Provincial requirements belong near the start of your application plan. Many study permit applicants need a provincial or territorial attestation letter, while Quebec has its own acceptance certificate process. Exemptions depend on the type of study and your situation. From January 1, 2026, qualifying master’s and doctoral degree programs at public institutions have a federal PAL or TAL exemption. Quebec requirements still need a separate check.
What to plan
- Check the attestation requirement and any applicable exemption.
- Confirm the school’s process for obtaining a PAL or TAL.
- Identify Quebec acceptance requirements where relevant.
- Check validity before an initial application, transfer or reapplication.
The process, step by step.
This is the typical sequence to discuss when agreeing your service. The exact requirements depend on your circumstances and current instructions.
Identify the requirement
Check your study level, institution, destination and application circumstances to determine whether a provincial document or exemption applies.
Follow the issuing process
Use your institution’s attestation process or Quebec’s study selection instructions, supplying the evidence that the relevant authority requires.
Check the issued document
Confirm names, institution details and validity, including whether a previous decision or school change requires a fresh document.
Include it in the permit file
Submit the required attestation or exemption evidence with the study application and retain copies of the provincial decision.
What to prepare
These are starting points for a discussion. The official checklist and your circumstances determine the documents required for an application.
- Letter of acceptance and program details
- PAL or TAL, or evidence of an exemption
- CAQ attestation where required
- Previous permits and application decisions
Your questions, answered.
IRCC requires a new PAL or TAL after an approved or refused application, unless your new application falls within an exemption.
No. A federal PAL or TAL exemption does not automatically remove Quebec’s CAQ requirements. Check both levels of rules.
Check the official guidance
Research checked 13 October 2026. Program rules, intake, fees, and processing times can change. Use the current official instructions before making a decision.