Do I need a PAL to apply for my study permit? 

Most international students applying for a study permit will need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), unless they meet one of the exceptions outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

When is a PAL required?

Starting January 22, 2025, a PAL is required for:

• New study permit applications submitted from outside Canada
• Most study permit extensions submitted from inside Canada, such as:
  • Changing your level of study (e.g. undergraduate to graduate)
  • Transferring from another designated learning institution (DLI) or high school to SFU

When is a PAL not required?

You do not need a PAL if you meet one of IRCC’s exemption criteria. Examples include:

• You’re extending your study permit to continue at the same DLI and same level of study
• You’re an exchange student studying at SFU under a formal exchange agreement and not paying tuition directly to SFU
• You’re a minor child applying to study in kindergarten to grade 12
• You’re a protected person in Canada applying for a study permit
• You’re a refugee claimant or person subject to an unenforceable removal order

Need help?

• Review various scenarios on our News and Updates page to determine whether or not you need a PAL for your study permit application.  
• Review IRCC’s PAL exemption list.
• Contact an International Student Advisor, Immigration Specialist at SFU if you’re unsure whether you need a PAL.

This page was last updated on September 9, 2025.