In September 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shared updates to the temporary residence programs, including the study and work permit process for international graduate students. The full announcement is on the IRCC website: Strengthening temporary residence programs for sustainable volumes.
In alignment with the IRCC announcement, a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) will be required for study permit applications as of 2025. Current exceptions remain in effect for the time being. By applying before the PAL requirement comes into effect, there are fewer steps you will need to take to apply for your study permit. All international graduate students who have received an offer to the University of Waterloo are encouraged to apply for their study permit to begin the process as soon as they are able to avoid any delays.
Beginning in 2025, the following changes will impact graduate students:
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) requirement: Students who receive and accept an offer of admission will need to apply for and receive a PAL from the University of Waterloo.
- Study permit extensions: a PAL will be required to extend study permits except for applications to complete an existing program of study (updated exceptions will be posted as soon as it is available).
- International students entering a coursework program will be required to provide a $1,000 deposit as part of the PAL request process to obtain a PAL from the University of Waterloo. This deposit will be applied to your tuition balance and is not an additional fee.
This webpage will be updated with additional information on the process for requesting a PAL as soon as it is available.
Last updated: December 6, 2024