Most international students will need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province or territory where they plan to study. Unless you are exempt, you must submit this PAL with your study permit application, not afterwards.
You may not need a PAL if you’ve entered Canada and:
- You’re applying for a study permit extension or to restore your status.
- You have a work permit, unless you received it through International Experience Canada.
- You’re a protected person.
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: [email protected].
*The personal information contained in this application will be shared with Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada and British Columbia’s Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills for operational and program evaluation purposes.
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.