Provincial Attestation Letters Now Being Issued by New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador
Three Canadian provinces have now launched their systems for providing Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs) to international students as part of their Canadian study permit applications.
From January 22, 2024, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) mandates that provinces issue PALs relative to their allocated number of study permits for 2024, as part of the new cap system on study permits.
Joining the initiative most recently are New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador, following in the steps of British Columbia, Quebec, Alberta, and Manitoba. The rest of the provinces and territories are expected to follow suit and start issuing these letters by March 31.
Information regarding the issuance of PALs in Ontario, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and the northern territories of Canada remains pending.
How to Obtain a PAL in New Brunswick
IRCC notes that New Brunswick introduced its PAL system on March 18. International students are encouraged to inquire with their designated learning institution (DLI) for application procedures.
Though procedures may vary slightly across DLIs in New Brunswick, typically, students are required to complete certain steps to apply. For instance, the University of New Brunswick (UNB) instructs accepted international students to ensure a non-refundable tuition deposit is made through their student account, serving as confirmation of their intent to enroll.
Subsequently, UNB will seek a PAL from the province on behalf of the student and will communicate via email once it is ready. The expected processing time is about two weeks, after which students can download their PAL for their study permit application.
How to Obtain a PAL in Newfoundland and Labrador
As of March 19, 2024, Newfoundland and Labrador have also started their PAL system.
Students are advised to reach out to their DLI to start the application process for their PAL. Memorial University in St. John’s, home to the province’s largest international student body, plans to email admitted students to gather necessary details for the attestation letter, beginning with those enrolling in May 2024. More specific details were not provided.
How to Obtain a PAL in Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan has had its PAL system operational since March 13, as per IRCC. Students should contact their respective DLI to apply for their PAL.
Further specifics on the process from Saskatchewan’s major educational institutions were not disclosed.
