For international students planning to study in Canada, the PAL and TAL, the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) and Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) have become key documents in the study permit process. Introduced by the Government of Canada to better manage international student admissions, these attestations ensure that each province or territory aligns with its annual student quota.
At International Business University (IBU), we guide students through every step of obtaining the documents they need to study in Canada, from securing a Provincial Attestation Letter to submitting a complete study permit application.
Key Takeaways
- The PAL and TAL are mandatory letters confirming a province’s or territory’s approval for your study permit under Canada’s international student cap.
- Students must apply through a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and receive their Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and PAL/TAL before applying for a study permit.
- Certain applicants, such as scholarship recipients and postgraduate students, are eligible for provincial attestation letter exemptions under specific conditions.
What Is a Provincial Attestation Letter or Territorial Attestation Letter?
The Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) and Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) are confirmation documents issued by Canadian provinces or territories to international students accepted into an educational program. In January 2024, the Government of Canada introduced this requirement for most undergraduate and non-degree international students to help balance international enrollment across the country.
Each province or territory has its own allocation under the federal cap on study permits. When a PAL or TAL is issued, it confirms that your application counts toward that province’s or territory’s designated quota.
Students must include the attestation letter with their study permit applications, even for language programs, short-term academic certificates, or prerequisite courses. Without this document, a study permit application may be incomplete and subject to refusal.
Who Needs a PAL or TAL When Applying for a Study Permit in Canada?
A PAL or TAL is now required for most new international students applying to post-secondary programs in Canada. Whether you’re applying for an undergraduate program or a non-degree diploma, you’ll need to request one from your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) after receiving your offer of admission.
However, some applicants qualify for a provincial attestation letter exemption. These include:
- Students receiving a scholarship from Global Affairs Canada
- Exchange or temporary residents studying under an approved program
- Students applying for a study permit extension at the same DLI and level of study
- Applicants under a removal order who cannot currently leave Canada
- Individuals entering under a public policy exemption tied to humanitarian or migration efforts
- Holders of valid temporary resident permits (at least six months)
- Protected persons and individuals eligible for permanent residence on compassionate or humanitarian grounds
- Family members of Indigenous people affected by border separations
These exemptions ensure fairness for applicants whose circumstances already fall under special immigration categories.
How to Obtain a PAL and TAL for Study Permits in Canada
To obtain a PAL or TAL, students must first apply to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in their chosen province or territory. Once the application is accepted and all admission requirements are met, the institution will issue both a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and the applicable attestation letter.
The steps generally include:
- Apply to your preferred DLI program.
- Receive your LOA and PAL/TAL after approval.
- Pay any required admission deposits or tuition fees.
- Include the attestation letter in your study permit application.
Each province has its own processing structure and quota. For example, Ontario began issuing PALs in March 2024 under a provincial cap of 235,000 study permits, allocating 96% of its permits to public post-secondary institutions and 4% to private ones.
If you choose IBU, our admissions team will guide you through the full process, from application submission to receiving your LOA and PAL within approximately three business days after deposit confirmation.
Learn more about undergraduate application steps here and graduate-level requirements here.
Study Permit Application Validity and Required Documents
Your PAL or TAL is one part of a complete study permit application package. Before applying, ensure you have the following:
- Your PAL/TAL
- A valid Letter of Acceptance from your DLI
- Proof of identity (passport or travel document)
- Proof of financial support for tuition and living costs
Depending on your situation, you may also need:
- A letter of explanation for your intent to study in Canada
- A medical exam is required by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Once all documents are ready, you can submit your application online and provide biometrics. If approved, you’ll receive your study permit either upon arrival in Canada or by mail if you’re already in the country.
For a smoother experience, review IBU’s general admissions guide to understand the process clearly.
Ontario Provincial Attestation Letter Process
The Ontario Provincial Attestation Letter follows a structured review and allocation process managed by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. Ontario institutions are assigned a quota that determines how many PALs they can issue each academic year.
Applicants should be aware that processing times vary by institution and intake period. Typically, once your DLI confirms your admission, your PAL is processed within a few business days. Institutions prioritize applications based on completeness, available quota, and academic start date.
Applicants can check their status through their institution’s admissions portal and must include their proof of provincial or territorial attestation letter when applying for their study permit.
Provincial Attestation Letter Processing Time
The provincial attestation letter processing time can differ between provinces. Some regions issue these within a few days, while others may take several weeks, especially during high application periods.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid delays. It’s also helpful to keep communication open with your institution’s admissions department to ensure your documents meet federal and provincial requirements.
Processing time also depends on your academic intake; September and January intakes often have the highest demand.
Need help preparing your PAL and TAL documents?
IBU’s admissions team ensures every international student understands each step, from attestation letters to visa submissions.
Provincial Attestation Letter Exemption and Special Circumstances
Some students are eligible for provincial attestation letter exemptions, particularly those who already hold legal status in Canada or are applying under specific government policies. For instance, if you already possess a valid study permit and are extending your studies at the same DLI and academic level, you don’t need to reapply for a PAL or TAL.
Likewise, students under humanitarian, compassionate, or crisis-related public policies may also be exempt. Always confirm your eligibility with your DLI or through IRCC’s official channels before submitting your application.
Provincial Attestation Letter Sample
While each province or territory issues its own version, a provincial attestation letter sample generally includes:
- The student’s name and program of study
- The name of the Designated Learning Institution
- Confirmation that the student’s admission falls within the province’s allocation
- A reference or attestation number for IRCC verification
Institutions usually send the PAL electronically, which you then include as a PDF attachment in your permit application.
Proof of Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter
Proof of your provincial or territorial attestation letter is typically a digital PDF or printed copy issued by your institution or provincial authority. It should be submitted with your study permit application to IRCC. Always verify that the details, such as your name, DLI, and attestation number, are accurate before uploading.
Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter
A provincial/territorial attestation letter serves as official proof that you are included in your province or territory’s international student allocation. Whether you’re studying in Ontario, Alberta, or any other region, this letter ensures your application meets federal approval guidelines.
How to Apply for a Provincial Attestation Letter
To apply for a provincial attestation letter, submit your admission documents to your DLI. Once approved, the institution coordinates with the province or territory to secure your PAL. The process may differ slightly between institutions, so check with your admissions office for timelines and next steps.
Ontario Provincial Attestation Letter
The Ontario provincial attestation letter confirms that your study permit application has been counted within Ontario’s cap of 235,000 permits. Issued through Ontario’s Ministry of Colleges and Universities, it ensures compliance with federal regulations while maintaining fair access for international students.
Provincial Attestation Letter Processing Time
Most PALs are processed within a few business days after acceptance and payment of deposits, although time frames may vary by province and intake season. Applying early gives you a better chance of receiving your PAL before the intake deadline.
Provincial Attestation Letter Exception
A provincial attestation letter exception applies to cases such as scholarship recipients, students under humanitarian programs, or those already enrolled in postgraduate programs. Always confirm your eligibility for these exceptions before applying for your study permit.
FAQ
How to Get a Provincial Attestation Letter?
You can get a Provincial Attestation Letter after being accepted into a program at a Designated Learning Institution. Once your offer is confirmed and your deposit is paid, your DLI will submit your details to the provincial authority for attestation. The province then issues the letter directly to your institution or to you. This letter is mandatory for most international students applying for a study permit in 2024 and beyond.
What Is a Provincial Attestation Letter?
A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is an official confirmation from a Canadian province that your study permit application fits within its quota for international students. It validates that your chosen school and program are authorized to host international learners under the national cap. Without it, your study permit application cannot be processed by IRCC.
Do I Need a Provincial Attestation Letter for a Study Permit Extension?
No, students do not need a provincial attestation letter for a study permit extension if they are continuing at the same DLI and level of study. The exemption applies because the student’s initial permit already accounted for their provincial allocation. However, if you’re changing your program or institution, you may need to reapply for a PAL or TAL.
Why PAL and TAL Are Crucial for Canada Study Permits
The PAL and TAL requirements represent a new phase in Canada’s international education system, one that balances opportunity with sustainability. These letters are more than administrative steps; they ensure every student is registered under fair provincial limits and that institutions can provide the quality support international students deserve.
As an international applicant, staying informed about provincial attestation letter requirements helps prevent delays in your study permit process. By applying early and working closely with your Designated Learning Institution, you can secure your place in Canada’s top academic programs.
At IBU, our admissions team ensures that each international student receives personalized assistance to complete their application, from PAL/TAL issuance to visa guidance, making your transition to studying in Canada smooth and stress-free.
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