details:

    • Check personal and program information, including expiry dates, for accuracy.

    • Confirm validity if deferred to ensure the existing PAL can still be used.

  2. Report Delays or Errors:

    • Notify the support team at [email protected] if the PAL has not been issued within a week or if any errors are found.

  3. Stay Updated:

    • Regularly check the IRCC website for updates to the PAL process or requirements.

Note: The information in this article is accurate as of today and may be subject to change. Please refer to the IRCC website for the latest updates.

Did this answer your question?