As of January 22, 2024, IRCC has announced that most students will need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province or territory where they plan to study. Study permit applications submitted without a PAL after 8:30 AM (PST) on January 22, 2024, will be rejected.
There are a few exemptions from the PAL requirement, including:
- You are in Canada with a valid study permit
- You are in Canada with a valid work permit
- You are applying for a study permit extension
- You are a temporary resident permit holder with a permit that’s valid for at least 6 months
- You are a permanent resident
Find out if you are exempt from needing a PAL.
PAL's will be issued by VFS as early as 6 months prior to your start date. Please fill out the form below to request your PAL.
*Note: applicants with US citizenship can apply for a study permit at any port of entry and do not need to apply for a study permit in advance.
PAL Request Form
You must complete this digital form; handwritten submissions will not be accepted. All forms must be emailed to: PALrequest@vfs.com.
You will receive your PAL within 3 business days of submitting your request. If you have any questions about requesting a Provincial Attestation Letter, please contact your VFS Admissions Advisor.